ABSTRACT
Mine worker exposure to excessive levels of respirable dust can lead to the development of Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis or silicosis. Both of these lung diseases can become disabling or fatal, depending upon the levels and duration of exposures. Mine operators have employed numerous dust control technologies in an effort to minimize airborne dust concentrations and worker exposures. Ventilating air is used as a primary control to dilute the dust and remove the dust from the breathing zones of mine workers.
