Damaging Dust: Why are Fine Particles so Dangerous? And How Can We Handle Them?

In 2023, air pollution caused by mining and construction operations remains a primary discussion point for industries across Australia. State Governments are also well aware of the problems, reacting to new information with a raft of legislative reforms.

Much of the attention is focused on fine particles of dust, which cause the most harm.

And a slew of media reports linking poor air quality in regional communities with close proximity to mine sites has stoked the fire. In Western Australia (WA), media reports have centred on various instances of dust mismanagement, including events like monitoring failures and excessive levels of particulate within nearby communities. 

To its credit, Australia’s mining industry responded with renewed energy and a raft of initiatives around suppressing fine dust particles at the source, reducing the potential harm to workers, residents and the environment. 

The impacts of fine particles are now well known, and companies are exploring innovative ways to control the significant hazards.

Long-term exposure to high levels of dust pollution puts an extra load on the body alongside specific impacts on the respiratory system.

In addition, those who live within mining areas affected by high dust pollution face a greater probability of developing lung issues and cardiac-type symptoms. 

Leveraging New Technologies to Control Fine Particles

Global Road Technology (GRT) provides innovative, sustainable, cost-effective mining and construction dust suppression solutions. One of the significant challenges faced in these industries is the problem of fine dust particles.

These are hazardous to health and the source of multiple issues like respiratory problems, reduced visibility, and environmental pollution. In response, GRT has developed a range of products to effectively control fine dust particles and ensure a safe and healthy working environment. 

This is particularly important in mining and construction, which often face elevated risks of dust pollution.

GRT’s dust control products are designed to be environmentally friendly and have been proven effective in reducing dust levels throughout Australia’s heavy industry. The team has explored various techniques to control dust, including soil stabilisation, dust suppression, and erosion control.

• GRT’s soil stabilisation products are designed to improve the structural integrity of the soil, making it less prone to erosion and dust generation.
• Its dust suppression products are designed to control dust particles by making them heavier so they settle down faster.
• Both solutions ensure fine particles do not become airborne and cause respiratory problems.

As a unit, GRT is committed to ensuring a safe and healthy working environment – and communities – by developing innovative and sustainable dust control solutions.

Why Controlling Dust Particles in Mining is Critical.

Any incidence of air pollution has adverse effects on mining communities with the ability to jeopardise the social and environmental licences that mining companies possess. The emission of fine particles also forces governments to tighten legislation further.

You could think of it as a never-ending loop.

GRT continues to believe that the priority should be placed on implementing the most advanced dust suppression products and techniques at the very source of the pollution. It’s why mitigation is such a critical aspect, with the core focus on controlling/eliminating dust by engineering controls at the point of generation.

After all, capturing dust eliminates the hazard.

The GRT approach remains to utilise the latest dust suppression technology – developed in a purpose-built manufacturing facility – with the correct engineering and planning techniques.

Equally important is data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and interconnected devices to monitor the real-time efficacy of products and dust suppression methods. By reducing the immediate danger – and with continued monitoring of the site in real-time – operators can act on any changes in the environmental conditions that may demand a shift in tactics.

If dust control is an issue for your construction, exploration or resource business, check out GRT’s tailored solutions, including our industry-leading SMART Dosing Units.    

Or, if you’d like to talk with an expert, simply contact us!

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