illnesses from dust 479
Miners can reduce the amount of dust they breathe in
• Wet surfaces before cutting or drilling to prevent dust from rising.
• Spread crushed limestone to prevent silica or coal dust from rising into
the air.
• Cover blasting and grinding areas with a wet blanket or tarp to trap dust.
After blasting or grinding, spray the area with water.
• Let dust settle after blasting and before entering an area.
• Wear protective clothes and equipment. The best mask for miners is a
rubber respirator that fits tightly and has filters for the materials you
work with. Miners should receive training in how to choose, use, and
maintain masks. If no dust mask is available, wear a cloth around your
mouth and nose, and wash it daily. Glasses or goggles will protect your
eyes. (For more information on protective equipment, see Appendix A.)
• Wash hands and face before eating, drinking, or smoking,
and during and after work.
• Wash gear often. Do not shake out dusty bags — this
throws more dust into the air. Wash the bag instead.
If you must shake the bag, make sure the wind
carries dust away from you. Cloth bags trap a
lot of dust — use plastic bags if you can.
Prevent mine dust from entering your home
• Wash after work and before entering
the house.
• Leave dusty work clothes at the mine, or change out of them
before entering your home.
• Clean floors with a damp mop to
remove dust. Sweeping will put dust
in the air.
• If it is dusty outside, keep doors and
windows closed. If your house does not
have doors and windows that close,
hang curtains or large banana leaves
in doors and windows.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012