Characterization and Health Risk Assessment of Airborne Dust Generated in a Highly Mechanized Underground Metalliferous Mine

This paper presents a study on airborne dust concentrations in a mechanized underground metalliferous mine using high-resolution real-time aerosol spectrometers. The study found that despite the lack of visible dust and mining operations near the study locations, the average total airborne dust (TAD) concentrations at two locations A and B were 1170 ± 320 μg/m3 and 796 ± 68 μg/m3, respectively. The study developed cumulative and differential dust concentration profiles, revealing the presence of harmful fine dust particles at both the locations. Moreover, the study revealed that 87.9% of TAD in location A and 99.4% of TAD in location B comprised ≤ 10 μm sized dust particles. In view of health risk assessment, the proportions of alveoli and thoracic dusts were also estimated at the chosen locations. Finer particles (PM2.5) accounted for 18.5–30.3% of TAD in location A and 38.0–40.3% of TAD in location B. Moreover, the model from multiple-path particle dosimetry estimated that 92.7% of inhaled PM2.5 particles deposited in the respiratory tract, with 63.3% of these particles depositing in the head region. This research highlights the potential for long-distance dust transport along ventilation air currents to different mine workings and emphasises the need for effective dust monitoring and control measures to minimise the risk of occupational health risks associated with exposure to mine dust. The study provides valuable information for mine operators, occupational health experts, and researchers to design and implement appropriate dust control strategies to protect the health of miners. © The Institution of Engineers (India) 2024.