This article was written by Waddah Khair,
Blasting, excavation, and material handling generate significant dust emissions, varying based on site geology and extraction methods. Some operations rely more on explosives, while others use mechanical excavation, but all involve large-scale equipment—excavators, dump trucks, and loaders—contributing to airborne dust. Mist cannons are commonly used for suppression.
Dust particles from drilling and blasting can travel far beyond site boundaries, monitored by regulators. These particles vary in size and impact:
- PM10 (>10µm) – Visible dust, such as limestone, is generally less harmful as the body can filter it. However, silica dust within this category poses health risks.
- PM10 (<10µm) – Invisible to the naked eye, includes cement, iron, and textile dust. These particles settle in the nose or throat, causing respiratory irritation and, with prolonged exposure, conditions like asthma.
- PM2.5 (<2.5µm) – Known as respirable dust, including lead, carbon black, and metallurgic particles. These penetrate deep into the lungs, causing irreversible damage and diseases like silicosis, black lung, and lung cancer.
When airborne, these particles form Total Suspended Particles (TSP); once settled, they become deposited dust. Effective dust control measures include dust suppressant chemicals, water sprinklers, water bags, and geotextiles, ensuring a safer and more compliant work environment.
