Mine Dust Control and Air Quality Management Audit Checklist

Comprehensive dust control and air quality management audits should be conducted quarterly, with more frequent assessments (monthly) for high-risk areas or during dry seasons. Continuous monitoring of key air quality parameters should be part of daily operations.

This checklist covers dust suppression systems (water sprays, chemical suppressants), ventilation effectiveness in underground mines, personal protective equipment usage, air quality monitoring networks, fugitive dust management from haul roads and stockpiles, blasting dust control, crushing and conveying dust mitigation, ambient air quality assessment, and community air quality communication programs.

The audit should be led by an occupational hygienist or environmental manager specializing in air quality. The team should include safety officers, ventilation engineers, environmental scientists, and operations supervisors. For comprehensive audits, it may be beneficial to involve external air quality experts or regulatory authorities.

The checklist includes items to evaluate dust control strategies specific to various mining activities and environments, such as open-pit operations, underground mines, and mineral processing plants. It assesses the effectiveness of control measures under different weather conditions and production scenarios, ensuring a comprehensive approach to dust management across the entire mining operation.

Yes, this checklist is designed to be applicable to various types of mining operations, including coal mines, metal ore mines, and quarries, as well as different mineral processing facilities. However, it should be customized to address specific dust challenges associated with different minerals, mining methods, and local environmental conditions.