How to Control Dust in Mine Operations

​Dust control in mining operations is essential for safety and regulatory compliance. Understanding how to control dust effectively can significantly reduce the risks from associated airborne particulates and help your mine operate more efficiently. Here's a detailed look at how to control dust in your mining facility with a few innovative strategies and technologies.

What are the primary sources of dust problems in mines?

Before you can address how to control dust, it's key to understand its primary sources. In mining, dust comes from activities such as blasting, material transport, loading, and unloading. These can all generate significant amounts of particulate matter. Each of these individual challenges requires dust control solutions. 

Underground vs. Above Ground Dust Problems

Under the ground, mining operations rely on ventilation systems to help keep dust levels low. These systems draw in fresh air from the surface and remove stale air, preventing it from accumulating excessive amounts of particulates.

Surface mines, on the other hand, face different issues, such as mine tailings and disturbed soil. Those require dust control methods that keep dust in place and prevent it from becoming airborne.

Soil Stabilization and Its Impact on Dust Control

Soil stabilization is pivotal in dust control, particularly in areas like stockpiles and tailings dams, where fine material is susceptible to wind erosion. Soil stabilizers such as bitumen, lime, cement, and polymers can help bind the soil particles and prevent them from becoming airborne, providing a long-term solution to dust problems. Using these stabilizers improves air quality and reduces the environmental impact of mining operations.

Polymer Dust Suppression Techniques

Advancements in technology have introduced more sophisticated methods to control dust. Polymer products, like Envirotac, can be applied to tailings and haul roads to create a durable, non-erodible surface that significantly reduces dust. This type of product reduces the amount of airborne dust and enhances the longevity and usability of haul roads, which are critical for the operation of heavy vehicles during mining.

Discover How to Control Dust with Envirotac

Effective dust control is crucial for protecting worker health and ensuring environmental compliance. At Environmental Products & Applications, Inc., our Envirotac line of acrylic copolymers is highly effective in stabilizing all soil particles, creating durable, long-lasting roads and surfaces. Learn more about our products today.