Introduction: Overexposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can lead to the development of silicosis and other respiratory diseases. The mine under study was reported to have the highest number of certified cases of pneumoconiosis in Zambia in 2015, and in 2008, a study revealed that 56% of the RCS samples exceeded 0.05 mg/m3.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMine workers are occupationally exposed to respirable dust, which can cause irreversible lung diseases and controlling exposure concentrations to as low as reasonably practicable is, therefore, essential. To implement exposure reduction strategies and adequately manage exposure to hazardous chemicals, exposure needs to be measured and recorded according to a standard exposure management plan. This study aimed to assess the available respirable dust exposure data measured between 2017 and 2022 in various work areas and job categories at two mining shafts and a concentrator plant of a Zambian copper mine.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjectives: Since the 1920s, Zambia's mining sector has experienced growth, which has increased the number of mine workers employed in the industry. Consequently, the potential for occupational exposure and prevalence of occupational diseases have also increased. Unfortunately, Zambia does not currently have legislative guidelines for workplace air monitoring and compliance.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFInt J Environ Res Public Health
September 2023
Work in the copper mining industry is often associated with exposure to respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica. This exposure has the potential to cause silicosis, an incurable occupational respiratory lung disease. This study aimed at establishing the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, work behavioral practices and compliance with safety standards and workers' exposure to respirable dust.
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