In recent developments from Western Australia, a case of silicosis has emerged at Australia’s largest gold mine, shedding light on the persistent issue of silica dust exposure within the mining industry.
According to the state’s safety regulator WorkSafe, on-site dust problems, largely stemming from the crushing of silica-containing rock by grinders during the gold extraction process, have been a recurring concern since 2020.
Troy Adams, managing director of Global Road Technology (GRT), has seized upon this case as an opportunity to underscore the critical importance of proactive mine-site dust control measures.
He emphasised that the mining industry should remain vigilant and not become complacent when it comes to safeguarding the health and safety of its workers by addressing particulate pollution hazards.
The issue in this instance lies in the necessity of crushing silica-containing rock to extract precious metals like gold, which forms the core of mining operations.
Consequently, it becomes paramount to ensure that dust levels are effectively managed, preventing the release of dangerous materials into the air.
GRT’s comprehensive suppression program is centred around holistic site-wide solutions, utilising specially developed polymer solutions and on-tool dust extraction methods to arrest particulate pollution at its source.
GRT’s innovative product suite encompasses non-toxic chemical applications for dust suppression, combined with advanced dosing and application techniques.
These solutions position GRT as a leader in the development of infrastructure and process measures aimed at curbing the spread of particulate pollution at its origin
These products are meticulously designed to intercept dust right at its point of generation, spreading them across the tools used in material extraction and the entire activity area. This strategic approach ensures that particles settle collectively on the ground before they can disperse throughout the mine site or into neighbouring communities.
GRT’s commitment to providing ‘whole-of-site’ dust control solutions is evident through its eco-friendly polymer-based products such as GRT: Haul-Loc and GRT: Activate, which seamlessly integrate into autonomous systems, delivering effective dust control while providing valuable data to clients for actionable prevention measures.
These products surpass the effectiveness of traditional water-based methods and contribute to the responsible use of natural resources. GRT’s approach aligns with the highest standards of safety, mitigating dust at its source to minimise worker exposure, where protective clothing and masks can effectively deal with any remaining trace particles.
While the detected case of silicosis in the affected worker offers hope due to early detection, it underscores the inherent danger of silica dust in the mining industry.
Adams stresses that the optimal solution remains preventing particulate pollution from spreading by halting it at its source, making comprehensive dust control strategies a paramount necessity across mining sites nationwide.
