Krutenko S. Dust formation patterns in coal mines and improving pneumoco-niosis prevention measures with miners

The thesis deals with approaches to research and engineering problem of determining the relationship between various dust concentrations and pneumoconiosis rate with miners as well as improving prevention measures against occupational diseases at coal mines. It has been established that the morbidity rate depends on dust level in mine air, coal output and volatile matter levels. A method to calculate predicted dust concentration values has been developed. Maximum permissible values of dust load on man have been established with relation to job task, type of dust and the concentration of free silicon dioxide. A method has been suggested to calculate residual dust levels in coal winning areas on the basis of coal extraction conditions, particle size of broken coal and average values of dust control efficiency. It has been determined that at present most mines are not able to maintain required dust standards. It is recommended to monitor average shift dust concentrations at working sites underground and introduce calculating and recording individual respiratory dust loads aiming to avoid unacceptable loads. A branch standard on dust control and dust load recording guidelines have been developed. Key words: coal mines, pneumoconiosis rate, dust level, dust load, prediction.