Seasonal evaluation of workers` personal exposure in underground mines

Due to the nature of the underground mining environment, miners frequently face high concentrations of different pollutants. Underground mining is related to several environmental imbalances, including dust, which is recognized as a significant health hazard to mine workers. With a particular focus on mineral dust, lead and silica exposure, this review is intended to determine in which
circumstances occupational exposure occurs during various underground activities. The research was conducted in accordance with the General method for sampling and gravimetric analysis of inhalable and respirable dust, as described in MDHS 14/3, HSE - UK, 2000. Measurements were taken twice a year (summer and winter) to evaluate seasonal differences in occupational exposure. The research
followed guidelines provided by OSHA PELS as well as those for other pollutants. Seasonal exposures show higher dust during summer while concentrations of lead and crystalline silica remained below the permissible exposure limits in most cases.