State reclamation division reviews respirator and silica safety procedures

The Natural Resources - Reclamation Mining & Safety Division reviewed respirator use and silica dust controls during a safety training segment. Presenters warned that inhaling excessive respirable crystalline silica can cause lung damage or death and explained when respirators are required, how employers must measure exposure, and which engineering and administrative controls are preferred.

Division staff said mine operators are required to determine employee exposure to silica dust and to use engineering controls — including water sprays on haul roads, vacuuming trucks,…