Thursday, July 30, 2009
NIOSH: Coal dust leads to emphysema risk among miners
The risk of developing emphysema is "significantly elevated" among coal miners, according to a NIOSH study published in the Aug. 1 issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
According to a study abstract, researchers focused on evaluating the relationship between exposure to respirable coal mine dust, cigarette smoke and other factors on emphysema severity. They found that coal dust retained in the lungs was a "significant predicator" of emphysema severity.
Meanwhile, the Mine Safety and Health Administration earlier this month held a hearing (.pdf file) on a proposed rule that would revise existing requirements to approve sampling devices that monitor miner exposure to respirable coal mine dust. The current requirements, issued in 1972, only permit the approval of one design. The proposed rule change (.pdf file) would establish criteria for monitor approval using technology that allows for a continuous exposure report.