Dust Control Handbook for Industrial Minerals Mining and Processing

Operator Booths/Control RoomsOne of the most effective means of protecting a worker associated with a dust-generatingoperation can be the utilization of a booth/control room that provides filtered air inside theenclosure. Previous research has shown that properly operating filtration systems installed onenclosed compartments can provide over 90 percent reductions in respirable dust exposures[NIOSH 2008]. Another advantage of these booths is that they can be equipped with airconditioningand heating systems to make the work environment more comfortable for theoperator. Figure 7.8 shows an operator's booth overlooking the loadout area in a plant.From a dust control engineering standpoint, the goal is to provide a competent operator's booththat is positively pressurized with filtered air. The positive pressure within the booth preventsdust that may be present outside of the booth from leaking in and exposing the worker.Chapter 9—Operator Booths, Control Rooms, and Enclosed Cabs provides detailed informationregarding the design and operation of filtration/pressurization systems for operatorcompartments.Figure 7.8. Environmentally controlled operator’s booth near loadout area.196 Bulk Loading