Dust Control Handbook for Industrial Minerals Mining and Processing

Spills of product material are a common occurrence at processing operations and when theyoccur, the initial removal of material is most often performed with a scoop, bobcat, or throughhaving workers using shovels. When this task is performed manually, the appropriate respiratoryprotection must be worn by workers.Once the bulk of this material is removed, or for general housekeeping, it is very effective towash down the facility with water on a regular basis. Ideally for this to work, the design shouldbe incorporated in during construction so that drains are installed and the floor is sloped correctlyto ensure that the water runs toward the drains. Although washing down is very effective, itmust also be noted that this can unintentionally increase respirable dust levels during the hosingprocess. The problem occurs when water strikes piles of accumulated fine material, which cancause dust to be liberated into the air. When washing down is being used as a housekeepingtechnique, it should be done shift by shift, or at least daily, to keep product from accumulating.In addition to washing down, the next most common housekeeping techniques are the use offloor cleaning devices and/or vacuum systems. Although both of these techniques are muchmore costly than washing down, neither typically generate or liberate significant levels of dustduring the cleaning process, as is the case with washing down.When considering floor cleaning options, there are many different manufacturers and companiesthat sell a vast array of different types of floor cleaning units. These units vary from ones that anindividual rides to smaller units that an individual walks behind (Figure 8.5). One area thatshould be closely investigated is the disposal of the contaminated material once it has beencollected. It would be counterproductive if the unit is very efficient during the floor cleaningprocess but contaminates employees when the unit is being cleaned or during disposal of theaccumulated material.Figure 8.5. Various types of floor sweep units used to clean dust-laden floors.In addition, there are many different types of vacuuming units. These can range from highcapacity,in-plant vacuuming systems with multiple collector pickup locations to portable tank-208 Controls for Secondary Sources