Airborne Particles

Solid or liquid microscopic matter suspended in air as a result of mine operations, including both coarse particles and fine respirable fractions. Respirable particles smaller than 10 micrometres (PM10) and particularly fine particles (PM2.5) pose significant inhalation health risks. In underground gold mines, silica-bearing airborne particles create risk of silicosis, requiring engineering controls, respiratory protection, and health surveillance programs.