Dust

Dust is recognised as a general nuisance as well as a potential risk to health. Depending on the operation, dust can be generated by moving or stockpiling material, or by traffic.

Dust particles under 10 microns in diameter (PM10) can be retained in the lungs and are associated with lung diseases, including asthma and industry-specific diseases known as pneumoconiosis. In addition, dust particulates may contain potentially toxic substances on their surfaces. For instance, diesel exhaust fume particles may contain hydrocarbons.

How we minimise the health risk

We identify and try to minimise air pollutant emissions and their potential impacts by applying our Air Quality Control Standard which calls for assessment and prioritisation of emission sources and requires installation of emission controls to ensure protection of ambient air quality.

Dust control at our mines has eliminated new cases of "miner's lung". And fume and dust reductions, coupled with personal protection, at our aluminium smelters have virtually eliminated new cases of asthma. 

Our results

• In 2007, a total of 417 dust related complaints were received by our operations much higher than the 87 in 2006. There are currently a number of initiatives underway aimed at reducing dust emissions.