What don't we know about dust? A strategic assessment of gaps in the understanding and management of particulates in the resources sector

Whilst there already exists a substantial body of knowledge on particulate matter and its impacts upon human health, it is also clear that there are major gaps in our understanding. After the 'resurgence' of CWP in Queensland, Australia, much work has been done to improve exposure monitoring and health surveillance in coal miners. As a result of this it has been recognized that it is not adequate to talk about particulate matter in general terms as both size and chemical content can affect the potential adverse consequences of excessive exposure. A broader look is required into inspirable dusts, respirable dusts, fine particles (including diesel emissions) and ultrafine particles and the growing awareness of the contribution of silica to respiratory disease. To achieve these aims, The Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre (MISHC), which is part of the Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) at the University of Queensland has an international cross-disciplinary team undertaking this strategic assessment. Together the researchers will aim to establish the current state of knowledge, gaps, and future opportunities for human exposure and health, monitoring, control effectiveness, non-coal mining, diesel particulate matter, and cumulative impacts.