Lower exposure limits to diesel exhaust among most protective in North America
Ontario is introducing new rules to improve ventilation in underground mines and lower exposure to harmful diesel exhaust, making it one of the strictest jurisdictions in North America.
Beginning in September, the new exposure limit will be a time-weighted average exposure to elemental carbon of no more than 0.12 milligrams per cubic metre of air. The previous limit was 0.4 milligrams.
The province is also making changes that will allow for the use of track-mounted robots to increase safety in underground mines. Specialized machines with high-definition cameras will be remote controlled by an operator to look for loose rocks, faulty explosives, and other safety hazards.
Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development made the announcement today in Sudbury, Ontario.
“Miners have been the backbone of Ontario’s economy for generations, and we owe it to them and their families to do more to keep them safe,” says McNaughton. “These everyday heroes are critical to the future of our great province and I’m proud that our changes today will save lives.”
McNaughton was joined by the Minister of Mines, George Pirie, who acknowledges improvements in mining are necessary, especially if the province wants to attract workers to the industry during a skilled labour shortage.
“As our government helps companies build more mines, we need to attract the best and brightest to work in this exciting sector,” says Pirie. “These changes send the message that you can find safe, rewarding careers in Ontario’s mining industry.”
Ontario has about 29,000 mine workers, and about 12,000 of them work underground. Advancements in technology, including the use of battery electric powered vehicles, can help improve safety in underground mines.
But some of these technological developments can also create new hazards in the industry. Safety leaders in mining can celebrate the improvements, but shouldn’t ignore the other potential safety implications.
