JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – A most fundamental human need is to breathe fresh air. Yet, for millions of people working in underground mines across the globe, this is not a given.

Now, members of the international ICMM mining organisation have committed to implementing further measures to protect people working in underground mines against exposure to diesel particulate matter (DPM).

Diesel-powered vehicles and equipment generate airborne DPM emissions, which, with exposure to high concentrations over time, can cause serious health issues, including cancer, ICMM stated in a release to Mining Weekly on Wednesday, October 11.

“Effective management of DPM in underground mines is critical to safeguarding the health of workers. This can be achieved through comprehensive measures including high-grade protective equipment, advanced ventilation systems, the use of low-sulphur fuels, rigorous maintenance practices and the transition to zero-emission equipment,” the organisation outlined. 

To accelerate progress across the industry, a DPM good practice guide has been published to provide a structured framework for companies to lower underground DPM exposure.

The new commitment and guide are said to reflect the latest advancements in understanding of DPM workplace exposure and the effectiveness of control measures.

By mandating the adoption of DPM management programmes across the membership, ICMM aims to bridge existing gaps and drive consistent, effective practices across the industry.

“These measures embody the commitment of every ICMM member to the health and safety of our people and communities towards the goal of zero harm. They will accelerate the changes necessary to safeguard people working on our sites and, I hope, provide the impetus for the widespread adoption of these solutions beyond the ICMM membership,” ICMM president and CEO Rohitesh Dhawan stated.

This new commitment and guide build on the cleaner, safer vehicles initiative (ICSV) launched in 2018, which has driven collaboration between ICMM member companies, original-equipment manufacturers and technology suppliers to develop next-generation mining vehicles and improve existing fleets.

“We’re now anticipating the availability of zero emission haul trucks before 2030 – a shift from the previous expectation of 2040 - reflecting significant progress. One of the areas of focus of this collaboration is on reducing the impact of DPM through advancements in mobile equipment and mine infrastructure.”

ICMM ICSV advisory group chairperson and BHP CE Mike Henry described DPM as a sector-wide health challenge. “It’s pleasing to see members showing leadership and signing onto this important initiative,” he said.

The new commitment aligns with mining’s pursuit of health and safety improvement in its journey towards zero harm. 

ICSV initiative companies are Caterpillar, Cummins, Epiroc, First Mode, Hexagon Mining, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Komatsu, Liebherr and Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology. 

Company members well known in South Africa are African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American, AngloGold Ashanti, Barrick, BHP, Glencore, Gold Fields and Sibanye-Stillwater, with associate members including Minerals Council South Africa, Mining Industry Associations of Southern Africa, International Chromium Development Association, International Manganese Institute, and World Gold Council.