Enclosed cabs are a primary means of reducing the silica dust exposure of equipment operators at surface mines. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health experimentally investigated various factor effects on cab air filtration system performance. The factors investigated were intake filter efficiency, intake air leakage, intake filter loading (filter flow resistance), recirculation filter use, and wind effects on cab particulate penetration. Adding an intake pressurizer fan to the filtration system was also investigated. NIOSH findings and recommendations are detailed.

This handbook was developed to identify available engineering controls that can assist the industry in reducing worker exposure to respirable silica dust. The intent is to identify the "best practices" that are available for controlling respirable dust level in underground and surface metal/nonmetal mining operations. This handbook provides general information on the control technologies along with extensive references.