A NIOSH health-hazard evaluation measured airborne dust, silica, and metals during coal- and copper-slag processing and reported higher exposure levels during copper-slag processing, with both processes posing health risks.
Source: CDC/NIOSH: Evaluation of respiratory concerns at a coal and copper slag processing company ↗Dust entry
Copper-slag processing dust
Mineral and metal-containing dust generated during processing of copper slag and coal slag.
Airborne form
dust
The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.
Health effects
pneumoconiosis concernsilica exposureheavy-metal exposure concernrespiratory diseaselung disease concern
Evidence
Controls
- enclosed slag processing
- local exhaust ventilation
- dust suppression
- exposure monitoring
- respiratory protection program
- medical surveillance