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Dust entry

Occupational mineral dust exposure

A broad occupational category covering retained mineral particles, including exposures associated with asbestos, crystalline silica, and coal mine dust; the health profile depends on the mineral and particle characteristics.

Airborne form

dustmixed

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

pneumoconiosischronic bronchitischronic airflow limitationpleural fibrosisemphysemacertain cancer concerntuberculosis risk concern

Evidence

WHO reports that occupational exposure to mineral dust is associated with work disability, morbidity, and mortality; it identifies pneumoconiosis as a major outcome and also lists chronic bronchitis, chronic airflow limitation, pleural fibrosis, emphysema, certain cancers, and increased tuberculosis risk. WHO’s guidance focuses on asbestos, crystalline silica, and coal mine dust.

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Overview · 1–4
Occupational exposure to mineral dust is a significant cause of work disability, morbidity and mortality ... Pneumoconiosis ... is one of the major debilitating outcomes ... Other health problems including chronic bronchitis, chronic airflow limitation, pleural fibrosis, emphysema and certain cancers, as well as an increased risk of tuberculosis, are also associated with exposure to mineral dusts.

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