pulmonary disorders
Coal Worker Pneumoconiosis
Prevention of Coal Worker Pneumoconiosis
Preventive measures begin with eliminating or reducing exposure. The most effective primary prevention is implementation of engineering controls to limit respirable mine dust. Despite long-standing regulations, exposures continue to occur in the mining trade, resulting in persistent occurrence of disease, including severe forms. Respiratory masks provide only limited protection and should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive exposure control program. Medical surveillance of current miners can hep identify disease at an earlier stage. 