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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Evaluation of the potential health effects of occupational exposure to diesel exhaust in underground coal mines

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6712309
Studies of the effects of exposure to diesel exhaust and solvent extracts of diesel exhaust on bacterial/cell cultures, animals, and humans were reviewed in relation to the potential for adverse health effects of exposures in underground coal mines. The composition of diesel exhaust was delineated and areas for additional studies of possible health effects were identified. Studies have demonstrated that some of the components of diesel exhaust cause mutations in microorganisms and cancer in animals. Health effects ranging from eye irritation to respiratory disease in humans have been reported. According to the authors, NIOSH cannot definitively affirm or condemn the use of diesel equipment in underground-mining operations at this time. Exposures should be kept below the Mine Safety and Health Administration standards, or NIOSH recommended exposure limits.
Research Organization:
National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
OSTI ID:
6712309
Report Number(s):
PB-88-247671/XAB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English