Dust and Respiratory Health Program

Dust and particulates, when inhaled, can lead to a variety of occupational lung diseases and mine dust lung diseases such as silicosis, coal workers' pneumoconiosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and occupational asthma. These conditions not only compromise the affected individuals' quality of life but can also be life-threatening.

The Dust and Respiratory Health Program is committed to the study of dust and particulates and their correlation with occupational lung diseases. This work with dust and other aerosols and their role in respiratory diseases is indispensable for safeguarding worker health and well-being.

Through this research, we gain crucial insights into the hazards posed by these particles, develop effective prevention strategies, establish the science to inform regulations, and adopt new technologies. By prioritising the study of dust and particulates, we pave the way for safer working conditions, minimizing the risk of occupational lung diseases and ensuring the continued health of workers across various industries.

Background

Dust and particulates, when inhaled, can lead to a variety of occupational lung diseases and mine dust lung diseases such as silicosis, coal workers' pneumoconiosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and occupational asthma. These conditions not only compromise the affected individuals' quality of life but can also be life-threatening. By studying these hazards, we can identify the exposures, inform other researchers involved in the mechanisms behind the diseases, and establish effective preventive strategies. This research empowers employers and workers to take necessary precautions, minimize exposure, and safeguard their well-being.

Knowledge about dust and particulates aids in the development and enhancement of prevention and control measures. Researchers can identify the characteristics of different types of dust, enabling the implementation of engineering controls like ventilation systems. Additionally, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, can be employed. Furthermore, work practices can be adjusted to minimize dust generation and exposure. This comprehensive approach helps in reducing the risk of occupational lung diseases and promotes a safer workplace.

The group is also identifying of emerging risks associated with new materials and processes in various industries. As industries evolve, new hazards may arise. By researching these risks, we can stay ahead of the curve and adopt new technologies and control measures to counter these emerging threats. This proactive approach ensures that workers are protected from evolving dangers and enables industries to adapt and maintain high standards of safety.

Program leader

Ms Nikky LaBranche
View Nikky LaBranche's research profile

  • Australian Coal Association Research Program (ACARP) – Funding for ACARP Project C26048 Improving Respirable Coal Dust Exposure Monitoring and Control in the Australian Coal Industry
  • Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) – Sponsor of the Baseline Health Risk Assessment Report
  • SIMTARS (Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station) – Funding collaborator on ACARP C26048
  • Office of Industrial Relations (OIR) – Funding for 2 projects worth $2.4 million
    • University of New South Wales (UNSW) – Collaboration on the OIR project “Physico-chemical characteristics and toxicity of coal mine and artificial stone particulates: Identifying factors critical to the pathogenesis and severity of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis and silicosis”
    • University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) – Collaboration on the OIR project "Physico-chemical characteristics and toxicity of coal mine and artificial stone particulates: Identifying factors critical to the pathogenesis and severity of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis and silicosis"
  • Ernst & Young (EY) - Collaborator on the Baseline Health Risk Assessment Report
  • Virginia Tech - Collaboration with the Sarver group in Mining & Minerals Engineering on Particulate Characterisation
  • Visiting Scholars: