Summary

This review takes a look at readily available information relevant to surface air quality management at mines. Topics covered include regulations, permits, and monitoring equipment. A list of software, technical papers, consultants and suppliers related to air quality are also given.

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INTRODUCTION

The quality of the air at the surface of a mine may be affected by dust and other emissions from the production and refining facilities. For example, mercury release from mines is a concern in Nevada. In this technology review, we take a look at readily available information relevant to surface air quality management at mines.

REGULATIONS

The World Bank sets these criteria for concentrations of contaminants, measured at and outside the project property boundary:

• Particulate Matter (<10µm)
  • Annual Arithmetic Mean 100 µg/m³
  • Maximum 24-hour Average 500 µg/m³

• Nitrogen Oxides as NO2
  • Annual Arithmetic Mean 100 µg/m³
  • Maximum 24-hour Average 200 µg/m³

• Sulfur Dioxide
  • Annual Arithmetic Mean 100 µg/m³
  • Maximum 24-hour Average 500 µg/m³

In the United States obey the Clean Air Act (42USC 7401 et seq.) See this EPA site for more information.

California's requirements are spelled out and links provided in this 2007 document: Sakaida & Sons Surface Mine Project.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Air Pollution Control Division has definitive air quality requirements for surface mining operations. They seek to regulate fugitive dust as well as volatile organic compound (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂).

Similar requirements for Wyoming are available at this link.