Abstract

Several combustion products of diesel engines are recognized toxins or carcinogens. In a 1988 report, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of the United States classified all diesel emissions as potentially carcinogens. Maintenance of diesel equipment in the confined spaces typical of the mining sector may adversely affect the quality of the air breathed by workers. Monitoring of carbon monoxide levels in diesel exhaust is one way to evaluate emission levels and the need for vehicle maintenance. This research project was undertaken to develop and evaluate a protocol for the routine measurement of carbon monoxide in the diesel exhaust of vehicles used in the mining sector. The results reveal that carbon monoxide levels should be monitored while motors are running under dynamic pressure (running full throttle with the torque converter pressurized). However, this may endanger the health and safety of operators and technicians. The choice of appropriate colorimetric tubes and direct-reading monitors is left to mine workers.