Under what condition can a coal mine worker operate with respirable coal dust above 3 mg/m3?

The correct response pertains to the need for safety controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) in relation to exposure to respirable coal dust. In mining operations, particularly in coal mines, exceeding the threshold of 3 mg/m3 for respirable coal dust can pose significant health risks to workers, including respiratory diseases.

Under Queensland mining law, employers are required to take all reasonable precautions to minimize dust exposure. This includes the implementation of engineering controls to reduce dust generation, administrative controls such as appropriate scheduling of work and breaks, and the provision of suitable PPE, such as respirators.

Only after a thorough review of the dust control measures and ensuring that the necessary PPE is provided can a worker be authorized to operate in conditions where dust levels exceed the established limit. This process ensures that worker safety remains a priority while allowing the mine to continue operating under regulated conditions.

This emphasis on control measures is critical for maintaining a safe working environment and protecting the health of workers from the potentially harmful effects of coal dust exposure, reinforcing the importance of adhering to regulatory standards in the mining sector.