September 2010
NIOSH Publication Number 2010-168c

Coal dust

Synonyms & Trade Names
Anthracite coal dust, Bituminous coal dust, Lignite coal dust
CAS No.
RTECS No.
GF8281000
DOT ID & Guide
1361 133
 
Conversion
IDLH
N.D.
See: IDLH INDEX
Exposure Limits
NIOSH REL
: TWA 1 mg/m3 [measured according to MSHA method (CPSU)]
TWA 0.9 mg/m3 [measured according to ISO/CEN/ACGIH criteria]
See Appendix C (Coal Dust and Coal Mine Dust)
OSHA PEL
†: TWA 2.4 mg/m3 [respirable, < 5% SiO2]
TWA (10 mg/m3)/(%SiO2 + 2) [respirable, > 5% SiO2]
See Appendix C (Mineral Dusts)
[Note: The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) PEL for respirable coal mine dust with < 5% silica is 2.0 mg/m3, or (10 mg/m3) / (% respirable quartz + 2) for coal dust with > 5% silica.]
Measurement Methods

NIOSH 7500
Physical Description
Dark-brown to black solid dispersed in air.
Properties vary depending upon the specific coal type.
Combustible Solid; slightly explosive when exposed to flame.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
None reported
Exposure Routes
inhalation
Symptoms
Chronic bronchitis, decreased pulmonary function, emphysema
Target Organs
respiratory system
Personal Protection/Sanitation
(See protection codes)
Skin: No recommendation
Eyes: No recommendation
Wash skin: No recommendation
Remove: No recommendation
Change: No recommendation
First Aid
(See procedures)


Breathing: Fresh air
Respirator Recommendations

Not available.

Important additional information about respirator selection

See also: INTRODUCTION   See MEDICAL TESTS: 0053