Health Risks at Iron Ore Mines

Iron ore is used to manufacture a variety of necessary products, including medicines, magnets, automobile parts, artistic instruments and cosmetics. However, steel is by far the most significant product that requires iron ore for manufacture. The process of extracting this precious metal is extensive and in some procedures, dangerous. Working in an iron ore mine poses many threats.

Radon Exposure

• The extraction of iron ore requires the drilling and tunneling deep into the Earth's crust, placing human workers at a high risk for radon exposure when placed in these tight spaces for several hours at a time. Several research institutes, including the Academy of Medicine in Singapore and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, have conducted studies that have shown prolonged exposure to radon can lead to several infectious conditions, including lung cancer, asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory problems. Those who have chosen a long life of work in iron ore mining risk their health by doing so.

Mine Collapse

• Aside from the threat of respiratory issues trough radon exposure, iron ore mines also pose serious physical injury possibilities at any time. Because the mines are often built quickly and in tight-working conditions, the chance exists of a mine collapse. Many of the makeshift mines that are built only use one entrance or exit, so even if a mine collapse does not kill the interior workers, it could trap them and prohibit any food and water from reaching their location for days.

Prevention

• While prevention from radon exposure and collapsing of a mine on workers can never be as thorough as desired, several measures can be taken at each mine to improve conditions. New design technologies of mine shaft supports have proven to be far more effective than past-century techniques, minimizing the risk of collapsing. Construction of these mine shafts is often quick, as the mining of iron ore is a high-demand procedure. However, the threat of radon exposure continues once the workers place themselves deep in the caverns, therefore mine locations should provide workers with anti-chemical clothing and masks, health stations and plenty of water.

Treatments

• The best way to stay healthy while working in an iron ore mine is to constantly stay tested and maximize the nutrients your body takes in outside of this area. While radon is used to cure certain types of cancers in the body, prolonged exposure can develop other types of harmful respiratory cancers. Treatment of these radon effects can be extensive, from surgery to chemotherapy.