What is the purpose of using water or other methods to control dust at mining sites?

Using water or other dust control methods at mining sites primarily aims to lessen respiratory hazards associated with airborne dust particles. Dust can contain harmful substances that, when inhaled, pose significant health risks to workers, including respiratory diseases, lung damage, and other serious health issues. By implementing measures such as water spraying or dust suppressants, the amount of dust in the air is significantly reduced, thereby protecting workers' health and ensuring a safer working environment.

While enhancing visibility and preventing environmental damage are also important considerations, the key goal of dust control methods is to mitigate the health hazards that arise from dust inhalation. Improving worker morale can be an indirect benefit of a safer working environment, but it is not the primary purpose of using water or other methods for dust control in mining operations.