While there already exists a substantial body of knowledge on particulate matter and its impacts on human health, it is also clear that there are major gaps in our understanding. After the re-identification of coal worker’s pneumoconiosis (CWP) in Queensland, Australia, much work has been done to improve exposure monitoring and health surveillance in coal miners. As a result, it has been recognized that it is not adequate to talk about particulate matter in general terms, as both size and chemical content can affect the potential adverse consequences of excessive exposure. A broader look is required into inhalable dusts, respirable dusts, fine particles (including diesel emissions) and ultrafine particles, and the growing awareness of the contribution of silica to respiratory disease.
