INTRODUCTION
Quarrying is the process of extracting valuable stone materials by digging or removing them from quarries, with methods and equipment tailored to the specific purpose of extraction However, mineral exploitation, mining, and processing activities can cause significant environmental damage, including ecological disturbance, destruction of natural flora, pollution of air, land, and water, as well as soil and rock mass instability, landscape degradation, and radiation hazards (Aigbedion & Iyayi, 2007) Growing environmental concerns highlight the negative impacts of quarrying operations, such as blasting vibrations, noise, fly rocks, and dust generation, which affect surrounding communities Dust, a major waste product from quarrying, is the primary contributor to air pollution, with particulate pollution levels influenced by local microclimate, dust particle concentration, size, and chemistry (Hsin-Yi, 2012).
Dong Son district in Thanh Hoa Province is renowned for its rich cultural heritage as the hometown of Dong Son drums and the discovery of Dong Son culture, the ancient Lac Viet civilization The area is also famous for high-quality granite and limestone products used in construction and decoration, significantly contributing to the local economy and providing employment opportunities However, quarrying activities in the region pose environmental challenges, notably dust generation, which impacts human health, the atmosphere, and agriculture To address these concerns, a focused study titled “Dust generation from quarrying activities of Chinh Long Cooperative in Dong Phu commune, Dong Son district” was conducted using weighing methods to assess particulate pollution levels and explore strategies to mitigate negative effects on the community and environment.
STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
G OALS
This study aims to evaluate the environmental and human health impacts of dust generated from quarrying activities in Dong Phu commune, Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa province It highlights the importance of understanding how quarry dust affects local ecosystems and residents' well-being The research also proposes effective solutions to enhance environmental management practices and improve the living conditions of the local community Addressing dust pollution from quarrying is essential for promoting sustainable development and safeguarding public health in the region.
S PECIFIC OBJECTIVES
To achieve these overall goals, the thesis focuses on four main objectives as follows:
(1) Studying current state of granite quarrying and manipulation at Chinh Long Cooperative
- Studying current state of socio-economic and quarry industry in Dong Phu commune and Chinh Long Cooperative;
- Examining the technology and processes used for exploiting and producing granite stones
(2) Investigating sources and concentrations ofdust generated from quarrying and stones fabrication activities at Chinh Long cooperative
- Doing survey on the current status of dust generation from quarrying and stones manipulation at Chinh Long Cooperative and residential area;
Determining main sources of dust dispersion from the production process;
Identifying impact levels of dust to human life and the environment
- Taking dust samples to examining whether dust concentrations are exceeding the permissible exposure limits from quarry activities
Collecting deposited dust samples from the working atmosphere at various sections of manufacturing units and residential area;
Comparing the analysis results for dust deposition with the standard criteria for dust deposition
(3) Investigating environmental management in Hoang Lap village and dust mitigation activities at Chinh Long cooperative
Environmental management in Hoang Lap village (the residential area);
Dust mitigation methods of Chinh Long Cooperative and Hoang Lap village
(4) Providing a basis for solutions to improve efficiency of dust management at the study area.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
S TUDY AREA
Thanh Hoa Province, located in the North Central Coast region of Vietnam, is one of the country's largest provinces, ranking 5th in area with 11,133.4 km² and 3rd in population, with over 3.4 million residents as of 2014 Surrounded by Son La, Hoa Binh, and Ninh Binh provinces to the north, Nghe An to the south, the East Sea with a 102 km coastline to the east, and Laos to the west, Thanh Hoa boasts diverse geographical features The province is home to various ethnic groups including Kinh, Mường, Thái, H'Mông, Dao, Thổ, and Khơ-mú, reflecting its rich cultural diversity Human civilization has existed in Thanh Hoa for approximately 6,000 years, with archaeological excavations revealing the early Đa Bút Culture along the Sông Đáy and Sông Mã rivers, making it one of the earliest sites of ancient Vietnamese history.
In 2014, Vietnam's economy experienced robust growth, with an estimated growth rate of 11.6%, surpassing the planned target of 11.5% and marking an increase from previous years (2012 at 10.3% and 2013 at 11.2%) The GDP per capita reached approximately $1,365 USD, exceeding the target of $1,320 USD, indicating ongoing economic development However, despite these positive indicators, the poverty rate remained high at 25% in 2012, significantly above the national poverty rate of 9.5% in 2010, reflecting persistent socio-economic disparities.
2014) Therefore, although Thanh Hoa is the one of the developing province in national economic, it still has the high rate of poverty and low standard living for residents.
Dong Phu commune, Dong Son district
Dong Phu commune in Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa province, was selected as the study area due to its central role in granite production within the district As one of the three key communes involved in the granite supply chain, it hosts the largest quarrying factory in the region This concentrated industrial activity suggests that dust generation from quarrying processes in Dong Phu is likely higher compared to other areas.
Dong Phu, situated in the southern part of Dong Son district, covers an area of 5.67 km² and is bordered by Dong Quang to the east, Dong Nam to the south, Dong Van to the north, and Dong Thang and Dong Tien in Trieu Son district The region features a relatively flat topography with gentle slopes running from northwest to southeast, interspersed with mountains, hills, and plains, making it an ideal location for agricultural development and rural living.
Dong Phu commune experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and significant annual rainfall Summers are hot and rainy, while winters are cooler and dry Between 2003 and 2014, the average annual temperature ranged from 21.2°C to 23.7°C, and annual precipitation varied from 2001.4 mm to 2249.5 mm, reflecting the region’s distinct seasonal weather patterns.
Dong Phu commune, as of 2015, consisted of 1,125 households with a total population of 4,348 residents, resulting in a population density of 765 people per square kilometer Between 1999 and 2015, the population experienced steady growth at an average rate of 0.9% annually The majority of residents in the commune are of the Kinh ethnic group, according to the Thanh Hoa Statistical Yearbook 2015.
Approximately 55% of the population is engaged in agricultural activities, while 25% participate in silviculture, 10% in industry and construction, and another 10% in trade and services The average GDP per person is around 25 million VND, primarily derived from rice farming, livestock, and granite production for construction and furniture Notably, granite processing accounts for 45% of the total industrial revenue through exports to countries like China and Laos The chosen study area is particularly significant because it hosts the largest concentration of production facilities in the region.
Chinh Long Cooperative
This cooperative, established in 2004 and situated near Vang Mountain, is the focus of this study due to its significant granite production The main workshop, covering 3 hectares in Dong Phu commune's northwest of Hoang Lap village, processes granite quarried from nearby mountains, approximately 300 meters away, situated about 1.5 km from residential areas The facility extracts granite, a common felsic intrusive igneous rock characterized by a granular and coarse-grained texture, which can be white, pink, or gray depending on mineral composition Derived from the Latin "granum," meaning grain, granite contains at least 20% quartz and up to 65% alkali feldspar, making it a durable, massive, and tough stone widely used in construction and human history.
Vang Mountain in Dong Son District is a significant granite reserve, with Chinh Long Cooperative producing approximately 4,000 tons annually Its granite stones are primarily used in construction and home decoration projects across Thanh Hoa Province and northern Vietnam Despite its production capacity, the cooperative faces stiff competition from other enterprises in Dong Son District, which hinders efforts to improve product quality and increase sales.
The workshop currently employs 93 workers, including 80 males and 13 females, all originating from Dong Phu commune, with ages ranging from 20 to 45 years old The owner actively participates in production activities while overseeing and managing the workshop operations However, labor safety measures are still inadequate, with primitive harm reduction methods in place, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols to ensure worker well-being.
The workshop is situated away from residential areas but is conveniently placed next to rice fields and grazing lands for cattle, including cows, goats, and buffaloes, serving the local community engaged in agricultural production.
Figure 3.3: Chinh Long Cooperative (from Google map- satellite)
R ESEARCH METHODOLOGY
A comprehensive walk-through survey was conducted in the study area to identify the primary sources and processes responsible for dust emissions Based on these observations, specific monitoring locations were selected for accurate data collection Air quality monitoring was performed during full plant operation to capture representative dust levels, with samples collected from each active working area to ensure thorough assessment of dust emissions.
Figure 3.4 illustrates the comprehensive process of conducting the analysis Data on the impact of quarrying activities on local communities was gathered between July and August 2016 The data collection employed two primary methods to ensure thorough and accurate results.
- The data is collected by dust level measurement
- Data was collected from health records in the hospital In addition, social survey was also conducted by questionnaires in the commune
The workshop of Chinh Long Cooperative
3.2.1 Data collection by social survey
A structured questionnaire was utilized to gather data from a targeted segment of the population, enabling a quantitative assessment of how quarrying activities impact local communities The questionnaire consisted of four main sections collaboratively designed to explore various aspects of the communities' experiences and perceptions regarding quarrying operations This approach ensures comprehensive insights into the social and economic effects of quarrying, supporting data-driven decisions for sustainable development.
The 2016 study provides comprehensive background information on quarrying processes, highlighting their environmental implications and associated health concerns It emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding air quality issues among workers and farmers in the study area The research focuses on assessing the perception levels of local workers and farmers, shedding light on how quarrying activities impact both environmental conditions and community health.
Households for the study were selected through a reconnaissance process to ensure representative sampling The household head was identified as the target respondent for data collection Due to the extensive number of questions, interviews were conducted with clusters of three to five respondents simultaneously, optimizing efficiency and accuracy in data gathering.
Determining the stakeholders have been influenced by the dust
Collecting the secondary information from local authorities and hospital
Framework of factors affects dust deposition
Analyzing the current situation at study area and compare with national standards on dust accumulation
The questionnaire was specifically designed to collect information from the local hospital, which is primarily patronized by residents of the study area Key data on outpatient morbidity was gathered to analyze the potential health impacts of quarrying activities on the local community This data collection aimed to assess the relationship between quarrying operations and the health issues experienced by the residents.
The questionnaire forms are described in details in the appendix B
A pre-test was conducted with three cooperative workers, one local farmer, and one nearby household to identify and minimize errors in data collection, ensuring higher accuracy Following the pilot, interviewees provided feedback on the survey and data collection process during a debriefing session to address potential misunderstandings caused by ambiguous wording or question structure This assessment aimed to improve clarity, reduce confusion, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the questionnaire and survey management.
The questionnaire was then revised by mentor before applying for the study
The survey was conducted by interviewing the owner of the cooperative, 93 workers, 15 farmers, and 20 households in the village The interviewees were selected randomly
The research employed face-to-face (direct contact) surveys, enabling researchers to ask more comprehensive and detailed questions This method facilitates in-depth data collection through longer, open-ended, and technically complex questions, ensuring a thorough understanding of respondents' insights.
The surveys were carried out from 15 th July to 23 rd August
The thesis conducted investigation and field surveys at Chinh Long Cooperative, Dong Phu commune, Dong Phu district, Thanh Hoa province The field surveys were carried out to:
- Directly survey the research area, figure out stone exploitation and production process, and particularly focus on some stages which tend to generate dust;
- Observe and analyze some factors that affect differentlevels of dispersion of dust from the quarrying sector and manufacturing workshop;
- Investigate the steps of dispersingparticulates into the ambient air
This study assesses the generation and dispersion of particulates from quarrying activities using dust deposition methods To ensure accurate results, proper preparation of sampling equipment and tools is essential Before collecting samples, it is important to understand the concepts of dust (particulates) and the principles of dust deposition for reliable data collection.
To take samples and maintain deposited dust, the study used sampling tools such as dust containers, sticky material, and cling wrap
The containers which were used to contain deposited dust are porcelain dishes and a cling wrap cover (Figure 3.6)
Preparing sampling containers: Vaseline with no more than 1cm thickness was hold in a container and dried at 100 o C for 2 hours Dried Vaseline was sealed for later use
Sampling dishes were systematically numbered, thoroughly washed, and dried at 100°C for 2 hours to ensure cleanliness and moisture removal After drying, each dish was weighed precisely using a balance with 0.1 mg accuracy, and both the dish numbers and weights were carefully recorded A piece of filter paper coated with a dried sample was then placed on each dish, with a standardized volume of 50 mg per dish to ensure consistent sample application Sampling locations were chosen strategically to obtain representative and reliable data for analysis.
The study focused on researching and sampling at quarry mine in Vang Mountain, the Chinh Long Cooperative workshop and Hoang Lap village – the residential area near the workshop
At each location mentioned above, five samples were distributed follow ing the plot described in figure 3.7
Figure 3.7: Establish the plot to measure the dust accumulation
Each 1000m² plot was carefully sampled in open areas free from buildings or trees Four samples were systematically collected from the four corners of each plot, with an additional sample placed randomly within the plot to ensure comprehensive coverage The quarry and workshop sections were situated near the drilling, cutting, and polishing zones, highlighting their proximity to operational activities A village section located within the factory premises, near transportation routes and product loading areas, was selected as a control reference All samples were taken at a consistent distance of 1.5 meters from the source to standardize comparisons across sites.
The experiment started from 30 th June until 19 th September Samples were taken from 7 am of one day until 7 am in the next day
Tools and methods used for sampling follows the standard TCVN 5498: 1995Air quality – Weighing method for determination of atmospheric dust deposit
- Necessary tools for sampling and samples preservation: measurement dish, cling wrap, measurering tape, identical stands with the height of them are
1.5m in horizontal surface, correction pen, pencil/pen, notebook, GPS device, camera, …
- When doing the sampling, the author needs to ensure certain requirements: + The sample container needs to be clean and weigh carefully before experiment
+ Do not disturb the 14easurem surface
+ Samples were taken should have highly representative ability
Sampling was conducted using measuring dishes placed on identical stands at a height of 1.5 meters on a horizontal surface, with sampling points arranged in open, ventilated areas A total of five samples were collected at each location, with samples spaced evenly in designated empty spaces Each sample was measured over a 24-hour period, then covered with cling wrap and transported to the laboratory for weighing The experiment was performed only in dry weather conditions, and contact with the Vaseline surface was strictly prohibited during the measurement process to ensure accuracy.
Depend on Standard TCVN 5498: 1995, to measure the dust accumulation in the dish, need to weigh the dust in the sample
- Manage the sample: separate the filter paper from measuring dish Put the filter papers include Vaseline and dust into the laboratory oven to dry at
400 o C in two hours and do not let them fall down Weigh the dust deposition collected Record the results
- Calculation: the amount of dust deposition is calculated by formula:
D: A measure of the average mass of particles settling on a unit area on a daily basis
M1: Weight of sample dried constant weight before measure (mg) m2: Weight of sample dried constant weight after measure (mg) t: time of measurement (24 hours-one day)
Dry dust deposition at one time is the average value of the calculated amount of dust settles on the sample, after exclude errors
To determine the total amount of dust deposition, the monthly dust deposition (Dt) is calculated based on the daily dust settlement measurements This involves summing the daily dust deposits to obtain an overall monthly total, expressed in grams per square meter per month (g/m²·month) Accurate assessment of dust deposition helps in understanding environmental pollutant accumulation over time.
After analyzing all samples, the result will be show in the table 3.1
Table 3.1 Data form of the results of calculating the dust level in the study area
No Time Dust level in the sampling sites (mg/m 2 day)
Transportation and loading product section
Dust deposition standards are limited internationally, with few widely adopted regulations While Vietnam has methods for measuring dust levels, there are no established standards specifically for dust deposition Table 3.2 outlines some international standards related to dust measurement and deposition, illustrating the global variability in regulatory approaches.
Table 3.2: Some Country Impact Assessment Criteria – Deposited Dust
1 NSW EPA Annual 4 (maximum total) 133*
4 (as an increase above background concentrations)
4 UK „unofficial‟ nuisance Annual mean
(Unacceptable reduction in air quality)
* Converted between g/m 2 day and g/m 2 month for comparison with NSW EPA
Standard assuming a multiplication factor of 30(i.e 30 days per month)
The South African National Standards (SABS TC 146 SANS 1929:2018) establish a comprehensive four-band scale for evaluating dust deposition This standard specifies target, action, and alert thresholds for ambient dust levels, as detailed in Table 3.3, ensuring consistent monitoring and effective management of dust deposition in various environments.
Table 3.3: Scale Evaluation Criteria – Deposited Dust
Dust fall rate, D (mg/m 2 day, 30-day average)
1 Residential D < 600 Permissible for residential and light commercial
2 Industrial D ≤ 1,200 Permissible for heavy commercial and industrial
3 Action 1,200 < D ≤ 2400 Requires investigation and remediation if two sequential months lie in this band, or more than three occur in a year
4 Alert D > 2,400 Immediate action and remediation required following the first incidence of the dust fall rate being exceeded Incident report to be submitted to the relevant authority
(Source:SANS 1929; 2011 Four-band Scale Evaluation Criteria – Deposited
Table 3.4: Target, Action and Alert Thresholds – Deposited Dust
Permitted frequency of exceeding dust fall rate
600 30 days Three within any year, no two sequential months
1,200 30 days Three within any year, not sequential months
2,400 30 days None First incidence of dust fall rate being exceeded requires remediation and compulsory report to the relevant authorities
(Source:SANS 1929; 2011 Target, Action and Alert Thresholds – Deposited
STUDY RESULTS
C URRENT STATE OF GRANITE QUARRYING AND MANIPULATION AT D ONG
4.1.1 Current state of quarrying industry at Dong Phu commune
People living in Dong Phu commune primarily engage in agricultural production, with quarrying industry serving as an additional source of income Due to higher wages and greater profit margins, many locals have taken quarry work as their main livelihood Notably, granite processing accounts for 45% of the commune's industrial revenue, exporting over 50,000 tons of granite stones annually to countries like China and Laos, significantly contributing to local economic growth.
The quarry industry currently faces numerous restrictions, with many facilities operating outside of approved design plans Frequent issues include neglecting proper maintenance and inspection of equipment, as well as overloading transportation routes Ongoing sovereignty disputes over quarry ownership and lack of proper licensing further complicate the industry's regulation Additionally, most facilities lack trained personnel to adhere to prescribed mining procedures, while local governments often overlook these irregularities As a result, these issues have persisted over time without satisfactory resolution, impacting the sustainable development of the quarry sector.
Occupational safety in mining areas has been neglected for a long time, with workers operating in hazardous conditions without proper protective equipment Many quarry laborers work under oral agreements with no formal contracts or insurance, leaving them vulnerable in case of accidents Even when long-term employment contracts are in place, owners often provide only limited social insurance and healthcare to reduce costs, compromising workers' rights Most owners fail to strictly adhere to labor laws or prioritize providing safe working conditions and social protections Due to economic pressures and the need for employment, workers tend to focus solely on income, neglecting their rights and safety concerns.
Environmental issues in the quarrying sector remain largely overlooked, with mining activities and processing procedures continuing to cause significant pollution Some facilities operate stone manufacturing within residential areas, adversely affecting local communities There is a lack of effective measures to reduce environmental pollution, compounded by low professionalism in quarrying and processing practices, which often rely on outdated machinery This situation persists due to poor collaboration between functional agencies and local authorities in resource management, inspection, and enforcement of penalties for violations.
4.1.2 Technology and process for granite stones exploitation and production
Figure 4.1 Process to exploit and produce granite stones
Finding an optimal deposit of material
Drilling the stones Transportating to facility
Cutting to smaller slabs Polishing the product
The quarrying process begins with locating an ideal deposit that offers the desired color, pattern, and composition for high-quality slabs Once identified, the site is carefully prepared by removing the overlying soil layer and non-use stones to access the extraction stones This strategic approach ensures the procurement of the perfect raw material for quality stone fabrication.
Once the quarry manager determines the extraction strategy, drilling begins by removing a large “bench wall” of rock This bench wall is cut using dynamite, which crushes the stone into manageable blocks These blocks are then drilled from the bench wall, typically resulting in uniformly sized pieces due to the specifications of processing equipment After extraction, the blocks are transported to the processing facility for further refinement.
Once stones arrive at the processing facility, they are cut into smaller, manageable pieces using saws, with a gang saw acting like a giant bread slicer featuring adjustable blades for precise slab thickness The gang saw can cut an entire stone block into slabs simultaneously, but for more delicate products, a diamond wire saw is used to gently slice one slab at a time, minimizing damage After cutting, slabs are transferred individually to the polishing line, a conveyor system where they pass under polishing heads and progressively undergo finer abrasive treatments, similar to sanding wood During processing, granite slabs may receive a resin coating to fill pits and micro fissures, enhancing surface finish and ease of cleaning; excess resin is removed through additional polishing For materials intended to be honed rather than polished, the process halts at a lower grit abrasive Finally, the slabs undergo quality inspection, are carefully packaged, and shipped, with the facility typically producing 3,500 to 4,000 tons of stone products annually.
4.2 Sources and concentrations of dust generated from quarrying and stones fabrication activities at Chinh Long cooperative
4.2.1 Sources of dust generated from quarry activities at Chinh Long Cooperative
There are three main sources of dust from quarrying process such as: quarrying stage, stone cutting and polishing, and transportation
Dust is the primary emission during quarrying and stone fabrication, mainly generated from cutting, polishing, and transportation activities Tiny particles measuring 0.05-0.1mm are released into the atmosphere during stone processing, contributing to air pollution Additionally, the transportation of raw materials from the quarry to the workshop significantly adds to airborne dust levels, impacting environmental quality.
Dust deposition occurs on nearly all surfaces within the cooperative's workshop, especially in the drilling, cutting, and polishing sections The dust generated during these manufacturing processes, combined with particulates from transportation activities, are dispersed into the surrounding environment by wind Observations indicate that the primary source of dust reaching nearby residential areas is transportation-related emissions Implementing effective dust control measures in these key areas can significantly reduce environmental and health impacts.
The residential area is located far from the workshop, reducing the likelihood of dust from processing activities affecting most households However, workers directly involved in workshop operations and local farmers with their fields and livestock are at risk of dust exposure Additionally, dust generated from transportation activities can impact a large surrounding area, including households in the study region.
4.2.2 Impact of dust generation to society
A survey analyzing the impact of particulate pollution revealed that the most significant effect from quarrying and processing dust is on human health Health records from the local medical center indicate a noticeable increase in dust-related diseases within the community, which is likely linked to the high concentration of particulate matter produced by quarrying activities The poor health status of residents, many of whom are engaged in farming or work at the quarries, underscores the health risks associated with quarrying operations Additionally, data shows that quarry workers exhibit even worse health conditions compared to the general population, highlighting occupational exposure concerns.
Figure 4.2 Past and current health status of workers
Prior to working in the quarry industry, all interviewees reported having very good or excellent health However, there has been a significant increase in the percentage of workers suffering from dust-related diseases after more than seven years of employment Dust clouds in the work environment substantially reduce visibility and deposited dust can lead to slipping hazards Consequently, dust exposure elevates the risk of workplace accidents among quarry workers.
Figure 4.3: Percentage of interviewees suffering from dust related diseases before and during quarrying
According to interviewees, dust may negatively impact agricultural productivity by affecting key plant processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration, although the exact effects are not fully clear In this village, households mainly cultivate rice and raise livestock like cows, goats, and buffalo for meat and plowing, but rice yields are lower compared to other regions Livestock are also more vulnerable to respiratory diseases caused by dust exposure Dust deposition can cause visible injury symptoms in plants and generally lead to decreased agricultural output Additionally, dust impacts plant community structures by altering species composition and ecosystem dynamics, thereby affecting overall regional productivity.
Livestock health is negatively impacted by dust, leading to respiratory and skin diseases similar to those in humans Many households have reported issues with dust accumulating inside their homes, despite existing measures to reduce dust exposure However, current protective methods, such as masks and protective clothing, are insufficient to fully eliminate dust risks A lack of awareness about the importance of long-term protection contributes to a rising prevalence of dust-related health problems among residents Additionally, many people do not have a true understanding of how dust affects their health, increasing the need for improved education and preventive measures.
Many opinions remain undecided due to a lack of guidance and education on this issue Without long-term solutions, this problem has the potential to harm society as a whole Addressing this situation requires effective instruction and sustainable strategies to prevent long-term societal damage.
4.2.3 Results of dust deposited samples
To identify the scales of dust spread to the surrounding area, the research conducted sampling at different locations The analyzed results are presented on table in Appendix D and figure 4.4
4.2.3.1 Experiment results from daily measurement
Figure 4.4 Dust deposition results and the NSW EPA standard
Basing on the graph, we can see that the cutting and polishing sections are the sources that generate the highest concentration of dust Drilling section is the
C URRENT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND DUST MITIGATION
4.3 Current environmental management and dust mitigation activities at Chinh Long Cooperative
Currently, the local government does not have plans to support environmental monitoring or conduct research to reduce harmful dust impacts Instead, they focus on encouraging residents to plant more trees and actively water surfaces to minimize airborne dust and maintain household cleanliness The government also provides legal guidelines to promote these environmentally friendly practices.
- Decree No 12/2016/NĐ-CĐ- about the plans of the cost for protection environment in mining sites
- Resolution No 2664/2012/QĐ-UBND: about the plans of the cost for protection environment in mining sites of Thanh Hoa Provinces
- Resolution No 674/2010/QĐ-UBND: about the plan of the protection environment in rural area and industry area
The owner recognizes the severity of environmental pollution caused by stone production but currently lacks a specific solution to address the issue As the scale of production and dust volume increase, existing measures may become insufficient to effectively control pollution Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustainable stone production and environmental protection.
Table 4.2: Observation on dust control
Effectiveness of applied control (tick appropriate box)
Emissions visible within site boundary only
Quarry activities, include drill and cut by using dynamite
Using water spray into the air
X the air and using ventilation ducts
In workshop, quarry site and village
Using water spray into the air, keep the vehicles clean and plant the trees
Table 4.3 indicates that water spray is the primary method used to reduce dust dispersion in quarrying operations The lack of capital investment limits the implementation of advanced dust control technologies, making water injection the only feasible solution However, relying solely on water spray is insufficient to effectively lower dust levels in the surrounding environment If this issue persists, it could pose significant health risks to humans and negatively impact other activities due to airborne dust from the quarrying industry.
P ROPOSING SOLUTIONS TO IMPROVING EFFICIENCY OF DUST
4.4.1 Solutions for Chinh Long cooprative a Technical methods
Keep dust does not spread into the air by mechanization and automation, so that workers are not exposed to dust This is the most basic method
Rough, electrostatically charged, or adhesive residue-covered glass surfaces tend to accumulate more dust from the air compared to smooth surfaces Utilizing this property can help create surfaces that attract dust, thereby reducing airborne dust emissions and improving indoor air quality Maintaining or designing sticky surfaces can be an effective strategy for controlling dust buildup in various environments.
Use the small water spray during product manufacturing to increase humidity and dust accumulate
Increase number of the vacuum cleaner on the spot and renovate the ventilation system to collect the dust
To prevent dust inhalation and contact, wear appropriate protective clothing such as tight-fitting cotton clothes, masks, or dust masks based on local conditions, and use rubber gloves Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene by frequently and thoroughly cleansing affected areas, avoiding eating, smoking, or talking at work, and bathing regularly Always change into clean clothes after work to minimize dust entry and ensure safety.
Periodic medical examinations are conducted at least twice a year for each production facility to facilitate early detection of lung diseases If an employee is diagnosed with a related condition, their work placement is adjusted based on their health status, including the possibility of reassignment or dismissal to ensure safety and well-being.
Rations for workers in dusty places need more protein, more vitamins, especially vitamin C, by eating plenty of green vegetables, fresh fruit
Well organized resting place conditions for workers exposed to the dust
The workshop site should be situated within an interior area surrounded by fixed vegetation, serving as a natural barrier to emissions from the quarry Relocating residents in the vicinity of the quarry is essential to minimize their exposure to harmful emissions generated by quarry activities (Bada, 2013) Proper site selection and environmental protection measures are critical for sustainable quarry operations and community health.
Ficus carica is an effective natural method for reducing dust pollution in the environment Research indicates that planting Ficus carica in dusty areas can significantly control particulate matter, thereby mitigating potential health hazards According to Yunis et al (2013), embracing Ficus carica plantations in polluted zones can play a crucial role in improving air quality and promoting public health.
4.4.2 For the local government and environmental managers
Dust in production can lead to significant negative effects, making dust control a critical safety and health issue While it might seem like a straightforward technical challenge that can be addressed with ventilation and dust suppression equipment, modern occupational health emphasizes risk management Implementing comprehensive risk management practices is essential for ensuring worker safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection Industry recognizes that proactively analyzing and planning for health, safety, and environmental risks is not only responsible but also economically beneficial, comparable to efforts to improve quality and productivity.
The approach drawn from quality management, as developed in the last decades in many companies and often based on the ISO 9000 series (ISO,
1987), uses the Deming Cycle, which is a model with four steps, representing a feedback loop, as follows:
The "Adjust" approach serves as the foundation for identifying necessary actions to resolve quality issues A related method is the risk assessment and control cycle, which is used to address occupational safety, health, and environmental concerns during plant operations or the redesign of facilities and production lines (Hale, 1985; Hale et al., 1997).
Several models have been suggested to specify and classify the elements required for sound risk management The management method must satisfy these following conditions:
● Undertakes risk assessments at appropriate intervals
● Obtains and complies with permits for prescribed processes/installations
– „measures‟ to address the risks (prevent, control, contain)
– in „monitoring‟ to inform site management when there is potentially a problem
● Has formally documented (controlled) and readily accessible dust/particulate management and incident response procedures
Effective dust management relies on comprehensive staff training, open communication with stakeholders, and regular process reviews alongside formal audits According to the "Good Practice Guide for Assessing and Managing the Environmental Effects of Dust Emissions" by the New Zealand Ministry of Environment, controlling dust emissions involves managing road surfaces, vehicle operations, material stockpiles, and other handling activities Implementing wind protection measures, installing fixed dust control equipment, and utilizing mobile abrasive blasting are essential strategies Ultimately, successful dust mitigation depends on strong site management and ensuring that these control activities are consistently applied and maintained.
Staff responsible for implementing the plan should be clearly identified The plan should include coverage of the following matters
• What has to be done and why
• Who has to do it and/or see that it is done
• How it will be done
• How these outcomes will be monitored
The contents of the plan should also be subject to regular review.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
D ISCUSSION
The thesis employs dry dust deposition measurement to assess dust levels in the area, but this method primarily captures larger, settled particles, overlooking smaller airborne particles that are dispersed by wind or deposited after rain As a result, the data do not fully represent the total dust produced, especially since only a limited number of samples are analyzed and dust component analysis is not performed due to methodological limitations Additionally, this method cannot be applied in covered areas, as results are highly dependent on sample handling and susceptible to external influences, leading to potential errors that are difficult to quantify Consequently, this approach is not suitable for comprehensive particulate emissions assessment across the study area and cannot support health risk assessments, serving only as a reference In Vietnam, this method lacks specific evaluation standards; international standards, such as those from Australia, are sometimes referenced, but assessment criteria vary depending on country-specific practical conditions.
Local residents are eager to participate in developing dust mitigation systems at the quarry site due to the harmful effects of dust generation, showing increased awareness of self-protection However, their primary concern remains lack of government support, as they lack resources and approval to implement these systems The government attributes the challenge to insufficient cooperation and full compliance from the local community, with conflicts of interest hindering environmental protection efforts To effectively address dust pollution, stakeholders must collaborate and foster reconciliation, creating a solid foundation to implement sustainable solutions that safeguard both human health and the environment.
C ONCLUSION
Granite stones offer significant economic potential for the region, driving high economic efficiency The growth of workshops and companies specializing in granite has improved living standards for local residents This development has created new employment opportunities and fostered overall economic and social progress within the commune.
Dust levels recorded during plant operations indicate that the quarry site is the primary source of dust affecting the surrounding community The study shows that the entire industrial area, along with a small portion of the dumpsite, open land, and residential areas, fall within the non-permissible dust emission category During stone fabrication processes, dust levels increase significantly when stones are manipulated into products, contributing to air pollution Dust pollution is not limited to the quarry and fabrication areas but also occurs during transportation This airborne dust has a devastating impact on the atmospheric environment, posing health risks and negatively affecting the social life of nearby communities.
Despite dust levels remaining within some international permitted standards, industrial areas—especially residential zones—pose health risks to local workers who lack proper protective measures and awareness This exposure leads to deteriorating health conditions among workers, including increased incidence of dust-related respiratory diseases such as pneumonia The impact extends beyond workers to residents and agricultural communities, with insufficient government management failing to effectively reduce the harmful effects on human health and the environment.
A sustainable quarry industry requires effective dust control strategies to protect human health and the environment Developing comprehensive management plans based on control factors and dust dispersion data is essential for minimizing dust levels Implementing these strategies helps reduce airborne dust, thereby mitigating negative impacts and promoting environmentally responsible quarry operations.
L IMITATION
Because the project is limited in time, economic and research experience so it still has some shortcomings as follow:
- The numbers of samples are little From that, analyzing result only reflect partly the current status of dust in the study area
- Do not have enough tools and equipment for more in-depth research on this issue
1 Department of Industry and Trade in Thanh Hoa, Final report in 2003;
2 Department of Industry and Trade in Thanh Hoa, Final Report period 2010-2014;
3 Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Report in 2012;
4 Statistical Yearbook in Thanh Hoa, 2014 and 2015
1 Allam M E., Bakhoum E S and Garas G L.(2014) Re-use of granite sludge in producing green concrete ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Vol 9, No 12, December 2014
2 Aigbedion, I N and Iyayi, S E (2007) Environmental effect of mineral exploitation in Nigeria International Journal of Physical Sciences, Vol 2 (2), pp 033-038
3 Babatunde Saheed Bada, Kofoworola Amudat Olatunde & Oluwafunmilayo Abidemi Akande (2013) Air quality assessment in the vicinity of quarry site Environment and Natural Resources Research; Vol 3, No 2; 2013
4 Farmer Andrew M (1991) The effects of dust on vegetation - a review Environmental Pollution 79 (1993) 63-75
5 Hale A (1985) The human paradox in technology and safety Inaugural lecture, Safety Science Group, Delft University of Technology
6 Hale A, Heming B, Carthy J, Kirwan B (1997) Modelling of safety management systems Safety Science 26(1/2):121-140
7 Hsin-Yi, C (2012) The impact of quarrying Retrieved December 14,
2012, from www.sustainablefloors.co.uk
8 U Younis, T Bokhari, M Raza Shah and Seema Mahmood and S Malik (2013) Dust interception capacity and alteration of various biometric and biochemical attributes in cultivated population of Ficus Carica L IOSR Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences (Volume
9 Vallack, H W & Shillito, D E (1998), “Suggested guidelines for deposited ambient dust”, Atmospheric Environment, Vol.32
1 Airborne Particulate Matter in the United Kingdom (1996).Third Report of the Quality Urban Air Review group
2 DEC (2005) Approved Methods for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in New South Wales Department of Environment and Conservation: Sydney
3 Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (2002) Determination and Evaluation of Ambient Air Quality - Manual of Ambient Air Monitoring in Germany.Hazard Prevention and Control in the Work Environment: Airborne Dust of WHO
4 ISO (1987) International Standard 9001: Quality management - Model for quality assurance in design, development, production, installation and servicing International Standard 9002: Quality management - Model for quality assurance in production and installation International Standard 9003: Quality management - Model for quality assurance in final inspection and test International Standard 9004: Quality management - Model for quality assurance and quality system elements International Organization for Standardization, Geneva
5 MfE.(2001) Good practice guide for assessing and managing the environmental effects of dust emissions Ministry for the
6 National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Council (NERDDC), 1988, Air Pollution from Surface Coal Mining:Volume 2 Emission Factors and Model Refinement, prepared by Dames & Moore, 1988, for NERDDC, NERDDC Project Number 921
7 Quality of Urban Air Research Group (1996) "Airborne Particulate Matter in the United Kingdom: Third Report of the Quality of Urban Air Review Group", prepared at the request of the Department of the Environment University of Birmingham, Birmingham
8 SANS 1929; 2011, South African National Standard; Ambient air quality – limits for common pollutants
Standard TCVN 5498: 1995 represents methods of dry dust settles and the total amount of dust settle on the outside of the industrial enterprises
The method of determining the amount of dry dust accumulation
This method utilizes measuring instruments coated with a sticky material to effectively capture dust particles By weighing the samples before and after exposure, the amount of dust settled can be quickly determined under dry, rain-free conditions The results are expressed in terms of grams per square meter per day (g/m²/day) or milligrams per square meter per day (mg/m²/day), providing accurate data for assessing dust deposition.
Sample container: plastic dish, with a cover by cling wrap and filter papers
Sample processing tools: laboratory heating and drying oven and microbalance
Prepare the tools before sampling:
- Vaseline was put in containers with no more than 1cm thickness, dried at
100 o C temperature for 2 hours and after this process it was sealed for later use
To ensure accurate measurements, dishes are numbered, washed, dried, and then precisely weighed using a microbalance with a accuracy of 0.1 mg, with all weight records carefully documented A piece of filter paper is coated with Vaseline and placed into each dish, each containing a volume of 50 mg, to prepare for the experiment This meticulous procedure guarantees precise sample preparation and reliable data collection for subsequent analysis.
For accurate measurement, placing the measuring dishes on identical points arranged in the empty space ensures consistency; each dish is ventilated from all sides Five samples are collected per location, with measurements taken over a 24-hour period for each sample After collection, samples are covered with cling wrap and weighed in the laboratory, ensuring no contact with the Vaseline surface during measurement The experiment is conducted only in clear weather, avoiding rain to maintain data integrity.
The time to get the sample is from 7 a.m until 7 a.m in the next day
To properly manage the samples, carefully separate the filter paper from the measuring dish Place the filter papers, including Vaseline and dust, into a laboratory oven and dry them at 400°C for two hours, ensuring they do not fall during the process Finally, record the results accurately for analysis.
Calculation: the amount of dust deposition is calculated by formula:
D: A measure of the average mass of particles settling on a unit area on a daily basis m1: Weight of sample dried constant weight before measure (mg) m2: Weight of sample dried constant weight after measure (mg)
S: the area of study site (m 2 ) t: time of measurement (24 hours-one day)
Dry dust deposition at one time is the average value of the calculated amount of dust settles on the sample, after exclude errors
To assess dust deposition, the total amount of dust (Dt) was calculated by summing the daily dust settlement measurements over one month, expressed in grams per square meter per month (g/m²·month).
Appendix B: Survey Questionnaire OWNER SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE (Dong Phu, Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa)
1 How long did you manage your business?
2 What kind of stones do you quarry?
3 What kind of product do you make?
4 How large is your workshop? Where is it?
5 Where is the main resource for your quarry?
6 What methods do you use to process the stones?
7 What kind of the machines and the tools do you use?
8 What is the main vehicle to transport the stones and the products?
9 During the production, does it have the discharge waste? What is it?
10 How do you handle this waste? Is there any method to keep it under control?
11 How many labors do you have in your cooperative?
12 Do you have any method to keep your labors safety? Do they have labor protection?
13 Does the local government have management plan and environmental monitoring in there?
LABORS SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE (Dong Phu, Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa)
1 Are you male/female? Male □ Female □
2 How long did you work in this workshop?
3 What is your main responsible position in the workshop?
4 What kind of machines do you often use?
5 What kind of waste do you often see?
6 How do you protect yourself in your work?
7 How is your current health condition?
8 Do you check your periodic health? Yes/No
9 Do you have insurance? Yes/No
FARMERS SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE (Dong Phu, Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa)
1 Are you male/female? Male □ Female □
2 How long did you work in your field?
3 What kind of agriculture activities do you do in there?
Rice field □ Cattle □ both of them □
4 If you have rice field, how large is it?
5 If you raise cattle, what kind of cattle do you raise? How many?
6 Do you have any awareness about the dust settlement around here? Yes/ No Why?
7 How do rice/cattle development in this situation?
8 Do you have any method to reduce the dust settlement?
HOUSEHOLDS SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE (Dong Phu, Dong Son district, Thanh Hoa)
1 Are you male/female? Male □ Female □
4 How long did you stay here?
5 Do you have any trouble with the dust in your house?
6 Do you know where the dust comes from?
7 Do you have any method to reduce the dust in your house?
Appendix C Picture from the fieldwork
Picture 01: the drilling granite stones Picture 02: the Vang Mountain
Picture 04: inside workshop Picture 05: the product
Dust deposition in one day
Dust level in the sampling sites (mg/m 2 day)
Drilling section Cutting and polishing section
Transportation and loading goods section
Note: the days not mentioned in the table did not have experiment because it rained.