Uncovered coal trains spray coal particles along the railway corridor.
This has been unmonitored for over 10 years.
There needs to be several coal dust monitors installed, especially where residents, workers and railway passengers are present.
Wagons are uncovered, allowing coal dust to escape along the route
Approximately 100 coal trains travel through the Darling Downs, Ipswich and Brisbane each week.
Inhalable coal dust particles PM10 associated with respiratory symptoms; aggravation of bronchitis/asthma/emphysema. Is a risk factor for cardiopulmonary (heart & lungs) disease when particles are respirable PM 2.5
We want dust monitoring that can inform residents, workers and railway staff of current dust levels and to provide alerts when coal dust exceeds healthy levels.