CDC - NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards - Coal dust

Anthracite coal dust, Bituminous coal dust, Coal mine dust, Lignite coal dust

NIOSH REL

TWA 1 mg/m³ [measured according to MSHA method (CPSU)]
TWA 0.9 mg/m³ [measured according to ISO/CEN/ACGIH criteria]
See Appendix C (Coal Dust and Coal Mine Dust)

OSHA PEL

TWA 2.4 mg/m³ [respirable, < 5% SiO₂]
TWA (10 mg/m³)/(%SiO₂ + 2) [respirable, > 5% SiO₂]
See Appendix C (Mineral Dusts)
[Note: The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) PEL for respirable coal mine dust with < 5% silica is 2.0 mg/m³, or (10 mg/m³) / (% respirable quartz + 2) for coal dust with > 5% silica.] See Appendix G

Dark-brown to black solid dispersed in air.

Properties vary depending upon the specific coal type.

Chronic bronchitis, decreased pulmonary function, emphysema