The health impacts of surface mining and underground mining differ primarily in the context of environmental exposure and safety risks.
-
Higher risk of mine collapse in surface mining - This statement is incorrect as underground mining poses a greater risk of mine collapse due to the underground tunnels.
-
Lower risk of hearing loss in surface mining - This statement is typically true, as underground miners are often exposed to higher noise levels, potentially leading to a greater risk of hearing loss compared to those in surface mining.
-
Lower risk of miner injuries in surface mining - This statement can be misleading. While surface mining may have different types of injuries, each method has its own safety risks and may not necessarily have a lower overall risk of injury.
-
Higher risk of lung disease in surface mining - This statement is also generally inaccurate. Underground miners are often exposed to higher levels of dust and other airborne particles, which can contribute to lung disease, whereas surface mining may have lower levels of such exposure.
In summary, the most accurate distinction is the lower risk of hearing loss in surface mining compared to underground mining.