(Virtual Showroom) Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM)—also known as black smoke or soot—is a toxic pollutant emitted from diesel engines. Comprising ultra-fine carbon-based particles, DPM can deeply penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified DPM as a Group 1 carcinogen, confirming its potential to cause cancer in humans.

With the risk now formally acknowledged in South African law, employers and mining operators must take immediate steps to comply with the amended Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA). Effective 26 June 2025, the South African government has introduced a legally enforceable occupational exposure limit (OEL) of 0.1 mg/m³ for elemental carbon, a key component of DPM.

Why This Matters to the South African Mining Industry

Mining environments—especially underground operations—are high-risk zones for diesel particulate exposure due to the heavy use of diesel-powered machinery. Previously, South Africa relied on international guidelines to inform risk assessments and mitigation efforts, but the new Exposure Limits for Diesel Particulate Matter formalise a standard for South Africa that requires strict compliance.

Key Legislative Requirements:

• Updated occupational hygiene risk assessments
• New Codes of Practice in line with revised exposure limits
• Implementation of engineering controls, such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs)
• Ongoing monitoring and verification

HJS Emission Technology SA: Your Partner in DPM Compliance

HJS Emission Technology South Africa (HJS SA) is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of advanced Diesel Particulate Filters, Catalytic Converters, and Complete Exhaust Systems designed specifically for high-risk industrial and mining environments.

Since 2021, HJS SA has tested and deployed DPF systems across a range of major mining houses. Testing confirms that machines equipped with HJS DPF technology are not only fully compliant with the new 0.1 mg/m³ DPM limit, but also benefit from:

• Reduced fuel consumption
• Lower maintenance costs
• Improved machine efficiency and uptime

These results showcase the dual advantage of investing in compliant technology: regulatory peace of mind and operational savings.

Community-Driven, On-Site Support

HJS SA’s mission extends beyond technology. Our solutions are designed for seamless integration and localised service delivery, including:

• Upskilling and employing local community members to support system maintenance
• Offering on-site technical support to ensure continued compliance and performance
• Ensuring job creation and sustainable skills development in mining communities

This approach provides mining operators with ongoing assurance while contributing meaningfully to socio-economic development.

South Africa’s New Exposure Limit for Diesel Particulate Matter in Context

Previously, South African mines relied on phased-in guidelines or international benchmarks:

• US MSHA: 160 µg/m³ (Total Carbon)
• Canada (Ontario): 400 µg/m³ (Total Carbon)
• Australia: 100 µg/m³ (Elemental Carbon, 8-hour average)

Now, with the introduction of a strict 0.1 mg/m³ limit (Elemental Carbon) under the MHSA, South Africa has joined leading global economies in prioritising workplace air quality and long-term worker health.

How to Get Compliant—Fast

With the compliance deadline looming, mining operations must act quickly. HJS SA offers:

• Industry-specific consultations
• Custom-engineered DPF systems
• Full-service installations and technical support
• On-site training and capacity-building

Whether you're retrofitting your fleet or starting from scratch, HJS SA has the technology, experience, and community-first approach to help you meet South Africa’s new occupational exposure limits for Diesel Particulate Matter.

Protect your people. Improve your performance. Power your compliance.

Contact HJS SA or visit www.hjs-sa.com today to learn how we can help your mine meet the new DPM regulations and thrive sustainably.