This paper presents an overview of issues relevant to particulates production and emission within the mineral industries. It summarises the basic definitions and classifications of particulates, the legislative-standards, and the potential impact of dust upon occupational health. It also presents more technical oriented issues concerned with dust control, good work practice and current research trends. Particulates are classified according to their environmental, occupational health and physiological effects. National legislations and standards regulate particulate emissions. Occupational health and safety authorities around the world monitor and police human exposure. The prevention and control of dust emission is achieved through the use of mitigation techniques and good working practices. In addition, research work contributes to a better understanding and evaluation of solution technologies. Current research investigations have employed laboratory and field based experiments as well as monitoring and modelling studies. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.