The New South Wales operation operates four underground coal mines in the region and diesel vehicles are used at these operations.

The company has led the way in extensive research to control and manage diesel particulate levels within its mines over the last few years. Rather than trying to find the “magic bullet” the company is now pursuing a series of measures to effectively manage this issue the Illawarra Mercury reported.

The range of approaches includes introducing improved fuels that provide cleaner combustion and reduce emissions. Engine maintenance has also been targeted to ensure machines run as efficiently as possible. Mine ventilation has been assessed to ensure, for example, adequate air supply reaches areas where diesel exhaust may accumulate. Machine operators have been given better operating guidelines and, in some instances, exhaust filters have been fitted onto machines.

The Diesel Exhaust Initiative is now incorporated as part of the company's Zero Harm program, the Mercury reported.

BHP Billiton's Operating Excellence framework has been a key player in the development of the initiative.

The information collected through the company’s research has been published in a Diesel Emissions Management Manual, which covers health effects, monitoring methods, engine selection, fuel quality, mine ventilation, maintenance, exhaust filtration and emission controls.