Over the past two centuries mining has been largely responsible for the improvement of the socioeconomic landscape of South Africa by growing the gross domestic product (GDP), boosting state revenue, foreign direct investment and generating employment [1, 2]. Despite the economic importance of mining to any nation, the consequences of its activities are borne directly by the ever-increasing populations and societies around the mining areas [3].Quarrying activity is a necessity that provides much of the materials used in traditional hard flooring, such as granite, limestone, marble, sandstone, slate and even ceramic tiles [4]. Quarrying activities such as rock breaking, grinding, and kiln operations are the primary sources of airborne pollutants (trace metals, particulate matters and other pollutants), which are often dispersed by wind to the surroundings and impact biotic and