Underground Mining Safety Issues
Modern underground mines have rigorous safety rules and precautions and mining companies require a great deal of on-the-job safety training. In addition, the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 directed the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to study the causes of coal-related diseases and to develop a program to prevent the heath problems of coal workers. However, even with the best safety standards in place, sometimes mining accidents still occur. There are many safety issues to consider when you are thinking about working in an underground mine.
Mining Explosions
Mining explosions are one of the most daunting safety concerns for underground mining companies. When methane is released from the coal seam and the surrounding rock, the risk of explosion can be from 5 to 15 percent. Methane is released as a result of the physical process of the extraction of coal. Though most mines are vented, ventilation problems often occur when the ventilation systems fail. When an explosion takes place, the miners are supposed to escape to safety rooms which contain supplies such as food and water that can last for several days. However, when miners cannot reach the safety rooms or are too close to the site of the explosion, death and injury can occur.
Mine Collapse
Mine collapse sometimes happens when the structure of the underground mine is not stable enough to sustain itself. When a mine collapses, there is a danger of trapping the workers inside the mine, under the rubble, leading to injury or even death for some or all of the crew. Due to the danger of a mine explosion, rescue parties often have to wait days before entering the mine to search for employees who may be trapped.
Mining-Related Illness
Employees who have worked for in mines for extended periods of time have a greater chance of developing a mining- related illness. These illnesses are caused by exposure to mining chemicals and the physical hazards which are associated with mining. Mining related illnesses include respiratory disease, lung cancer, hearing loss and musculoskeletal disorders.
Mining Explosions
Mining explosions are one of the most daunting safety concerns for underground mining companies. When methane is released from the coal seam and the surrounding rock, the risk of explosion can be from 5 to 15 percent. Methane is released as a result of the physical process of the extraction of coal. Though most mines are vented, ventilation problems often occur when the ventilation systems fail. When an explosion takes place, the miners are supposed to escape to safety rooms which contain supplies such as food and water that can last for several days. However, when miners cannot reach the safety rooms or are too close to the site of the explosion, death and injury can occur.
Mine Collapse
Mine collapse sometimes happens when the structure of the underground mine is not stable enough to sustain itself. When a mine collapses, there is a danger of trapping the workers inside the mine, under the rubble, leading to injury or even death for some or all of the crew. Due to the danger of a mine explosion, rescue parties often have to wait days before entering the mine to search for employees who may be trapped.
Mining-Related Illness
Employees who have worked for in mines for extended periods of time have a greater chance of developing a mining- related illness. These illnesses are caused by exposure to mining chemicals and the physical hazards which are associated with mining. Mining related illnesses include respiratory disease, lung cancer, hearing loss and musculoskeletal disorders.
- dxd3797b707f4a7bf6ed4882e3b99effb0.jpg
