From 2001-2009 there have been three ignitions involving auger miners and one involving a highwall miner. Serious consequences could have resulted from each incident. To decrease the probability of having a gas or dust ignition and associated injuries mine operators need to consider adopting these source, engineering, and administrative controls.
Source Control
- Assure spacing / web control between holes is planned
- Monitor for methane and oxygen gases & have audible and visual indicators
- Inert the active hole with non-combustible gas or,
- If applicable, use adequate ventilation and water sprays
Engineering Control
- Use an adequate blast deflection shield to protect workers around the hole
- Use chemically strengthened "shatterproof" glass in worker cab areas
- Use survey/alignment control devices to assure true placement, alignment and completion of holes
Administrative Control
- Do not position persons in direct line of the hole being mined and adjacent hole
- Use diligence when aligning your equipment for the next hole to be mined
- Inert adjacent holes and cover previous holes to maintain inert atmosphere in the event of an intersection to previous hole
- Conduct a thorough search for old/abandoned gas wells
- Train all miners regarding ignitions and mitigation controls
If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can email it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space. |
| Issued: |
01/15/2010 |
| Tag # |
AP2009-97611 |
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