MSHA - Safety Idea - "Overcast Design"

MSHA's Accident Prevention Program
Safety Idea

Overcast Design

Mine Type: Underground Coal

Category: Back Injuries

Conventional overcasts can be labor intensive, expensive and time consuming. A possible alternative to this could be modular, re-usable structures. These structures should have the following characteristics:

Lightweight and durable

Easy to transport and assemble (no special tools required)

Inexpensive

Reliable and efficient

Sturdy enough to resist rib rolls and minor roof material

A small crew can build modular overcast units in a couple of hours. The lightweight design reduces the probability of muscular strains and sprains. The design should include the flexibility to adjust dimensions and provide an optimum fit.

When traveling over an overcast, slipping and tripping hazards can arise. Several manufacturers provide pre-manufactured designs of stairs complete with automatic stair tread adjustment to adapt to any overcast height. These units should include properly designed handrails and slip proof stair treads.

Reissued:	9/16/2002
Tag #	AP2002-S050