Mine Safety and Health Administration
Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978
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U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978 |
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www.msha.gov |  |
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"Mine Safety Minutes" Text Transcripts
Water Innundations
We all remember the rescue of the nine miners at the Quecreek Mine in Somerset, Pa. Those miners spent 3 days trapped underground due to in-rushing water from an old adjacent mine. Operators of underground mines across the nation should take precautions to prevent such an occurrence. Consider all mine workings located adjacent to, above or below active mining areas. Determine their exact location and the level of water inside. If there is water inside, de-water the mine. Perform a diligent search for any final, dated and signed maps of the old mine workings. Gather information about the old mines by speaking with former miners and other local sources. Conduct a close examination of the outcrops and pay close attention to surface subsidence and geological structures. Also, consider the use of directional, long-hole drilling to ensure adequate barriers exist around mining areas. Undetected mine workings are a serious problem in this country. Let's do all we can to prevent another Quecreek. Thank you for listening and remember safety is a value. |
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Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) 1100 Wilson Boulevard, 21st Floor Arlington, VA 22209-3939 |
Phone:
(202) 693-9400 Fax-on-demand: (202) 693-9401 Technical (web) questions: Webmaster On-line Filing Help: MSHAhelpdesk@dol.gov or call (877) 778-6055 Contact Us | |
