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"Mine Safety Minutes" Text Transcripts
#23 - Winter Alert
    Did you know that more than half of all miners killed in mine explosions in the last 20 years were victims of winter mining accidents?

    Hello, I'm Bob Friend with the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

    It's true that most mine explosions historically have occurred during colder weather months-October through March.

    Among other cold weather hazards, decreases in barometric pressure can allow explosive methane to move into working areas of an underground coal mine. This increases the risk of a deadly explosion.

    Here's what you can do:

    Be sure to follow your mine's approved ventilation plan. Always conduct good pre-shift examinations.


    Apply liberal amounts of rock dust in all areas of the mine. Keep travelways clear of ice and snow.

    And never, ever smoke in an underground coal mine. Let's send every miner home safe and healthy after each shift.

    Thank you for listening.



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