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MSHA Job Safety Tips


ROOF BOLTER
(ANTHRACITE)

The Pennsylvania anthracite industry saw 1995 as its worst year of the last decade for fatal injuries and accidents.

From 19931995, four miners died while installing either roof or rib supports. Two of the miners were working inby support, a deadly practice nationwide.

Additionally, two miners were injured and only a save by the canopy on a continuous miner prevented another fatality.

To prevent yourself from becoming the next statistic:
  • Always test the roof and ribs before proceeding inby to install temporary supports.

  • Know your roof and rib control plan requirements and install additional support where needed.

  • Take a minute or two to observe the area to be supported. Look for cracks or other indications of faults present.

  • Prepare, in advance whenever possible, a list of the materials needed.

  • When installed supports indicate excessive loading, install additional support/relief timber, from outby, advancing toward the area needing supports.

  • Never work inby support other than to install new supports.

U.S. Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration



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