Safety Alert
Battery Fire/Explosion Hazard
On 4/11/2024, a Continuous Personal Dust Monitor (CPDM) device was placed on top of a continuous mining machine and was struck by a rock (approximately 24-inch diameter and 10 inches thick) that fell approximately 6 feet. Immediately after impact, miners reported flames coming from the device, followed by an explosion and larger flames encompassing the unit for a short period of time before extinguishing. Many devices, such as the CPDM, hand-held radios, cell phones, and cap lamps are powered by lithium batteries. When designed, manufactured, used and maintained properly, lithium and other battery sources for these hand-held devices are a safe power source.
Best Practices
- Ensure miners appropriately use and protect lithium battery-powered devices from unusual and excessive heat, stress, impacts, and other hazards.
- Conduct workplace examinations and eliminate hazardous conditions.
- Control roof, face, and ribs where persons work or travel.
- Train miners in the use and proper care of lithium battery-powered equipment including the proper use of PPE.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for storage, use, charging, and maintenance of lithium batteries.
- Keep fire extinguishing equipment readily available.