Entitled Knock Out the Risk, Check Your List, the US Mine Safety and Health Administration rolled out special posters, decals and pocket cards to help all workers be mindful of the seasonal changes.
"Conditions at underground and surface coal mines can change dramatically during the winter months," assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health Joseph Main said.
A larger number of mine explosions that have historically occurred during winter months cite contributing factors including low barometric pressures and low humidity along with seasonal drying that occurs in many areas of coal mines.
Other issues, such as limited visibility, icy haul roads and walkways, and the freezing and thawing effect on highwalls at surface mines can create problems during the winter.
MSHA warns underground operators and individual miners alike to follow safety checklists and ensure adequate ventilation while applying liberal amounts of rock dust. Conducting frequent and thorough examinations, and having a familiarity with mine ignition and explosion prevention procedures, are also vital.
At the surface, the agency urges miners to be vigilant about keeping escapeways clear of impediments.
“Miners and operators of surface mines should examine the stability of highwalls, remove snow and ice from walkways, de-ice any equipment, and apply salt and sand liberally where needed,” officials said.
One important factor of winter safety being stressed by MSHA is examination awareness, as it is the first line of defense for miners working underground.
Pre-shift requirements include testing for float dust accumulations, methane, oxygen deficiency, and air direction. A certified person must also take air measurements at specified locations as required, regularly check refuge alternatives for damage and certify completed examinations.
For on-shift examinations, intended to identify hazards that develop over a shift, federal officials remind crews that such an examination generally includes methane and oxygen testing, reviews of conditions for hazards such as adverse roof, air measurements, and exams to ensure compliance with the respirable dust control parameters specified in the mine’s ventilation plan.
Mines should also conduct weekly examinations, focusing on those areas that are more remote and less frequently traveled. These tasks include methane and oxygen deficiency, hazardous conditions checks such as missing or damaged ventilation controls and air measurements.
MSHA inspectors will be distributing the posters, hardhat stickers and Examination Awareness pocket cards during normal inspection duties, and will be available to discuss the initiative during meetings with underground coal miners.
