ENVIRONMENT

MSHA preps US industry for winter

The US Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has released the details of its annual Winter Alert campaign to put into focus the season’s inherent hazards for coal operations.

Staff reporter
All mines should be sure to remove snow and ice on roadways

All mines should be sure to remove snow and ice on roadways

The yearly initiative runs through March and targets both underground and surface mines, emphasising the importance of vigilance and safety compliance when temperatures turn colder, which increase these dangers.

For example, dry winter air can crease dry conditions underground, suspending coal dust in the atmosphere and amplifying explosion potential. Also, when the barometric pressure falls, methane can migrate more easily, also increasing explosion risk. Ice and snow at facilities and preparation plants are additional concerns. 

Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health David Zatezalo noted that, during Winter Alert, the agency’s personnel will work to ensure miners and mine operators have information to maintain both safe and healthful working conditions.

He also stressed that some of the most crucial tips for both underground and surface mines over the coming season. While working below the surface, mine examinations are key, including checking for methane, knowing and maintaining the operation’s ventilation plans and controls, applying rock dust continuously to prevent propagation. 

At the surface, including mine facilities, being aware of surroundings including visibility, slippery walkways and freezing and thawing highwalls is vital as all may lead to accidents.

Operators should regularly check highwalls and benches for stability, and also examine vehicles for exhaust leaks, potentially limiting idle times on engines. Finally, MSHA said, all mines should be sure to remove snow and ice on roadways, and apply sand to maintain traction.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Magazine Intelligence team.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Magazine Intelligence team.

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Future Fleets Report 2024

The report paints a picture of the equipment landscape and includes detailed profiles of mines that are employing these fleets

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Digitalisation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations that use digitalisation technology to drive improvements across all areas of mining production

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Automation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations using autonomous solutions in every region and sector, including analysis of the factors driving investment decisions

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Exploration Report 2023 (feat. Opaxe data)

A comprehensive review of current exploration rates, trending exploration technologies, a ranking of top drill intercepts and a catalog of 2022 Initial Resource Estimates and recent discovery successes.