Working underground is risky business, and it takes a certain kind of person to navigate the complexities of the mining industry.
When operating in open channels, tunnels or any other extreme environments, being aware of general mine safety protocols can help make the job a whole lot easier and far less risky to work in. Let’s look at some general tip suggestions below.
Staying Ahead of Industry Rules & Regulations
Adherence to mining rules and regulations is absolutely essential for mining workers. Whether it’s undertaking regular onsite inspections, practicing attention to detail or following standard safety protocols, having an industry checklist can make the job site substantially less stressful.
Having access to clear and concise processes is not only an effective way to create a safer and more responsible work environment; it generates a more positive company culture that inspires a clearer enforcement of rules.
Wearing Personal Protective Clothing
Miners have personal protective gear requirements that must be worn prior to every work shift. When you consider the many dangers and risks involved in mining operations such as exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, inhalation of gases and falling rocks, you can understand why wearing protective gear is an absolute must.
Whether it’s reflective clothing, steel cap boots, glasses or hard hats, these items are an essential safety protocol that is a non-negotiable in a mining environment.
Depending on the exact nature of the project, there will be varying protective gear requirements needed to ensure worker’s are exposed to minimal hazards, while ensuring they are kept safe from injury and harm.
Preparing To Plan
In an industry as serious as mining, developing a comprehensive plan prior to starting work is pivotal to the success in all underground projects. This includes determining the’ best case scenarios’, assessing the local environment for potential hazards or simply identifying obvious weak points that may be a cause for concern moving forward.
Using the right digital and mining technology is also a good way to highlight different outcomes, enhance overall work processes while decreasing the chances of things going wrong. At Mining & Civil Integrity Testing, we can help you forge the right plan that will ensure greater success on a mining site.
Managing Cold & Heat Stress
The diverse range of temperatures that miners endure on a daily basis can take a serious physical and mental toll on the body. A standard shift can see a miner working up to 10-12 hours per day, which can have a severe impact if operating in extremely cold or hot temperatures.
Some of the effects of heat stress may include confusion, dizziness, dehydration and heat exhaustion and in cooler conditions, breathing difficulties. The best ways to manage the health and safety of workers is to ensure they are sufficiently hydrated throughout their shift, taking regular breaks and wearing sufficient gear to protect against extreme temperature conditions.
Minimising Accidents With Clear Visibility
Working in deep underground bases and dark work environments can be very challenging if there’s limited visibility. There is no room for mistakes in mining so it’s imperative that proper lighting and visual testing of an area is performed to ensure mining crews can see what they’re doing.
When it comes to creating strong visibility in an underground mining area, things like machinery lights, helmet lighting and equipment illumination can go a long way towards minimising accidents and collisions from occurring.
MCIT provides independent ground support and quality control solutions for the mining industry. With a strong focus on quality data and ongoing improvements, we are here to assist you with all your mining requirements.
For more information on implementing correct mining safety and industry protocols, get in touch with our team on 0428 466 070 or 0427 088 020.