Mining Publication: Emerging Technologies: Aiding Responders in Mine Emergencies and During the Escape From Smoke-Filled Passageways
Original creation date: December 2001
Historically, underground mine rescue teams have received training only in the course of actual emergencies, or in simulated mine environments, usually on the surface, with placards to identify objects and hazards. Also, while U.S. Federal Regulations require all underground miners to walk escapeways and conduct fire drills every 90 days, this does not fully prepare them for the conditions that may be encountered in real escape situations, such as smoke filled entries. This paper describes technology and realistic training simulations that have been identified for the general workforce and mine emergency responders. Of all the technology evaluated by underground personnel, laser lights and lifelines were most beneficial in leading personnel to safety and out of the mine in smoke-filled passageways. These technological advancements can improve the state of readiness for rescue personnel and increase the chances of survival for personnel escaping from underground emergencies.
Authors: RS Conti
Conference Paper - December 2001
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20021278
Proc Northwest Mining Association 107th Annual Meeting, Exposition and Short Courses (Dec 3-7, 2001; Spokane, WA); :14 pp
See Also
- 3+3 SCSR Donning Screen Saver - 1.0
- Emergency Management
- Fire Response Preparedness for Underground Mines
- Knowledge Management and Transfer for Mine Emergency Response
- Leadership Characteristics in Escape from Three Underground Mine Fires
- Mine Rescue and Response
- An Oral History Analysis of Mine Emergency Response
- Programmable Electronic and Hardwired Emergency Shutdown Systems: A Quantified Safety Analysis
- Rescue Technologies and Training
- Responders to Underground Mine Fires
- Sprinkler Head Emergency Communications
- Page last reviewed: 9/21/2012
- Page last updated: 9/21/2012
- Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Program