Recent mine disasters focused attention on the need to improve the operation and management of mine emergency response, from communications to rescue operations. Experience in other countries indicates that mine safety can be dramatically improved by implementing risk management methods, including hazard identification, risk assessment, implementation of controls, emergency response plans, and a system to manage the process.
An expert in mine major hazard risk assessment from the Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre (MISHC) will work with NIOSH to develop knowledge and skills in applying major hazard risk assessment and management in the U.S. mining industry. MISHC will also help NIOSH conduct case studies in major hazard risk assessment at cooperating underground mines. The case studies will lead mine personnel through a formal risk assessment of a mine site hazard with the potential for multiple fatalities. The process will evaluate prevention, initial response, communications, escape, refuge and emergency response capacities, and will identify gaps in protection. An analysis of the risk assessment process at each mine site and feedback from participants will be used to evaluate the potential for success of the risk management process in the U.S. mining industry.
Development of a Severe Injury Surveillance System for Hazard Identification and Guiding Technological Interventions (200-2008-24858)
University of Arizona
Identify risk factors for severe injuries and fatalities in mining as well as hazardous work processes that are amenable to technological interventions
Modeling Natural Gas Explosions for Coal Mine Safety (08FED898342)
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory
Use numerical modeling techniques to simulate and analyze natural gas explosions in mine tunnels
Conduct Numerical Modeling to Meet the Requirements of the 2008 Congressional Appropriations Bill Per the Attached Statement of Work (200-2008-24752)
West Virginia University
Refine the numerical simulation model LaModel to improve rock mass response and pillar loading input parameters
Deep Mine Safety (200-2008-25438)
The University of Utah
Examine the susceptibility of mines to seismic activity and identify technology to protect deep mine workers
Contract with MTS Services to Provide Digital Control System for the Mine Roof Simulator (200-2008-24535)
MTS Services
Replace the aging analog control system on NIOSH's Mine Roof Simulator with a digital control system
References
Publications
Focus on Prevention: Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment(PDF, 755 KB) Mallett-L; Brnich-MJ | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 99-155, 1999 Oct :1-6