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| Full-scale test of noise abatement material in a cab |
Background
Between 1990 and 2001, 519 fires broke out in the metal and nonmetal segment of the mining industry, resulting in 308 injuries and 5 fatalities. These fires involved a diverse range of flammable materials, equipment, and ignition sources. Although much progress has been made in preventing and controlling fires in the U.S. mining industry, fires within the metal-nonmetal sector still occur at an average rate of about 40 per year. Every fire has the potential to cause significant numbers of injuries and loss of life. The metal-nonmetal mining industry lacks requirements for mandatory fire detection systems or devices that could warn miners of fire. Research on the causes of fires and the resultant fire hazards is being conducted as a basis for developing strategies, techniques, and products for detection, control, and prevention of fires. Fire safety and fire emergency preparedness training is being developed to address the unique problems of the metal-nonmetal mining industry.
Potential Outcome
In 2006, this project will develop simple, easily deployed, low-cost smoke sensors that could result in earlier fire detection and reduce worker exposure to fire hazards, smoke, and airborne contaminants. Strategies and guidelines for deploying these sensors will also be developed.
By 2007, combustible materials used in metal-nonmetal mines that should be subject to more stringent fire resistance ratings will be identified. Tests and guidelines for use of these materials will be developed. This will impact roughly 80% to 90% of all fires and injuries due to fire within the metal-nonmetal mining industry and will result in reductions in the number of fires and in injuries and fatalities due to fire.
Fire safety training programs and workshops will be developed and conducted from 2005 through 2007 using materials already developed for the coal mining industry as a guide. This will create and increase worker awareness about the hazards of fire and appropriate techniques for response.
A fire preparedness and response checklist for underground metal-nonmetal mines has been developed and is currently being field tested. The list will provide improved strategies and capabilities to prevent and respond to fire emergencies at underground metal-nonmetal mines. The Mine Safety and Health Administration is expected to adopt portions of the checklist for its training materials and for conducting mine fire prevention audits.