Induction for new employees joining African Underground Mining Services - a complete transformation of a previously Australian centric communication into a Ghana specific communication

1. GENERAL AND UNDERGROUND
MINING INDUCTION

2. INFORMATION AND AGENDA
• EMERGENCY EVACUATION, EXITS & MUSTER POINT
• MOBILE PHONES
• TOILETS
• BREAKS/LUNCH
• SMOKERS
• PAPERWORK & BOOKLET
• HUMAN RESOURCES (HR)
• FINISH TIME
2

3. AUMS – OUR OBJECTIVES
We will provide you with the knowledge and skills so that
you can work in a safe and responsible manner.
All employees have access to training. We want to help
you become competent in your work.
Our aim is to return you home healthy with no injury.
AUMS BELIEVES ALL TASKS CAN BE DONE SAFELY, AT WORK
AND AT HOME, 24 HOURS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK.
3

4. LEGISLATION – GHANA MINES ACT
AUMS operates under Ghanaian law.
Breaking the law means AUMS as a company, as well as
individuals can be prosecuted, fined and even jailed.
In terms of the law, health and safety representatives are
elected by the workforce. They are the spokespersons for
all health and safety issues.
4

5. DUTY OF EMPLOYERS
As far as possible provide and maintain a working
environment in which employees are not exposed to
hazards. This means that the company must have :
Safe plant, equipment, PPE and safe working procedures
Methods of consultation and co operation
Inform, instruct, train and supervise in the safe use,
handling, storage, transport and disposal of plant and
substances
5

6. DUTY OF EMPLOYEES
Duty of Employees - 1
To take reasonable care for your
safety and the safety of others.
6

7. DUTY OF EMPLOYEES
Duty of Employees - 2
Come to work in a fit state
7

8. FITNESS FOR WORK
8

9. FITNESS FOR WORK
Factors that affect fitness for work
• Lack of sleep and fatigue
• Stress (work, marital, financial)
• Alcohol and hangovers
• Drugs and prescription medication
• Illness and injury
• Working hours
9

10. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
10

11. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
• All AUMS employees and Contractors have
random alcohol and drug tests. Every
employee must have a breath test before
work
• Any blood alcohol reading above 0.00% is
regarded as a positive result. In other
words, the limit is NIL
11

12. SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted
• In any vehicle
• Inside any enclosed area
• In offices, chop houses and buildings
12

13. SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted
• Underground
• Within 10m of explosives and 30m of a re fuelling station
• Where signs, laws or company rules prohibit smoking
13

14. WORKING SAFELY
OVERVIEW
• Incident and Accident Reporting
• Injury Reporting and Workers Compensation
• Risk Management and Hazard Identification
• JSA training
• Fire Safety
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Mobile Equipment and Vehicles
14

15. WORKING SAFELY
• Isolation and Tagging
• Electrical Safety
• Chemicals and Hazardous Substances
• Manual Handling
• Maintenance Operations
• Working At Heights
15

16. INCIDENT AND ACCIDENT REPORTING
ALL accidents, incidents and near misses must be
reported, no matter how minor.
• Near Hit
• Equipment damage
• Fire
• Injury
• Environmental
You help us when you report incidents
If we know about it, we can deal with it
16

17. INCIDENT AND ACCIDENT REPORTING
INJURIES
All injuries, no matter how minor, must be reported to
your supervisor by no later than the end of the shift.
The injury must be recorded on an Incident Report Form
(IRF).
Failure to report an injury could
stop you from receiving workers
compensation
17

18. INJURIES AND TREATMENT
18

19. INJURIES AND TREATMENT
PROCEDURE WHEN YOU HAVE AN INJURY
• Report to your Supervisor.
• Report to the safety office and then follow up with
International SOS or the site medical centre.
• If further medical treatment is required, transport will
be provided to closest medical facility or return home
for treatment.
19

20. EMERGENCY RESPONSE
In an emergency refer to the site specific process for raising
the alarm. Do not disturb the scene of a serious accident
unless required to render first aid
20

21. EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Give this information: Name, location, type of incident,
number of casualties and state of casualties. Stay on phone or
in contact.
21

22. COMMUNICATION
AUMS communicates information in many ways such as
safety meetings
22

23. COMMUNICATION
AUMS communicates information in many ways such as
Safety Time Out
23

24. COMMUNICATION
AUMS communicates information in many ways such as
notice boards
24

25. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
What is a Hazard?
“Anything that has the potential to cause
harm, injury or illness to personnel, damage to
equipment or the environment”.
25

26. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
WHERE ARE THE HAZARDS ?
26

27. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
WHERE ARE THE HAZARDS ?
27

28. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
28

29. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
WHERE ARE THE HAZARDS ?
29

30. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
IS THIS A HAZARD ?
30

31. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
ARE THEY AT RISK ?
31

32. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Wild animals are dangerous –
a hazardous environment and
very risky for people
What makes it safe?
The vehicle?
The game guides?
A firearm?
32

33. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
The relationship between hazard and risk :
• Hazards have the POTENTIAL to cause harm
• A hazard will not harm if there is no activity
• Activity needs to be exposed to the hazard to become
risky, and high exposure to hazards mean more chance
of getting hurt, low exposure means less chance of
getting hurt
• The level of control over risk determines the likelihood
getting hurt by a hazard. High control level equals lower
risk of getting hurt.
33

34. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Examples of low / high levels of exposure to hazards and
the related risks :
• Potassium Dichromate is a highly toxic chemical. It is
used in breathalisers. However, it is sealed in a tube, and
does not come into contact with the person. Therefore
although it is a highly hazardous substance, it does not
present any risk to anybody. Example of high control.
• Flour is a very low toxic substance. Many years of high
exposure (as a baker) to airborne flour could lead to
asthma. Low control over this hazard means high risk.
34

35. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
Consists of 3 parts:
1. Identification
2. Assessment of Risk
3. Controls to reduce risk
• This can be also be remembered by
acronym of SAM - Spot the hazard, Assess
the risk and Make the change.
35

36. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
36

37. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
37

38. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
AUMS uses formal and informal methods of identifying
and reporting hazards in the workplace.
• Verbal reporting
• Pre start checks on equipment
• Safe Workplace Inspection Checklists (SWIC)
• Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
• Workplace inspections
• Incident / Accident Report Forms
38

39. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
SWIC
A Safe Workplace Inspection Checklist
(SWIC) must be completed whenever
you enter a new work area.
All employees shall complete at least one
per shift.
39

40. RISK ASSESSMENT And CONTROL
40

41. RISK ASSESSMENT And CONTROL
41

42. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
• If it is safe, fix or remove a hazard as
soon as possible.
• If you are unable to remove or fix the
hazard, you have a responsibility to:
– report it to your Supervisor
immediately.
– barricade or isolate the hazard.
– make sure that others are aware
of the hazard
42

43. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
Scenario for assessing risk :
Two trucks travelling at speed on a haul road arrive at an
intersection. (No controls in place).
What is the consequence and likelihood?
43

44. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
Consequence - fatalities
Likelihood - very likely to happen
Need to reduce the risk by putting controls in place
44

45. RISK ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
• After implementing controls, reassess level of risk
to determine if it is acceptable.
Aim is for As Low as Reasonably Practicable ALARP
• If risk is unacceptable, Do Not perform task, notify
supervisor.
Reassess risk of vehicle incident?
• Have you reduced the consequence and likelihood
of the incident?
45

46. CONTROLLING RISKS – THE JSA
What is a JSA ?
A method to identify hazards with a job so that controls can
be used to reduce the risk or potential for injury and loss
46

47. CONTROLLING RISKS – THE JSA
When is a JSA required?
– New job or unfamiliar task.
– New equipment, machinery or procedures.
– Unusual conditions
– Infrequent operation
– Previous incidents have occurred both safety
and environmental.
– Whenever a concern is raised about a task.
47

48. CONTROLLING RISKS – THE JSA
Who should be involved in
doing a JSA?
• Everyone who is required
to do the task where
there is significant risk
• Supervisor
• Safety and training officer
or safety rep
• Trades personnel
48

49. CONTROLLING RISKS – THE JSA
3 STEPS
1. Break the job down
into steps
2. Identify hazards
3. Implement Controls
49

50. JSA Work Sheet Activity 3
Flat tyre on a LV.
JOB SAFETY ANALYSIS WORKSHEET JOB: PAGE: 1 OF
FACILITY/SITE: Training
DEPARTMENT:
SUPERVISOR: Your Name Signature
TEAM MEMBERS: Today's Date
DATE:
Required Additional Personal Protective Equipment:
List associated Safe Work Procedures / Safe Work Guidelines:
Step Describe Job Step Potential Hazards Hazard Management / Control
No.
List the natural steps of the job (List WHAT is What can happen at each step? Use the following checklist. Describe how defined hazards can be managed, controlled or removed.
to be done, NOT HOW it is to be done). Can employee be struck by / caught on / contacted by / struck Consider elimination / substitution, engineering controls, administrative
against / contacted with / trapped in / exposed to / caught controls, personal protective equipment.
between / have same level or different level fall / strain /
overexert?
1 Pull over & shut down
Hit by another car, Losing control Indicate, check mirrors and look. Slow down gradually
2 Get equipment out and set up Park off highway, Hazard lights, Warning triangles.
Hit by another vehicle, back strain, abrasions . Correct lifting technique,, wear gloves
3 Loosen wheel nuts & Jack up Fall off jack, Back strain Caught under, Slip / Chock wheels, Hand brake, In gear, Correct jack /
the car Trip placement, Hard level ground, Tyre under pillar, Correct lifting
4 Tech
Remove and replace tyre Same as step 3 +, wire protruding from tyre. Same as step 3 & wear gloves.
5 Lower Car & tighten wheel Same as step 3 Same as step 3 but lower the car slowly and steadily
nuts keeping body parts away from underneath the car
6 Pack up equipment Same as step 2 Same as step 2
7 Same as step 1 Same as step 1 but speed up gradually.
Pull back out onto highway

51. FIRE SAFETY
Always identify the location, type
and condition of the portable fire
extinguishers in your work area
It is important to keep
extinguishers unobstructed for
emergency use
51

52. FIRE SAFETY
DRY CHEMICAL POWDER - red with a white band
Use on live electrical equipment
Use on
wood, paper, oil, kerosene, petrol, textiles, acetyle
ne, and LPG
All heavy vehicles have
AFFF systems installed.
They will suppress a fire
that starts in the engine
compartment, and is
activated by the operator
52

53. FIRE SAFETY
Check the Gauge Check the pin
is in place.
Check the Check the handle
Inspection tag trigger mechanism
Check the hose Check the cylinder
53

54. FIRE SAFETY
Use the PASS method when you are extinguishing a fire
54

55. FIRE SAFETY
When attempting to extinguish a fire you should always:
Stand upwind of the fire
Stand up hill of the fire
Stay down low
Aim at the base of fire
55

56. FIRE SAFETY
PREVENTION IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN THE CURE
Be aware of your surroundings when doing hot work
Keep combustible chemicals and materials
away from possible ignition sources.
56

57. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) is anything worn on your
person to protect you from
hazards which may cause harm,
injury or illness.
57

58. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
You have a responsibility to
inspect your PPE before you
use it, as well as maintain and
wear the proper PPE all the
time.
58

59. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) must
be worn wherever:
• Signage indicates
• You are instructed to do
so by your supervisor
• A procedure outlines it‘s
use.
59

60. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) must
be worn wherever:
• A hazard identification
process has highlighted
the need.
• You determine it is
required to prevent harm
or injury.
60

61. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Reflective high visibility PPE is required at
night and in some areas such as
workshops.
You are issued with long sleeved shirts,
long trousers or overalls
61

62. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The most important safety measure underground is to be
visible. Make sure that your reflective strip on your coveralls
is as bright as possible. Change worn out, old PPE for new PPE
62

63. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
EYE PROTECTION
Glasses Goggles Face shield
Welding shield / Oxy goggles
63

64. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Only clear safety glasses are allowed in workshop and
underground areas
64

65. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Tinted safety glasses are allowed in open spaces. If you
are not sure about the correct PPE ask your supervisor
65

66. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Hard hats are mandatory underground
66

67. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Ear and hearing protection
Wear ear plugs and ear muffs
according to signage as well as
work with very high noise levels
67

68. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Respiratory protection :
dust and particle masks
Respiratory canister type masks
68

69. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Gloves are used for manual
handling
• Rubber – short and long
• Canvas
• Leather
• Welding
• Heat resistant
• Chemical resistant
69

70. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Hand and wrist injuries are the
most common, accounting for one
in three workplace injuries.
Injuries range from being relatively
minor to very severe, most commonly
involving the fingers, with open wounds
the most common injury type and
amputation the most severe injury type.
70

71. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Safety boots
Leather steel capped, or rubber steel capped
Examine your boots each time you use
them, look for:
tread wear, holes or punctures
condition of the laces
Condition of the insoles
71

72. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
No one is allowed to operate
equipment unless they are
trained, and have AUMS tickets
Employees are responsible for
their own licenses. Make sure
they are up to date because you
need them for your job
72

73. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
Pre start checks must be done
73

74. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
Never leave your vehicle while you are re fuelling
74

75. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
Drive according to the
conditions of the road
Distance between vehicles is
minimum 30 metres
Always use reverse parking
75

76. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
Use the standard signals when starting and moving vehicles
START
ONE HORN BLAST
FORWARD REVERSE
TWO HORN BLASTS THREE HORN BLASTS
76

77. MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES
Do not operate mobile equipment
without a fire extinguisher and fire
suppression system
When mounting and dismounting
vehicles always face the machine
and maintain 3 points of contact
with steps and hand holds.
77

78. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
You isolate to stop :
• A motor from switching on (or off)
• A substance such as liquid, gas or powder getting in or
out
• Two hazardous substances mixing
78

79. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
You isolate to :
• Allow maintenance or inspection
• Take a piece of plant out of service for a certain time
• Change a process
• Make sure that even isolated plant cannot be started by
mistake somewhere else
• Stop the chance of human error or mechanical failure
79

80. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Isolation of equipment will make sure:
• That it will not start while you are working on it
• All persons working on the machine are protected
• Damage to the equipment is prevented.
80

81. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Isolation points can be :
• battery isolator switches
• air or water system
gate/shut off valves
• electrical switches or any
other physical means of
ensuring personnel can
not turn on the energy
source.
81

82. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
A tag is put on an
isolation point to warn
other people not to
change the state of the
isolation point
82

83. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
AUMS uses four basic types of tags
• Out of Service
• Personal Danger
• Commissioning and Testing
• Information
83

84. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
ISOLATION AND TAGGING
OUT OF SERVICE
These tags are used to prevent
defective equipment being
started, operated or used which may
result in injury to personnel or further
equipment damage.
84

85. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
PERSONAL DANGER
A Personal Danger tag provides protection
for personnel working on equipment.
No person shall de-isolate, operate any
switch or valve whilst a personal danger
tag is in place.
The only person who can place or remove
this tag is the person whose name
appears on the tag.
85

86. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
COMMISSIONING AND TESTING
This tag gives an employee exclusive
control over the plant operation.
It is used during commissioning,
calibration, testing, inspection and
maintenance when equipment is
required to be in operating mode.
86

87. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
ISOLATION AND TAGGING
INFORMATION TAGS
These tags are used to pass on
information which may reduce
inefficiencies, doubling up or constant
reporting.
87

88. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Equipment must be
isolated and tagged
with an OUT OF
SERVICE tag at each
isolation point
88

89. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Switches and valves
must be switched to
the isolated position
and tagged by an
authorised person
89

90. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Each person working
on the equipment
must have a PERSONAL
DANGER tag at each
isolation point
90

91. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
ISOLATION AND TAGGING
Before starting work, test the isolation. Discharge any
energy that MIGHT be stored in the system.
Each person must remove his or her own Personal
Danger Tag at the completion of the job or prior to
leaving the work site.
If the task is incomplete, the Out of Service tag remains
on the isolation point.
Always communicate isolation conditions with your
supervisor and the supervisor of the next crew coming
on shift.
91

92. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Only licensed electricians are
permitted to carry out electrical
repairs and access equipment and
installations
All fixed and portable electrical equipment
must have a valid electrical inspection tag
attached before use
Faulty equipment must be tagged
out of service and reported
92

93. ISOLATION AND TAGGING
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Before any work is started on electrically driven
plant and machinery, the electricity must be
isolated and tagged at the primary source.
93

94. CHEMICAL AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES
Be familiar with the properties of hazardous substances
Know the risks of handling them and take precautions
94

95. CHEMICAL AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES
Material Safety Data Sheets
Refer to the
MSDS for
information on :
safe
handling, storage
and disposal, first
aid PPE and
toxicity
95

96. MANUAL HANDLING
96

97. MANUAL HANDLING
Manual handling is any activity requiring a person to lift,
lower, push, carry, throw, move or restrain an object.
85% of workplace injuries are caused through manual
handling activities and the back is the most affected
body part.
97

98. MANUAL HANDLING
Determine the best technique (half squat) check
balance, avoid bending your back, twisting or reaching
Plan – before you lift, assistance required?
Bend knees - keep your back straight
Secure grip
Keep the load close to the body – minimise stress, centralise
the centre of gravity and face the direction you are moving
98

99. GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Good housekeeping means a tidy
workshop and working areas
99

100. GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Store tools and equipment away when not in use
100

101. GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Clean up spills immediately. Put all rubbish in designated bins
101

102. GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Maintain good housekeeping by:
Guarding or barricade any unsafe area.
Storing flammable materials in approved
cabinets and storage areas.
102

103. GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Good housekeeping happens underground. Clean up your
work area. Take your rubbish out with you at the end of shift
103

104. MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
Only qualified and authorised
personnel are permitted to do
maintenance repairs on
machinery, vehicles and mobile
equipment
An Out of Service tag or Personal
Danger tag must be attached before
any maintenance work can commence
104

105. MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
Only trained and
authorised personnel
are permitted to use
portable tools.
Check that it is in
good working order.
Check the current
inspection tag.
Wear the proper PPE
105

106. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
Use an approved full body
harness and shock absorbing
lanyard or a fall restraint device
attached to a fixed anchor point
106

107. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
Inspect the condition of
the equipment before use
107

108. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
Fall restraint must be used when you are working on :
Elevated work platforms and man baskets
108

109. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
Fall restraint must be used when you are working near :
open holes and manways
109

110. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
The Karabiner must
be attached to a
fixed anchor point
110

111. WORKING AT HEIGHTS
The miners belt is not
a full body harness and
cannot be used for fall
restraint
111

112. AFRICAN UNDERGROUND MINING SERVICES
UNDERGROUND INDUCTION

113. OBJECTIVE
Our underground operations have additional hazards
compared to surface operations.
This Underground Induction gives you information and
instruction for safer working practices underground. Follow
the induction closely to further protect yourself and work
safe.
OUR AIM IS TO RETURN YOU HOME IN THE SAME
CONDITION YOU ARRIVED IN - HEALTHY WITH NO INJURY.
113

114. UNDERGROUND MINING OVERVIEW
1 General Safety Rules
2 Additional PPE for Underground
3 Tag Board
4 Communication
5 Signs and Barricades
6 Ground Awareness / Support
7 Ventilation
8 Mine Gases
9 Mobile Equipment
10 Underground Fires & Evacuation
11 Explosives
12 Operational Hazards
114

115. UNDERGROUND MINING OVERVIEW
The underground environment has
nipper
key terminology used to describe
actions, locations and machinery.
tramming
bogger charging
backs
portal
Shift
supervisor
115

116. UNDERGROUND MINING OVERVIEW
1 You must comply with all safety instructions and safety
signage.
2 Do not enter barricaded or unventilated area’s of the
mine.
3 PPE must be worn as designated by signage, task
procedures or verbal instruction from your supervisor.
4 No person is to operate any equipment, tooling, mobile
equipment or vehicle unless trained and authorised.
5 Only authorised licensed electricians are permitted to
carry out electrical repairs and installations.
116

117. UNDERGROUND MINING OVERVIEW
6 You are not permitted in any area where explosives
are stored, handled or used unless trained and
authorised.
7 Report any hazard or unsafe condition which you are
unable to rectify yourself.
8 Report all injuries and incidents as soon as possible
after the incident to your supervisor.
9 You are not permitted to go under “unsupported”
ground.
117

118. EXTRA PPE UNDERGROUND
Your cap lamp is the most
important underground PPE
item. Make sure that it works
118

119. EXTRA PPE UNDERGROUND
Your cap lamp helps to keep
you safe underground
You must have your cap
lamp with you all the time
while you are underground
119

120. EXTRA PPE UNDERGROUND
A closed circuit oxygen re breather unit used when air
underground is filled with smoke and fumes
120

121. EXTRA PPE UNDERGROUND
You must have a watch with you
every time you go underground.
It is part of your PPE.
Carry spare tags with you so
they can be used
immediately on equipment
that you identify as a hazard
or when you work on
energised equipment.
121

122. EXTRA PPE UNDERGROUND
Gloves are an important part
of your PPE underground.
Carry a pair of gloves all the
time and make sure they are
the correct gloves for the job.
122

123. PERSONNEL TAG BOARD
The personal tag board is used to monitor which personnel
are underground at any given time
123

124. PERSONNEL TAG BOARD
You must:
TAG ON - when going underground and
TAG OFF - when leaving the mine
124

125. COMMUNICATIONS
Cap Lamp Signals
To gain a person’s
attention flick the cap
lamp beam
around and over them
125

126. COMMUNICATIONS
OK STOP REVERSE
Come towards me Do not come Get out
ADVANCE NO ENTRY GO BACK
126

127. COMMUNICATIONS
Hand signals are used when voice communication is not
possible.
It is recommended that the following hand signals be used
127

128. COMMUNICATIONS
GO THERE
UP GO THERE DOWN
Finger moves Flat hand held
in a circular out 90 degrees
motion from the body
128

129. COMMUNICATIONS
Guidelines for hand signals
Task overview
Agree on signals
Any confusion - STOP
Only one signaller
Loss of visual contact STOP
Use a Spotter
129

130. COMMUNICATIONS
Underground radio system
The leaky feeder system is used for
underground radio communications
You must be within sight of the cable
for good reception and transmitting
130

131. SIGNS AND BARRICADES
Signs and barricades are used
stop people going into
dangerous areas.
131

132. GROUND AWARENESS
Every underground worker must inspect the workplace before
starting any task
Checks must be done for ventilation, ground condition and
potential hazards
132

133. GROUND AWARENESS
We have two methods of ground control
Mesh – used with rock bolts to provide additional support
133

134. GROUND AWARENESS
Shotcrete – spray on fibrecrete, supported by bolts
Shotcrete – spray on fibrecrete used with rock bolts
134

135. GROUND AWARENESS
Scaling is the method of
removing loose rock that has the
potential to injure personnel or
damage machinery.
It is a hazardous task and is
performed by trained personnel.
135

136. PROHIBITED UNDERGROUND AREAS
Unless specifically authorized
by your supervisor, you must
never enter No Entry areas
136

137. VENTILATION
Primary Ventilation
The primary ventilation system draws air into the mine and
exhausts air back to the surface.
This provides the main travel ways of the mine with fresh air
circulation
137

138. VENTILATION
Secondary ventilation fans supply air from
the main travel ways to the work area
138

139. VENTILATION
Airborne hazards
Dust from drilling, blasting and loader work
139

140. VENTILATION
Airborne hazards
Blasting consumes available oxygen and
contaminates the air with toxic gases
140

141. VENTILATION
Airborne hazards
Diesel fumes from machinery
141

142. MINE GASES
Mine gases come from detonating explosives as well as
exhaust from diesel engines. Exposure of rock to air also
generates gases underground.
Examples
Carbon Monoxide Carbon Dioxide
Nitrous Oxides Sulphur Dioxide
Methane Hydrogen Sulphide
142

143. MINE GASES
Oxygen depletion is a hazardous condition underground.
If it is not managed properly it can result in a fatality.
Oxygen depletion is caused by:
• Displacement of oxygen by other mine gasses
• Diesel engines running excessively underground
• Underground fires
Good ventilation is the key to avoiding oxygen depletion.
143

144. MINE GASESMINE GASES
Gas monitoring
• If you suspect gas in an area, do not enter. Notify your
Supervisor so that a test can be conducted.
• Some activities require continuous gas detection. Your
Supervisor will instruct you to do so if required.
144

145. MINE GASES
Fuming
• Fuming is a term used to describe when a person has
been exposed to concentrations of mine gases that
have the potential to cause ill health.
• The symptoms of fuming can be delayed.
if you suspect fuming then tell your supervisor and the
safety department
145

146. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Heavy vehicles underground are a special hazard to workers
If you areThey areto big, they take up most of the space
on foot. unable very
move out of thespots where the driver cannot see you.
and have blind decline
then signal to the driver
with your cap lamp and
he will stop to let you
pass. Always move to a
place where the driver
can see you
146

147. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Always be aware of blind spots. The driver cannot see you in
those areas.
147

148. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Always be in a
position where the
driver can see you
148

149. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Move to a safe position when
you see and hear the heavy
vehicle coming toward you
149

150. ALL VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
If you are unable to move out
of the way then signal to the
driver with your cap lamp and
he will stop to let you pass.
Always move to a place where
the driver can see you
150

151. ALL VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Use the standard signals when starting and moving vehicles
START
ONE HORN BLAST
REVERSE FORWARD
THREE HORN BLASTS TWO HORN BLASTS
151

152. ALL VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Pre-operation checks
Conduct a steering and brake test
before entering the decline
152

153. LIGHT VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
All vehicles left unattended underground must be parked
atParking to prevent a runaway.
an angle
153

154. LIGHT VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Angle the wheels away from the wall when facing up the slope
Park in first gear facing up the slope
154

155. LIGHT VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Switch off the engine and apply the park brake
Leave the flashing light on
Parking Rules
Put chocks under the wheel to stop the vehicle moving
155

156. LIGHT VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
When the vehicle is facing down the slope turn
the wheels toward the wall. Engage reverse gear
156

157. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Rules for ALL vehicles
Seatbelts must be worn at all times.
157

158. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Rules for ALL vehicles
Except for the driver, no other person is allowed to ride
in any heavy vehicle unless they are wearing a seatbelt.
158

159. HEAVY VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Rules for ALL vehicles
Maximum speed limit underground for all vehicles is 25 kph
159

160. ALL VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Rules for ALL vehicles
Minimum distance between ALL vehicles no less than 30 m
This rule applies to underground as well as surface vehicles
160

161. ALL VEHICLES UNDERGROUND
Rules for ALL vehicles
Light vehicles must give way to heavy vehicles –
on the surface as well as underground.
161

162. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Portable fire equipment
Dry chemical powder
extinguishers are fitted to
all mobile equipment and
fixed plant underground
162

163. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Portable fire equipment
Dry chemical powder
extinguishers are fitted to all
refuge chambers underground
163

164. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Activation point
Heavy underground equipment is
fitted with fire suppression systems
164

165. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Portable fire equipment
You must know the location
and check the condition of all
extinguishers in your area
165

166. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
If a fire occurs on a
vehicle you must:
• stop the vehicle
• park clear of main travel
ways (if possible)
• shut down the vehicle
• activate the AFFF system if
there is a fire in the engine
or use portable extinguisher
166

167. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Tyre Fires
Tyre fires are caused by dragging brakes or running on flat
tyres.
If a tyre fire occurs, immediately park up, shut down, raise
emergency call, move to clean air or put on the self rescuer
167

168. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
• Use a dry chemical powder extinguisher if there is
ELECTRICAL
FIRES electrical equipment located near the fire.
any live
• Do not use water on fires near electrical equipment
or in areas where there may be live wires.
168

169. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
Out of Control Fires
If you are unable to safety extinguish the fire, you must:
– Evacuate the area
– Notify all personnel in the immediate area to evacuate
– Raise the alarm by following the site emergency protocol
169

170. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
When you are aware of an
emergency through a verbal
warning, radio message, or
stench gas release, make your
way out of the mine.
If you cannot get out of the
mine, make your way to the
nearest fresh air base, intake
rise or refuge chamber.
170

171. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
If fumes are present and your breathing
is affected, put the self rescuer on
immediately.
171

172. UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
UNDERGROUND FIRES AND EVACUATION
When you reach the fresh air base
or intake rise, do not remove the
self rescuer until the air quality and
purity has been established as safe.
You must not leave a refuge
chamber until you have been
given the all clear by Mine
Rescue Team or Supervisor
172

173. EXPLOSIVES EXPLOSIVES
All persons working
around explosives
(including handling,
transport and storage)
must work under the
direction of the Blastman.
No person is allowed to handle
or transport explosives unless
they have completed the appropriate training and
have management authorisation.
173

174. EXPLOSIVES
Explosives Magazines
Explosives are stored in purpose built magazines
Do not enter any explosive magazine unless authorised
No smoking or naked flames within 10m of a magazine
174

175. EXPLOSIVES
FIRING TIMES:
END OF SHIFT
DAY SHIFT 6:00pm to 6:30pm
NIGHT SHIFT 6:00am to 6:30am
NOTE: Mid-shift firing time fits in with surface blasting.
Current Surface blasting time is 1:00pm to 1:30pm
Underground mid-shift firing time 12:30pm to 1:00pm.
175

176. EXPLOSIVES
Once explosives have been fired you must allow time for
the dust and fumes to escape the underground workings.
You are not permitted
to enter underground
until the all clear has
been given
176

177. OPERATIONAL HAZARDS
Compressed Air
Before you work on a compressed air line,
make sure that:
supply has been isolated
isolation valve is tagged
line has been bled
Never point the hose at other people or use it to clean
yourself down
177

178. OPERATIONAL HAZARDS
Water and air lines
Can be under high pressure so before carrying out work
on water lines or air lines, they must be:
• isolated
• tagged
• drained
Check that the couplings and safety clips are secure
178

179. OPERATIONAL HAZARDS
Electric Jumbo Drilling Safety
Warning signs must be in full view.
Vehicles must never drive over jumbo trailing cables or
pump cables.
179

180. CONCLUSION
I AM MY BROTHER’S KEEPER
WE LOOK AFTER EACH OTHER
180

181. THANK YOU
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