Mine workers face danger in their jobs daily, including cave-ins, chemical leaks and gas explosions. Mining firms and mining services companies have implemented measures and deploy modern techniques to improve the safety of their workers. http://www.reaygroup.com.au

1. The Hazards of Mining Work
Miners have one of the toughest and most dangerous jobs in the world. This is because the job
entails the extraction of precious stones and minerals deep within the earth. In addition, miners
use heavy machinery and other specialised equipment and tools that can be risky to operate.
Safety is a major concern in the mining industry. Mining companies and mining services firms
have instituted precautions to ensure the safety and health of their workers. In some modern
mines, automation and remote operation have been implemented for the safety of mine
workers. Examples of these technologies include automated loaders and remotely operated
rockbreakers.
Here are some of the dangers that miners face every day.
Cave-ins, and Ground and Rock Falls
A cave-in occurs when a geologic formation, mine or structure collapses, usually during mining
or tunnelling. This underground mining accident occurs when proper safety measures have not
been done on the walls and ceiling of the mineshaft; It is also caused from subsidence and also
when the mineshaft structure weakens because of cracks in the floor and walls that could occur
if the mineshaft is dug too deeply.
Advanced methods for timbering and bracing walls and ceilings within sub-surface mines have
lowered the number of deaths from cave-ins. However, ground falls still account for a huge
number of mining deaths.
Gas Explosions
Gas explosion is a common accident in coal mines caused by the buildup of methane gas. When
methane gas is ignited, more extensive coal dust explosions can potentially occur. To prevent
pockets of gas from forming, the work area must be properly ventilated at all times. In addition,
make sure the equipment used in coal mines does not have defects that can create sparks and
set off an explosion.
Methane gas and dust explosions can also be triggered by frictional heat and sparks produced
by mining equipment. Because of this, rock cutting sites are cooled with water.
Chemical Leaks
Ores are converted from their natural state into valuable commodities using chemicals. A leak
can occur if the chemicals are not properly stored and mine workers fail to follow strict safety
procedures.

2. Miners using the chemicals must also be provided with good ventilation so they do not run the
risk of inhaling toxic fumes and dust, which can cause long-term health problems.
Electrocution
Miners face the risk of electrocution from using heavy electrical equipment including drills,
industrial machinery and lighting. Broken cables or plugs can easily set off explosions. Damp
mining conditions also make miners vulnerable to electrocution.
Fires
Fires in mining sites can happen due to different factors, including gas leaks, electrical defects,
or flammable chemical spills. More information here.
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