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MSHA News Release: [10/01/2002]
Contact Name: Amy
Louviere
Phone Number: (202) 693-9423
MSHA Launches Winter Alert and Focus on Safe Work
Campaign
ARLINGTON, Va. – The
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reminding miners and mine
operators of the increased hazards that colder weather creates at both surface
and underground mines. MSHA’s Winter Alert campaign, which runs annually
from October through March, emphasizes increased vigilance and adherence to
safety principles during winter.
“The risk of underground coal mine explosions increases this time
of year, as do hazards associated with ice and snow that collect at surface
facilities and prep plants,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine
Safety and Health Dave D. Lauriski. “We must all be mindful of the
seasonal changes that can affect our work environments.”
All coal mines contain methane, and when the barometric pressure drops
during colder weather, methane can migrate more easily into the mine
atmosphere, increasing the risk of an explosion. Furthermore, dry winter air
results in drier conditions underground and this makes coal dust more likely to
get suspended in the mine atmosphere, which also can contribute to an
explosion. Limited visibility, slippery walkways and freezing and thawing
highwalls also contribute to potential mishaps during the winter months.
This year’s Winter Alert campaign features a series of posters. The
“Highway to Safety” theme focuses on the prevention of coal mine
explosions, stressing mine examinations, proper ventilation, rock dusting and
mine evacuation. “Don’t Let Winter Put You on Ice” addresses
hazards specific to surface facilities and prep plants.
Throughout the Winter Alert campaign, mine safety and health specialists
will regularly visit mines around the country to heighten awareness to the
changing conditions that take place during the winter months. Managers and
inspectors will distribute materials that focus on “best practices”
for performing miners’ jobs and provide compliance assistance in
developing solutions to health and safety problems that crop up during the
colder months.
A nationwide effort to raise awareness of safety hazards at metal and
nonmetal mines begins at this same time in response to a recent rise in
fatalities. MSHA personnel will visit metal and nonmetal mines to discuss fatal
accidents and encourage mine operators and miners to focus on safe work
procedures. They also will attend regional conferences, seminars and meetings
to share information on hazard recognition.
MSHA personnel will partner with state mining agencies and national and
local industry associations in both the Winter Alert and Focus on Safe Work
outreach programs.
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