All Downloadable Mining Publications

The aggregates industry faces a number of challenges in the near future, including the loss of experienced mine workers due to retirement, an influx of new, inexperienced workers and more challenging mining conditions. More effective training is needed to reduce injuries of both experienced and inexperienced workers from ever increasing diverse background. The awareness and involvement of the whole workforce needs to be fostered by management, labor and government jointly identifying risk factors, selecting mining practices, implementing mining plans and engineering and administrative controls. (PDF, 6810 KB, 2003-03)

Experiments were conducted with mine conveyor belt samples in a 20-L furnace and in a laboratory fire tunnel to measure and compare the major toxic gas concentrations evolved during the combustion of the materials. The toxic gas concentrations, measured simultaneously through a multiport sampling device and treated as yield values, included hydrogen chloride (HO), hydrogen cyanide (HeN), oxides of nitrogen (NO_x treated as NO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO).  (PDF, 220 KB, 1996)

Sixty years of rockbursting in the Coeur d'Alene district has taught painful lessons and led to a number of practical advances in controlling rockburst hazards. This paper summarizes those lessons, concentrating on practical measures that have been successfully adopted to reduce hazards. (PDF, 409 KB, 2002-02)

An essential element of the Bureau of Mines electromagnetic location and communication system for trapped miners is a quantitative knowledge of the surface and above-surface electromagnetic fields created by an underground transmitter. The field solutions given in this report use approximations in which the displacement currents are negligible for low frequencies. The earth is represented by a homogeneous half-space model in which a dipole source is immersed. The vertical magnetic field equipotential contours at and above the surface are graphically mapped. The volumes of the regions bounded by these contours are directly related to the geometrical zones of signal detectability. Knowledge of the detectability zones will enable the proper search strategies to be developed for airborne detection of trapped miners. (PDF, 342 KB, 1983)

This paper discusses the application of global positioning system (GPS) data, accelerometers, and pressure transducers to provide feedback about equipment operations and identify the cause of truck jolts. (PDF, 794 KB, 2000)

Stability analyses of fractured and faulted rock masses require delineation of the position, extent, and orientation of geologic discontinuities. Recommendations are made for increasing the accuracy and precision of locations of microseismic events detected under similar field conditions. (PDF, 4026 KB, 1992)

Describes a project conducted by the Bureau of Mines in which the accurate directional drilling of a borehole was demonstrated with the objective of intercepting a designated target. The project was conducted at Navajo Dam in northern New Mexico at the request of the Bureau of Reclamation. (PDF, 2520 KB, 1987)

One of the safety and health research programs of the former U.S. Bureau of Mines Pittsburgh Research Center was the evaluation of technology that will provide remote-controlled operation of mechanized equipment in underground room-and-pillar mining. As part of this program, advanced machine navigation and control technologies were developed for underground room-and-pillar and highwall coal mining that can be applied to commercially available mining equipment. (PDF, 1542 KB, 1997)

NIOSH has developed an active proximity warning system called HASARD (Hazardous Area Signaling and Ranging Device) for warning workers as they approach known dangerous areas around heavy mining equipment and other dangerous work zones. HASARD was field tested on a Joy 12 continuous miner, a Komatsu 210 M Haulpak, and on a highwall launch vehicle. HASARD provided warnings as designed and proved to be rugged enough to withstand the harshest of production environments. (PDF, 3100 KB, 2001)

An electromagnetic (EM) system for the location of trapped mine workers at coal-mine (300 m) depths has been developed. The use of such a system in deep mines (1-km depth) requires transmission at extremely low frequencies (ELF) and a reduction in the effective noise level beyond that which can be obtained by acceptable integration times. Automatic-noise-cancellation (ANC) techniques reduce the effective noise level by combining several received signals that contain correlated noise. Such signals can be obtained either from a remote magnetic antenna or a local electric antenna. During Phase III of this program, real ELF noise data were acquired and used to test the ANC algorithms developed during Phase II. (PDF, 3135 KB, 1984)

The functional safety of programmable electronic (PE) mining systems is an international issue and concern. From 1995 to 2001, 11 PE-related mining incidents in the U.S. were reported by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. (PDF, 219 KB, 2003)

Evaluation of the "Advance and Relieve" mining method is described to determine effectiveness for conditions where high horizontal stresses caused long running roof falls resulting in hazardous conditions and the premature abandonment of panels. "Advance and Relieve" mining involves the removal of a pillar of a portion of a pillar during development, creating a cave along one side of the panel.  (PDF, 5767 KB, 2001)

This paper summarizes the modeling efforts conducted by NIOSH in the U.S. and CSIRO in Australia to address various gas management issues encountered in longwall mines using the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and numerical reservoir modeling for gob inertization and gas control for spontaneous combustion, pre-mining degasification of coalbeds, gob gas venthole design and performance evaluation in longwalls, and gas management during development mining.  (PDF, 462 KB, 2008)

Since 1981, Federal mining law has required every miner working in underground coal mines to have a self-contained, self-rescuer (SCSR) available for use in emergencies. Some miners that have escaped from fires using SCSR's have reported that they had to remove their mouthpiece to talk during escape, thus compromising the protection afforded by the SCSR. To address this problem, two-way, FM radios were built into the SCSR to improve the ability to communicate should the miners be separated over relatively short distances. (PDF, 1817 KB, 1994)

Technology is available to assist off-road dump truck drivers in monitoring blind spots near their equipment. NIOSH is evaluating systems based on radar, GPS, RF tags, and cameras. (PDF, 433 KB, 2004)

As part of an on-going study at the Spokane Research Laboratory, several new methods for monitoring slope instabilities are being investigated. This paper describes the potential adaption of systems such as interferometric synthetic aperture radar, imaging spectroscopy, and time-domain reflectometry, to slope monitoring and design. (PDF, 654 KB, 1998)

The purpose of this training is to provide the information necessary to develop an appreciation of the changes that occur with age and an understanding of methods that can be used to reduce the injury risk that may result. (PDF, 12587 KB, 2008-06)

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the median age of the mining workforce is rising faster than the overall U.S. civilian labor force. The Mine Safety and Health Administration reports that the percentage of injured and ill workers who are 45 or older increased steadily from 1988 to 1998. Given this trend, health and safety programs must consider the physiological changes associated with aging when evaluating job tasks and the working environment. (PDF, 171 KB, 2000)

Water spray characteristics, including droplet size and velocity, airborne dust capture potential, and induced airflow quantity for various spray nozzle designs were evaluated to provide basic information for improving spray applications. Test results indicate that there are trade offs between airflow inducement and dust capture efficiency. This information can be utilized to improve the performance of water sprays for reducing airborne dust levels. (PDF, 1837 KB, 2007-07)

This paper describes laboratory experiments in a wind tunnel with a roll crusher to identify relationships among crushing parameters, product size, coal rank properties and airborne dust generation. (PDF, 1143 KB, 2001-06)

A report on research to develop a device that alerts workers when a power line has been contacted by equipment. The approach being investigated is based on measuring electric current flow to ground through a machine during a line contact. (PDF, 275 KB, 2001)

Discusses the evaluation of a seal evaluation method, based on a hydrostatic pressure loading concept, for in-situ testing of seals in an operating mine. (PDF, 6213 KB, 2003-10)

This report analyzes mobile equipment fires for all U.S. surface and underground coal and metal/nonmetal mining categories by state and 2 year time periods during 1990-1999. (PDF, 1240 KB, 2004-01)

A U.S. Bureau of Mines investigation of longwall panel layouts to maximize coal recovery and minimize interactive problems in multiple-seam operations. (PDF, 992 KB, 1992)

This paper summarises the results of a research project whose goal was to provide the Australian coal industry with a rib support design methodology and software tool that could be utilised by suitably qualified colliery staff. (PDF, 286 KB, 2005)

Increasing longwall panel dimensions, particularly face width in gassy coalbeds, may result in unexpected increases in methane emissions. To investigate this problem, continuous longwall face emission monitoring studies were conducted at two adjacent mines operating in the Pocahontas No. 3 Coalbed, where longwall faces were to be extended from 229 to 305 m (750 to 1,000 ft). (PDF, 1919 KB, 1997)

Discusses several flyrock injury incidents at surface mines and construction sites and describes some injury mitigation techniques. (PDF, 133 KB, 2004)

The Bureau of Mines has developed an acoustic test for determining if a rock salt sample is from a "normal" nongassy salt face or from a gassy face where an outburst has the potential to occur. The acoustic test procedure and equipment are described, and raw test results and data analysis are shown. Results are also shown for several salt samples that were analyzed using a laser Raman microprobe. (PDF, 678 KB, 1990)

A case study is presented that relates statistical descriptions of joint sets to the distribution of local wedge failures along the crest of a catch bench at the Yellowstone Talc Mine. (PDF, 575 KB, 2004-05)

The results of a two-year research effort aimed at improving cormnunication systems in coal mines is reported, as well as a review of communication methods presently used in coal mines. Theoretical and-experimental results of a four pronged effort in the areas of (1) through-the-earth propagation, (2) paging system design, (3) improvement of wired telephone systems, and (4) carrier current systems are described. Auxiliary systems not included in the above are considered briefly. (PDF, 6143 KB, 1973-05)

The objective of this is paper is to review the current state of knowledge and practice in highwall mining. (PDF, 1182 KB, 2005)
                                            

This report analyzes mine fires for all U.S. underground and surface metal/nonmetal mining categories during 1990-2001 by state and six successive 2-year time periods. (PDF, 1793 KB, 2004-11)

This report analyzes mine fires for all U.S. underground and surface coal mining categories by state and 2-year time periods during 1990-1999. (PDF, 1611 KB, 2004-09)

NIOSH completed a major study to identify the location and likely severity of multiple seam interactions (undermining and overmining). More than 300 multiple seam case histories were assembled into the largest data base of multiple seam case histories ever collected. These data were analyzed with the multivariate statistical technique of logistic regression, LaM2D to estimate the multiple seam stresses, ALPS and ARMPS to determine pillar stability factors, and the CMRR to measure roof quality. The study resulted in the development of a computer program, called Analysis of Multiple Seam Stability (AMSS), which can help mine planners to evaluate each potential interaction and take steps to reduce the risk of ground control failure.  (PDF, 658 KB, 2007)

This study, conducted as part of a project involving the evaluation of a new type of noise exposure monitoring paradigm, showed the dffects of dosimeter microphone placement in a diffuse field were found to be minor for most of the test microphones/locations. (PDF, 618 KB, 2008-03)

This report examines the effect of oversize particles, cyclone inversion, and cleaning procedures on the Personal Dust Monitor (PDM).  (PDF, 276 KB, 2008)

As underground stone mining expands to deeper cover situations, and more efficient mining methods are utilized, effective stone pillar design methods become more important. Seventy-two stone-mine pillar designs were examined or factors effecting stability and results are presented. (PDF, 1315 KB, 1999-12)

Some of the issues discussed in this article include highwall stability, reasons for early pull out of highwall miner holes, and geotechnical engineering and planning factors and operating practices to improve highwall stability and minimize the risk of a trapped highwall miner. (PDF, 335 KB, 2004-08)

A state-of-the-art, three-dimensional, full waveform, microseismic system was used to analyze the rock failure around a deep bump-prone longwall panel. Analysis of the recorded events is discussed. (PDF, 442 KB, 2001-08)

A statistical study was conducted of roof bolt performance at a number of mines throughout the U.S. Analysis of the results led to guidelines that can be used to make preliminary estimates of the required bolt length, capacity, and pattern to improve roof stability for more difficult conditions. (PDF, 140 KB, 2001-08)

A study was conducted to determine the causes of slope failure and highwall/spoilbank failure and included: a review of accident statistics; a review of mining laws pertaining to surface mining; a literature review; and mine visits. The study emphasized surface mines in West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania. (PDF, 248 KB, 2000-08)

A seismic monitoring system located at NIOSH's Lake Lynn Experimental Mine has monitored experimental gas and dust based explosions and impact tests. The results suggest a large explosion that's not restricted can generate potentially the same magnitude as a small explosion that is restricted. (PDF, 959 KB, 2008)

This report describes serious injuries occurring to bulldozer operators working at U.S. coal, metal, and nonmetal mines. The period covered is 1988-97. (PDF, 344 KB, 2001-04)

To provide a better understanding of the mechanics of strata deformation, the authors have collected and reviewed measurements of convergence and stress in one western U.S. mine and have completed pseudo-three-dimensional, boundary-element modeling for two typical pillar-pulling plans. (PDF, 202 KB, 1998)

This U.S. Bureau of Mines publication is an analysis of 164 underground coal mine fire incidents occurring in the United States during the 15 years from 1978 through 1992. Fires were analyzed by year, State, coalbed thickness, mine size, mining method, ignition source, burning substance, location, equipment involved, detection method, time of day, time of year, number of injuries and fatalities, method of extinguishment, and evacuation measures taken. (PDF, 5674 KB, 1995)

A summary of past analyses that are relevant to electromagnetic location in mine rescue situations. The analytical results indicated that detection of a trapped miner equipped with a special transmitter is feasible in most situations. Location of the miner by surface measurements is also generally feasible within certain errors.  (PDF, 4916 KB, 1974-12-02)

NIOSH researchers used motion analysis data and digital human models to evaluate factors that precipitate struck-by injuries in the operation of remote continuous mining machines. (PDF, 165 KB, 2008)

Despite its potential importance, there is no widely accepted anchorage test for fully grouted roof bolts. Recent studies using short encapsulation pull tests are described. (PDF, 864 KB, 2002-08)

This report covers antenna deslgn, analysis, and development work suited for use with a wireless radio communication system operating at medium frequency. The work includes the test and evaluation of prototype vehicular antennas developed during the program. (PDF, 3045 KB, 1978)

A collaboration between the U.S. Bureau of Mines and Michigan Technological University to develop an apparatus for measuring diesel tailpipe emissions in underground mines. (PDF, 1483 KB, 1992)

Electromagnetic narrow-band signals were transmitted through the earth at 27 coal mines located throughout the United States. From those tests, apparent earth conductivity values were derived based upon a homogeneous half-space model of the earth. The derived conductivity values were found to be inversely proportional to the transmitted frequency and mine depth. A linear regression model relating the logarithm of the conductivity to the mine depth was formulated, and the results indicate that the mine depth can be an adequate predictor of the apparent earth conductivity above coal mines. Apparent earth conductivity was found to decrease with mine depths. (PDF, 977 KB, 1984)

This paper provides detailed information on the findings of NIOSH research measuring the sound power level generated by a horizontal vibrating screen with the screen either directly on the floor or on rubber isolation pads. (PDF, 2397 KB, 2008)

This paper discusses the methods NIOSH used to identify noise sources on a roof bolting machine while drilling. (PDF, 3036 KB, 2007)
                                        

This paper describes Bureau of Mines research and development of a new and innovative mine lighting system based on fiber optics technology. The new lighting concept offers significant advantages over conventional systems in the areas of both safety and long-term maintenance costs. An overview of Bureau research into the problems and limitations of present-day mine lighting systems is also presented. (PDF, 616 KB, 1986)

This paper presents a discussion of the firefighting approach at the Excel No. 3 Mine and an analysis of the results of the application of gas-enhanced foam technology. (PDF, 1881 KB, 2005)

The objective of this study was to test the capability of ground penetrating radar to determine the extent of grout penetration into the mine roof strata in the 13-G room area of the NIOSH Safety Research Coal Mine. The study showed that GPR technology can be a useful tool for detecting changes in mine roof due to the injection of the grout. (PDF, 1051 KB, 2004-08)

This NIOSH pilot project demonstrated that US mines have the capability to successfully implement an MHRA and that the basic requirement for a successful MHRA is the desire to become more proactive in reducing risks associated with events that can cause multiple fatalities. (PDF, 1862 KB, 2008-10)

This paper examines the effect of end conditions and load profiles on prop support performance and applies a new analysis methodology based on eccentric loading to determine a factor of safety for load capacity. Recommendations for installation practices that minimize eccentricity and therefore preserve capacity are also provided. (PDF, 304 KB, 2007)

NIOSH is conducting research to identify and control dominant noise sources in Continuous Miners. The objectives of the work presented in this paper were: 1) To rank the noise radiated by the different sections of the conveyor, and 2) to determine the effect of a urethane-coated tail roller on the noise radiated by the tail-section. (PDF, 427 KB, 2008)

An investigation of the hazards in and around ore passes in hard rock mines. Risk assessment methods, such as fault-tree analysis, have been employed to identify the most probable causes of ore-pass failures, define research priorities and analyze the factors that result in malfunctioning and unsafe ore passes. (PDF, 903 KB, 1997)

This paper describes the quiet-by-design approach of a noise control that reduced noise exposures of continuous mining machine operators by 3dB(A) using the four functional areas of Prevention through Design (PTD), namely Practice, Policy, Research, and Education. (PDF, 146 KB, 2008)

New developments in radio frequency identification (RFID) systems show promise for reducing the number of collisions between haulage equipment and pedestrian workers or other vehicles. This paper describes tests conducted on off-the-shelf RFID systems and the subsequent development of a custom RFID system that could be used for both surface and underground mining equipment. (PDF, 181 KB, 2001)

The Coal Mine Roof Rating (CMRR) has been widely accepted as a tool for geologic characterization and mine planning. The application of the CMRR to extended cuts (cuts greater that 6 m (20 ft) in length) is discussed. (PDF, 313 KB, 1999-04)

Several remote sensing technologies are being evaluated as tools to assess slope stability and monitor slopes for hazards. An interferometric radar device capable of detecting very small displacements on slopes has been assembled and tested. (PDF, 1440 KB, 2004)

This paper summarizes developments in the application of ground-based radar to slope stability monitoring and presents information on NIOSH-sponsored experiments recently completed. Field tests of a hyperspectral imager were conducted to assess its value for improving geologic maps of potentially unstable alteration zones on mine slopes (McHugh and others, 2001). Computerized monitoring methods using images from digital and video cameras are being assessed for application to mine slope surveillance. (PDF, 7065 KB, 2006-04)

The point estimation method is a computationally efficient approach for estimating the probability of sliding. This method expedites slope stability simulation routines used by NIOSH software to stochastically describe rock slope behavior and assist the engineer in designing catch benches for large rock slopes. Enhanced bench design translates into increased operational efficiency and safer working conditions in open pit mines and quarries. (PDF, 1713 KB, 2004)

This paper describes the use of four sources of data (injury records, the Nordic Standardized Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, supervisor interviews and management concerns) to prioritize jobs for ergonomic analysis. (PDF, 356 KB, 2001)

Rock drilling parameters including thrust, rotational speed, torque and velocity were examined to determine the ability to identify the strength of the rocks being drilled from the measured parameters. (PDF, 724 KB, 2000)

This study proposes a principle component analysis (PCA) and artificial neural network (ANN) approach to predict the ventilation methane emission rates of U.S. longwall mines and the optimum combination of degasification boreholes based on the given characteristics of the mine. (PDF, 169 KB, 2008)

This paper introduces various warning signs of slope instability so operators are better able to recognize hazards. The most common slope monitoring equipment and practical methods of installation are discussed as well as the limitations of these systems. (PDF, 413 KB, 2001-08)

A methodology to assess the risk for a roof fall is proposed in a preliminary fashion based on engineering judgment acquired from extensive underground stone mine experience and examination of related literature. The proposed method uses an observational technique to identify the risk of roof falls in three categories. (PDF, 201 KB, 2006-03-27)

The Bureau of Mines investigated coal storage silos to determine how gassy coal must be for methane accumulations in a silo to become hazardous and where such accumulations are likely to occur. Methane concentrations were measured in the open space above the stored coal pile, in the pile, and in the reclaiming area. (PDF, 394 KB, 1981)

A research program was implemented to: 1) determine, characterize and to measure sound power levels radiated by a roof bolting machine during differing drilling configurations (thrust, rotational speed, penetration rate, etc.) and utilizing differing types of drilling methods in high compressive strength rock media (>20,000 psi); 2) distinguish and correlate the empirical data into one, statistically valid, equation, in which, provided the mining industry with a tool to predict overall sound power levels of a roof bolting machine given any type of drilling configuration and drilling method utilized in industry; 3) provide the mining industry with several approaches to predict or determine sound pressure levels in an underground coal mine utilizing laboratory test results from a roof bolting machine and 4) describe a method for determining an operators' noise dosage of a roof bolting machine utilizing predicted or determined sound pressure levels. (PDF, 3609 KB, 2006)

Dust control modifications were implemented on small, truck-mounted rock drills at surface coal mines. The control techniques showed noticeable improvement in measured dust concentrations around the drills. (PDF, 1400 KB, 1995)

This report describes an investigation by NIOSH researchers to quantify sound levels and to determine the amount of sound reduction provided by engineering noise controls installed in a talc processing plant. (PDF, 800 KB, 2008)

A summary is presented of existing leaky feeder communications systems currently in operation in North America. Background information pertaining to previous use of leaky feeder technology is discussed along with the survey methodology. Seven sites representing eight mines are included in the survey. (PDF, 556 KB, 1980)

This Bureau of Mines research study found gas emission rates from an advancing face, and flows and pressure of gas from an exploration drill hole were dependent upon the geology of salt encountered in a domal salt mine. This information suggests a greater methane emission hazard from the anomalous zone than from the associated normal salt. (PDF, 33349 KB, 1984)

The noise-control treatments most commonly observed on drills and bolters during this study were evaluated on machines at underground metal mines to determine the amount of noise reduction achieved by each control. (PDF, 1102 KB, 2005-01)

Field studies have been conducted in a large number of coal mines throughout the U.S. to determine the effectiveness of electromagnetic techniques in locating men trapped underground following a mine disaster. Results indicate an expected 45% probability of detecting a miner's signal from a depth of 1,000 ft and a 90% probability at a depth of 500 ft. (PDF, 773 KB, 1980)

Two recent studies evaluated workers' dust exposures in automated pallet loading processes. The first study involved a Bureau-designed dust control system using a push-pull ventilation technique. The second study evaluated different commercial automated pallet-loading systems. Results from a ground silica evaluation site indicated respirable dust samples taken were below the threshold limit value as established by the Mine Safety and Health Adminstration. (HTML, KB, 1990)

A U.S. Bureau of Mines study on the potential availability of copper from 204 mines and deposits in market economy countries. (PDF, 2199 KB, 1992)
                          

This article gives contractors steps to take to prevent the leading on-the-job killer in the water well industry - electricity. (PDF, 403 KB, 2005-08)
                        

This article discusses research results of studies that shed light on possible mechanisms through which low back injuries may occur and how this knowledge can be leveraged to reduce the risk of low back pain. (PDF, 597 KB, 2007)

A system to reduce occupational dust exposure during bag loading and stacking operations in the metal mining industry was developed. The system, known as the Bag and Belt Cleaner Device (B&BCD), was developed by NIOSH, and designed to clean the surfaces of 50 and 100 pound (lb) bags and conveyor belts while the bags were transported to stacking locations. (PDF, 339 KB, 1997-03)

Although MSHA still mandates instruction in barricading, greater emphasis is now placed on teaching miners to use SCSRs proficiently and to be knowledgeable about their escape routes. Only recently has at least one mine operator begun to revisit barricading as an alternative to escape. (PDF, 1020 KB, 1997-11)

This paper describes research designed to quantify the behavior of a particular size abutment pillar prone to burst or bump (local terminology). This information reflects the overriding influence of the local geologic characteristics on bursts, provides the field measurements needed to verify concurrent modelling studies, and suggests some basic mechanisms associated with coal pillar bursts. (PDF, 516 KB, 1990-08)

Gas occurs in coalbeds in an adsorbed and a free gas state. Adsorbed gas is stored in the micropore structure and its transport is governed by Fick's law. The free gas occurs in the fracture system and flows according to Darcy's law. These two modes of mass transport are interdependent. Production decline curves of coal-gas wells are of the constant percentage decline type and, thus, show no indications of flow characteristics peculiar to coal-gas reservoirs. The effectiveness of surface boreholes as a degasification scheme depends upon both good fracture permeability and a high fracture density. Conventional methods of reservoir engineering analysis are not applicable to coalbeds. (PDF, 1022 KB, 1969)

In this study, 10-lb charges of blasting agent confined in either thin-wall 4-in-diam galvanized pipe or 4-in schedule 80 stainless steel pipe were detonated in a closed chamber. detonation gases were analyzed for nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide (NO), ammonia, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, and methane. Data were evaluated to determine the kinetics of the oxidation of NO to nitrogen dioxide. The information on NO oxidation kinetics provided will prove useful in efforts to model the behavior of NO and nitrogen dioxide in clouds of detonation products near blasting operations. (PDF, 158 KB, 2006-01)

This report presents results of a U.S. Bureau of Mines study of longwall gob material. The objective of this work was to determine material stiffness properties of the gob for use in numerical models or rock mass response to longwall mining. (PDF, 5208 KB, 1993)

A scientific study of human behavior during an escape from a fire in an effort to understand and derive benefits for design, engineering and safety efforts. (PDF, 1291 KB, 2000-05)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines established a wire rope research laboratory to examine the factors that affect the life of wire rope. The tests indicated that once a wire rope nears the end of its service life, both deterioration and the consequent loss of rope strength begin to increase at an accelerated rate. (PDF, 2451 KB, 1992)

Injury data are presented that show a dramatic reduction in roof skin injuries when screening is used. Five case studies in which roof screen was used are presented along with the associated costs of materials, impact on bolting advance rates, and potential ergonomic risks. The effects of roof screening on skin control and safety are also included. Finally, this paper provides information about best practices and features of roof bolting machines that affect production and safety. (PDF, 141 KB, 2003)

Based on their findings, the task group offered several best practice recommendations that a mine may want to follow to implement a successful ceramic DPM filter program. The best practices identified are believed to be key elements for implementation of a successful effort using ceramic filters.  (PDF, 1235 KB, 2007)

This paper presents an overview of the most significant ground control hazards facing today's mineworkers, as well as best practices to reduce these risks. (PDF, 1971 KB, 2000)

Twelve subjects participated in an investigation of the biomechanical stresses of asymmetric lifting in stooped and kneeling postures. Three factors were manipulated in this study: posture (stooped or kneeling), height of lift (35 or 70 cm), and weight of lift (15, 20 or 25 kg). (PDF, 258 KB, 1997)

This paper describes the development of a multi-body biomechanical model that can be used to assess the risk of low back disorders due to occupational exposure to jarring and jolting from operation of heavy mobile equipment (e.g., trucks, haulers, graders, tractors, etc.) (PDF, 246 KB, 2003-08)

This project investigates the behavior of blast waves from the detonation of high explosives in an underground mine. (PDF, 747 KB, 1995)
                                   

This paper describes several fatal injury case studies, analyzes causative factors, and emphasizes preventive measures. (PDF, 380 KB, 2004-01)
                                

This paper examines the factors related to injuries due to inadequate blasting shelters and blast area security, and identifies mitigation techniques. (PDF, 120 KB, 2005)

A detailed description of blasting-related carbon monoxide migration from a construction site into nearby residential homes. (PDF, 1780 KB, 2004)
                           

Air quantity-pressure and methane concentration surveys were conducted in accessible portions of an area being pillared in a Pittsburgh coalbed mine in West Virginia. These included two mined-out and three active butt headings and a bleeder system. The particular mine workings were started in virgin coal directly from a set of main headings; the main reason for the study was the difficulty usually encountered in adequately bleeding the gobs under such conditions. (PDF, 597 KB, 1973)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines conducted a worldwide literature review of bleederless ventilation practices to evaluate their use as a spontaneous combustion control measure in U.S. coal mines. This report describes the types of ventilation systems used throughout the world and the spontaneous combustion risks associated with these systems. (PDF, 3168 KB, 1994)

The San Juan Mine and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health conducted a study to measure how development mining affected bolt loads. (PDF, 600 KB, 2004)

This paper compares the fatigue failure responses of older versus younger lumbar spine cadaver motion segment specimens. (PDF, 75 KB, 2005)
                               

This report describes the feasibility test of an electromagnetic method for locating boreholes, with or without casing, that have been drilled in conjunction with mining operations but without precisely known locations with respect to the tunnel. The demonstration tests were done at ranges on the order of 100 to 200 feet, but the method is capable of working at much greater distances. (PDF, 4827 KB, 1978)

This paper describes the results of a NIOSH borehole monitoring experiment (BME) on an active longwall panel. (PDF, 459 KB, 2008-06)
                                          

Researchers with NIOSH studied the electrical equipment ignition sources for the Brookwood and other disasters to develop recommendations for preventing similar disasters.  (PDF, 373 KB, 2007)

The purpose of this project was to enhance the Bureau of Mine's Cableless Electronic Survey System use to aid in the drilling of long boreholes in coal as part of the methane drainage program. The system that was ultimately developed was field tested and demonstrated in actual in-mine drilling activities. The significance of the system, compared with previous drill survey systems, is that it surveys without having to be inserted and removed for each survey point. The system is so designed that it can withstand the shock and vibration experienced by the drill string during drilling. Thus increased productivity is possible and drill operators can determine drill bit positioning in a near real-time environment. (PDF, 6464 KB, 1981)

This paper presents data and theorem to calculate the risk of experiencing undesirable lightning related events while blasting or while engaged in other lightning sensitive activities. The paper provides an overview of lightning hazards in blasting operations and a brief history of lightning related blasting accidents. (PDF, 1001 KB, 1998)

The Bureau of Mines developed a computerized method to calculate vertical stress exerted on surfaces at depth that includes the effect or topography. The limitation of the method is that stresses cannot be accurately determined near an outcrop. (PDF, 4167 KB, 1992)

Roof and floor contact pressure provided by the interaction of a shield with the surrounding strata are examined. Controlled forces were applied to an 800-ton two-leg shield using a mine roof simulator. (PDF, 4632 KB, 1992)

NIOSH, RAG Pennsylvania and Strata Control Technologies of Australia collaborated in an intensive study of ground behavior, reinforcement performance, and stress redistribution at the Emerald Mine in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The study site was a longwall tailgate subjected to a severe horizontal stress concentration. A computer simulation of the field site was conducted using FLAC-2D. Comparison between actual field measurements and the simulation showed that the model was able to capture the most significant aspects of the roof and support system behavior. The model also showed that supplementing the normal roof bolt support pattern with cable bolts would allow the entry to survive a further 20-25% increase in the applied horizontal stress. (PDF, 1254 KB, 2007)

Instrumented cable bolts were used in conjunction with existing ground control to monitor rock mass loads at various field sites. Axial and shear loads were determined by strain gauges as these loads were transferred to instrumented cable bolts. Cable bolt performance, quality of grout, and installation techniques were also assessed. By monitoring load on and discplacement of the rock mass, more effective ground support can be selected and installed, which will lead to safer working conditions for miners. (PDF, 3413 KB, 2001-07)

This paper presents the results of a case study conducted in a two-entry gateroad in a coal mine where excessive roof deformation and bolt loading resulted in failure of many roof supports. (PDF, 803 KB, 1998)

An analysis of roof bolting tasks was conducted at a mine to identify early warning signs of cumulative trauma. Health and safety risk factors were identified and recommendations to reduce cumulative trauma exposure were provided. (PDF, 426 KB, 2001)

Based on a comprehensive data base of mining accidents, a computerized catastrophe model has been developed by the Bureau of Mines which systematically links individual psychological, group behavioral, and mine environmental variables with other accident causing factors. It answers several longstanding questions about why some normally safe behaving persons may spontaneously engage in unsafe acts that have high risks of serious injury. (PDF, 1969 KB, 1988)

This paper examines catastrophic failures of evaporite mines (including salt, potash and trona) that show that violent failure does, in fact, occur and attempts to identify common factors and characterize the mechanism of failure. (PDF, 772 KB, 2008)

This report presents a Bureau of Mines study to identify the causes of self-heating events beneath the floor of a deep underground coal mine. The combined results led to the conclusion that pyrite oxidation was the prime cause of the heatings. (PDF, 4994 KB, 1992)

A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) program was used to model buoyancy induced Product-Of-Combustion (POC) spread from experimental fires in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL), safety research coal mine. (PDF, 384 KB, 1999)

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) program was applied to fire spread along combustibles in a ventilated mine entry. The rate of flame spread was evaluated for the ribs and roof of a coal mine entry, timber sets, and a conveyor belt. The CFD program predicted a flame spread rate of 0.0145 m/sec for an actual coal mine fire in which the estimated flame spread rate was 0.0086 m/sec. This overestimated flame spread rate was a possible consequence of the presence of inert materials in the mine entrys roof and ribs. (PDF, 178 KB, 2006)

In the present study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) program is used as a design tool to model floor-level fires in a ventilated tunnel. (PDF, 397 KB, 2001)

This paper presents some findings obtained from interviews with coal miners about why supervisors sometimes fail to enforce an important mine safety rule. It also contains a few suggestions addressing what could be done to help supervisors perform this job function more effectively. (PDF, 107 KB, 1999)

Organizational practices have changed dramatically in recent years. To compete more effectively, many companies have restructured themselves and downsized their workforces, increased their reliance on nontraditional employment practices that depend on temporary workers and contractor-supplied labor, and adopted more flexible and lean production technologies. These revolutionary changes in the organization of work have far outpaced our understanding of their implications for work life quality and safety and health on the job. (PDF, 487 KB, 2002)

 (PDF, 2516 KB, 2004-12)

This study used microseismic emissions to help identify three local rock failure processes. It was also shown that analysis of microseismic emissions can aid in assessing the degree of instability associated with these local rock failure processes. (PDF, 312 KB, 2005)

Ultrasonic ranging sensors are inexpensive, have no moving parts, have no lenses to clean, are normally small and unobtrusive, and can measure distances through moderate amounts of dust, smoke, and humidity, so they are well suited to underground mines. In the work reported here, conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines, researchers tesed ultrasonic ranging sensors for their ability to define rib line features for computer-aided navigation of underground mine mobile equipment. (PDF, 3008 KB, 1993)

Investigation of the geologic and mining factors influencing the migration of longwall gob gas with a goal to optimize methane drainage strategies to reduce the volume of gob gas that reaches the underground workplace. (PDF, 175 KB, 1999)

A system that ties acceleration data with Global Positioning System (GPS) data was developed, assembled and tested to track the frequency and causes of jolting and jarring of heavy equipment operators. Such information could provide feedback to truck operators about how their driving affects jolting and jarring and identify the location of haulage road problems. (PDF, 568 KB, 1999)

The objective of this paper is to identify and characterize nanometer and ultrafine aerosols emitted by diesel engines in the underground environment and evaluate the effects of selected contemporary control technologies on physical properties, chemical composition, and in-vitro toxicology of diesel aerosols. (PDF, 342 KB, 2007)

This article introduces a one-page checklist for evaluating cab design of construction equipment. The cab design evaluation checklist was developed, pilot-tested, and used to measure several characteristics of cab design. A case study is presented in which overall cab design scores were calculated for each type of equipment. (PDF, 45 KB, 2003)

Report on a NIOSH study to identify factors that may contribute to nitrogen oxides (NOx) production associated with non-ideal detonation of blasting agents. (PDF, 1147 KB, 2002-02)

The Bureau of Mines investigated the physical characteristics of and roof instability problems associated with clay veins. This was accomplished by observing and mapping clay veins in surface and underground mines. The occurrence and origins of clay veins were also investigated to determine predictive capabilities. (PDF, 3464 KB, 1987)

This report addresses issues involved in using a limited number of training apparatus to give hands-on self- contained self-rescuer (SCSR) training to a succession of miners, and provides guidance regarding methods for minimizing the spread of infectious diseases. (PDF, 928 KB, 1989)

The natural vertical fracture system in bituminous coalbeds is called cleat. Cleat orientation commonly controls the direction of mining with major development paralleling the face cleat. Previous researchers have categorized the origin of cleat as endogenetic, relating the origin of cleat to compaction and coalification, and exogenetic, relating the origin of cleat to tectonic forces. In the coalbeds studied for this report it was found that tectonic forces were the controlling factor of cleat formation. Cleat orientation in other bituminous coalbeds in Virginia, Utah, Oklahoma, and central Pennsylvania showed a relationship to local structure. Directional permeability of coal is directly related to cleat. Holes drilled perpendicular to the face cleat yield from 2.5 to 10 times the amount of gas released as compared with holes drilled perpendicular to the butt cleat. (PDF, 1031 KB, 1974)

During a recent NIOSH field evaluation of a newly designed filtration and pressurization system for an enclosed cab of a surface drill, it was determined that the drill operator's respirable-dust exposure was significantly increased during time periods when the cab door was opened to manually guide another section of drill steel into place. An alternative method is being investigated to guide the drill steel in place in order to eliminate this increased exposure. (PDF, 817 KB, 2007-10)

Dirty worker clothing has been identified as a source of exposure to respirable dust. If this respirable dust contains silica it may cause the inhaler to develop Silicosis, an irreversible lung disease. NIOSH and Unimin Corporation, the largest manufacturer of silica sand in the United States, have developed a new method for cleaning dusty work clothes.  (PDF, 804 KB, 2004)

Five mine fire experiments were conducted in a 2.08-m-high, 2.90-m-wide ventilated mine entry in NIOSH's Safety Research Coal Mine to determine the effect of the dispersion of carbon monoxide (CO) on mine fire detection. The criterion that the mine fire alarms occur within 15 min of the onset of flaming combustion could not be consistently met with the 10-ppm CO alarm. This suggests the use of lower CO alarm values or reduced CO sensor spacings for mine fire protection. It is demonstrated how computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be used to model the CO dispersion downwind from the fire in support of a plan to optimize sensor spacings. (PDF, 338 KB, 2006-06)

A general overview of the blasting and CO monitoring of a highway construction project is presented and discussed. The use and effectiveness of residential type CO monitors and multi-gas monitors are discussed. (PDF, 1480 KB, 2004)

The document contains the printed material that is part of the training package Coaching Skills for On-The-Job Trainers. It describes how to develop or manage an on-the-job training program so that information is passed on from trainer/coach to trainee efficiently and effectively. (PDF, 1702 KB, 2005)

This study presents a numerical investigation of geological discontinues in the coalbed using reservoir simulations of the effects of partings and permeability facies and lithotype changes on the production performances of vertical and horizontal degasification boreholes, as well as the emissions during longwall operations.  (PDF, 571 KB, 2008)

Mining Facts are one-page mining fact sheets covering a variety of topics of general interest relating to mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 179 KB, 2003-06)

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) defines an independent contractor as "any person, partnership, corporation, subsidiary of a corporation, firm, association or other organization that contracts to perform services or construction at a mine." Contractors that perform specific types of work are required to report the number of employees who perform work at coal mines and at noncoal mines. (PDF, 187 KB, 2004-01)

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) defines an independent contractor as "any person, partnership, corporation, subsidiary of a corporation, firm, association or other organization that contracts to perform services or construction at a mine." Contractors that perform specific types of work are required to report the number of employees who perform work at coal mines and at noncoal mines. (PDF, 195 KB, 2005-02)

This 2004 mining fact sheet covers statistics of general interest relating to contract workers at surface and underground coal mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 75 KB, 2007-09)

This article describes the Coal Dust Explosibility Meter (CDEM), a hand-held instrument developed by NIOSH, which uses optical reflectance to measure the explosibility of a rock dust and coal dust mixture, which is now commercially available. (PDF, 198 KB, 2008-06)

This paper reports US Bureau of Mines (USBM) research on the explosibility of coal dusts. The purpose of this work is to improve safety in mining and other industries that process or use coal. (PDF, 861 KB, 1996-01)

The accumulation of coal dust in underground coal mines can be rendered nonexplosible by adding efficient quantities of inert rock dust, such as limestone dust. NIOSH has devised a prototype handheld instrument that can provide a direct assessment of the potential explosibility of a coal and rock dust mixture. (PDF, 1759 KB, 1997-10)

NIOSH and MSHA conducted a joint survey to determine the range of coal particle sizes found in dust samples collected from intake airways of U.S. coal mines. (PDF, 56 KB, 2006-08)

NIOSH and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) conducted a joint survey to determine the range of coal particle sizes found in dust samples collected from intake airways of US coal mines. The results indicate that particle sizes of mine coal dust in intake airways are finer than those measured in the 1920s. This finer size coal dust in intake airways would require more incombustible matter to be effectively inerted than the 65% incombustible specified in current regulations.  (PDF, 742 KB, 2007-07)

Information was collected on the geologic conditions, mining techniques, and engineering parameters at five bump-prone mines. Two geologic conditions have been found to cause the occurrence of bumps in the eastern United States: (1) relatively thick overburden and (2) extremely rigid strata occurring immediately above and below the mine coalbed. Additionally, the probability of bump occurrence is increased by certain mining practices that concentrate stresses during retreat mining in areas where geologic conditions are conducive to bumps. Mining plans that permit the development of pillar line points or long roof spans that project over gob areas should be avoided because these features may contribute to the occurrence of bumps. (PDF, 3464 KB, 1987)

This paper reviews 11 prevention control techniques for coal mine bursts. (PDF, 468 KB, 2008)
                                                                              

The tragic events at the Darby, Alma, Sago, and Brookwood No. 5 coal mines have highlighted the need for reliable communications between miners working inside a mine and those outside. (PDF, 351 KB, 2006)

Describes the procedures and thought processes used by coal mine geologists when determining various mineability and reserve extraction feasibility issues. The paper also address underground geologic hazard mapping and prediction techniques. (PDF, 152 KB, 2006)

The focus of this paper is the use of a GAG 3A jet engine system to either combat large out-of-control fires or render an entire mine inert when access to problem areas is difficult or impossible. (PDF, 941 KB, 2005-06)

Discusses past NIOSH research that has helped to reduce hazards, accidents, and health issues in mining, as well as current NIOSH research priorities and the impact of the MINER Act of 2006. (PDF, 515 KB, 2006)

Research on techniques that will reduce the hazards in the mining workplace associated with coal bumps. (PDF, 301 KB, 2000)
                                                

This paper presents several case studies in which a mechanics-based boundary-element program is used to back-calculate the surface subsidence associated with various panels at several northern Appalachian coal mines. (PDF, 448 KB, 1999)

This paper describes the findings of a project that was developed to systematically document how workers react to wearing the PDM and evaluate how it is used on the job.  (PDF, 188 KB, 2008-04)

Mining Facts are one-page mining fact sheets covering a variety of topics of general interest relating to mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 183 KB, 2003-04)

In 2002, a total of 2,065 coal mining operations reported employment to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Coal mines comprised 14.2% of all mining operations. Bituminous mines comprised 92.5% (n = 1,910) and anthracite mines 7.5% (n = 155) of coal mining operations. More than 70% of all coal mines were located in three states: Kentucky (28.7%), West Virginia (21.7%), and Pennsylvania (20.1%). (PDF, 190 KB, 2004-01)

Mining Facts are one-page mining fact sheets covering a variety of topics of general interest relating to mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 193 KB, 2005-02)

This 2004 mining fact sheet covers statistics of general interest relating to surface and underground coal mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 76 KB, 2007-09)

Proper seat design is an important consideration in reducing the adverse effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure to vehicle operators. This study compared NIOSH and existing seat designs on low- and mid-coal seam shuttle cars. This paper focuses on seat designs for the mid-coal seam shuttle car and compares subjective comfort data collected from five vehicle operators with ISO 2631 - based reduced comfort boundary (RCB) analysis of recorded vibration levels. (PDF, 7595 KB, 2006)

This report describes a multipurpose borehole used for both degasification and the production of commercial-quality gas. The multipurpose borehole was drilled into a barrier pillar, and seven horizontal degasification holes and one pressure point hole were drilled radially out from its perimeter. This study indicates that horizontal boreholes drilled into a coalbed from the bottom of any shaft will effectively remove gas from the Pittsburgh coalbed. (PDF, 1005 KB, 1975)

Multiple versions of an educational message can reach a diverse population more effectively than a single version. For instance, some workers are trained in formal classrooms while others are self-taught. This paper will describe additional advantages and disadvantages of different delivery systems and will show what considerations are helpful in designing content that can be readily adapted to alternate presentations. (PDF, 492 KB, 2002-09)

Advanced communication and monitoring systems were developed and demonstrated in three underground mines representing different mining techniques, geographical areas, and material mined.  (PDF, 20021 KB, 1981-11)

An environment monitoring and communication system has been installed in the Bruceton Mine, and research is under way to improve mine safety. Standard day-to-day mine communications are available, along with additional systems installed to permit experimentation with wireless radio, through-the-earth phones, along-the-roof paging, and mine face machinery communications. Research is continuing and the essential concepts for a dependable whole mine communication system, providing simple environment monitoring, improved day-to-day communications and post-disaster communications, will be demonstrated in a larger mine with about 900 feet of overburden. (PDF, 541 KB, 1972)

The lack of good communication is a very real problem in mine emergencies. Sometimes critical information is not communicated to those who need it to make decisions. At other times, those on the receiving end of a warning do not think to ask the right questions. The authors interviewed 48 workers who escaped three serious fires in western Pennsylvania. In each case the location of the fire was known but did not get communicated to many of those who had to evacuate. (PDF, 562 KB, 2007-01)

This paper presents the results of a hypothetical cost comparison analysis of the PDM with the current MSHA-required coal mine dust personal sampling unit (CMDPSU).  (PDF, 340 KB, 2008-07)

This paper presents the results of a side-by-side comparison of the respirable dust dosimeter and gravimetric respirable dust sampler in a controlled experimental environent in the laboratory and in underground coal mines under normal operating conditions. (PDF, 272 KB, 2001-01)

An evaluation of the comparative responses of five types of commercially available smoke detectors and a diffusion-mode CO detector under normal and reduced airflow conditions. (PDF, 1000 KB, 1996)

The objective of this paper is to compare the results among (1) a NIOSH published standard to determine the mass of EC and OC on filter samples, (2) the aethalometer, which uses light extinction to measure "black carbon" or BC, and (3) measuring particle size distributions using a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) to investigate the role of OC when measuring the mass concentration of elemental carbon (or black carbon) in aerosols emitted by a medium-duty Diesel engine. (PDF, 2673 KB, 2007-04)

This document describes the decision factors that bear on the selection of the modulation process for the wireless underground medium frequency (MF) comunication system.  (PDF, 924 KB, 1978-10)

Survival analysis techniques were used to compare the fatigue failure responses of elderly motion segments to a middle-aged sample. It was concluded that younger motion segments survive considerably longer when exposed to similar spine loading conditions that simulate repetitive lifting in neutral and flexed torso postures, primarily associated with the increased bone mineral content possessed by younger motion segments. (PDF, 239 KB, 2007-08)

Ground conditions at 10 Australian longwall mines and two room-and-pillar mines are compared with an extensive data base from U.S. mines. The comparisons include the Coal Mine Roof Rating, roof support installed, pillar design, and an in-depth discussion of ground control conditions. (PDF, 507 KB, 1998-08)

This field study evaluated a newer and older dozer at a construction site. Jolting and jarring measurements were taken at the seat/operator interface and at the floor of the cab. The result of this field study indicates that the newer dozer was better than the older dozer. (PDF, 202 KB, 2003)

This paper contains the results of an examination of accident, injury, employment, and production information reported to the U.S. Department of Labor's Mines Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and provides information on some of the measures longwall mine operators are using to prevent accidents. (PDF, 724 KB, 1998)

An evaluation of strategies for monitoring methane levels during roof bolting in an extended cut entry. (PDF, 145 KB, 1999-04)
                                                

This paper contrasts the full-scale explosion and hydrostatic testing of mine seals using a simple dynamic system model and principles. (PDF, 785 KB, 2008-09)

A report on research to determine the alarm times of smoke and carbon monoxide sensors and a point type heat sensor to slowly developing coal-conveyor belt fires. (PDF, 505 KB, 1995)

Rock hang-ups are a problem in ore pass operations. Rock flows through an ore pass by gravity but hang-ups can occur due to bridging of larger rock particles. Hang-ups also occur if cohesive fine rock particles are present. The result is a production stoppage, where secondary blasting or other relief is required where human safety is at risk. Existing ore pass design criteria rules-of-thumb using current particle flow equations are reviewed and a comparison of two computer modeling programs, Working Model (WM 2-D) and PFC2d, to simulate rock flow are investigated. (PDF, 718 KB, 2003-02)

The purposes of this paper are to analyze the performance and dynamic response of driver/operator when subjected to different levels of vibration due to rough road conditions depicted in a mine field, and to quantify the energy transmission in the presence of seat padding with special characteristics and active suspension.  (PDF, 98 KB, 2008)

This Bureau of Mines report describes and compares the procedures, capital investments, and operating costs of rotary and in-hole motor drilling techniques used to drain methane gas from the Pittsburgh coalbed in an underground mine located in southwestern Pennsylvania. (PDF, 2404 KB, 1985)

NIOSH researchers evaluated four seat designs on mine haulage vehicles with regard to roadway-induced jarring/jolting and operator comfort. In this paper, the performances of the seat designs are compared relative to the operator's exposure to vehicle vibration (mainly jarring/jolting). (PDF, 1580 KB, 2005-07)

An investigation of an underground pillar at a mine in Lead, SD. Using the results, researchers hypothesize that pillar rocks have the ability to withstand stress an order of magnitude greater than they currently sustain. (PDF, 524 KB, 1999)

NIOSH has been conducting research to develop a new testing protocol for rating mine ventilation stoppings. This paper compares the transverse load capabilities of several block materials and wall dimensions commonly used in stopping constructions based upon simulated three-hinge, rigid-arch loading tests of half-wall constructions in the NIOSH Mine Roof Simulator. (PDF, 428 KB, 2008)

The Bureau of Mines conducted studies to compare the effectiveness of the cross-measure borehole system with that of surface gob holes on two successively mined retreating longwalls in the Lower Kittanning coalbed. Only the cross-measure system was in operation on panel A; on panel B, both systems were in operation. In addition, the cross-measure boreholes on panel B were drilled parallel to the face, whereas those on panel A were drilled at a 45 degrees angle with respect to the longwall axis. (PDF, 1157 KB, 1986)

This compendium details the current research program of the Office for Mine Safety and Health Research. (PDF, 7223 KB, 2000-02)
                                                

This compendium details the current research program of the Office for Mine Safety and Health Research. (PDF, 3105 KB, 2001-01)
                                                

This compendium details the current research program of the Office for Mine Safety and Health Research. (PDF, 13690 KB, 2001-12)
                                                

Mining is now utilizing surprisingly complex programmable electronic (PE) systems. The functional safety of PE-based mining systems is an international issue and concern. NIOSH is conducting research to develop a quantitative complexity assessment methodology based on Normal Accident Theory (NAT). This methodology will help realize simpler, safer systems that will be easier to validate and verify. (PDF, 278 KB, 2002-08)

Samples of gas were obtained directly from the coalbed during drilling of horizontal and vertical boreholes in six different formations. The samples were analyzed by gas chromatography. (PDF, 352 KB, 1973)

Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations were conducted to investigate the spontaneous heating of coals in longwall gob areas with different apparent activation energies and reaction surface areas. The results are reported in this paper. (PDF, 599 KB, 2007)

This paper focuses on the flow patterns within the gob under three different ventilation systems: one-entry and two-entry bleederless systems, as well as a three-entry bleeder system. (PDF, 599 KB, 2006)

The US Bureau of Mines has developed an alternate method for facilitating lighting system mock-ups. (PDF, 862 KB, 1996)
                                                    

A computer analysis of bench stability was developed to account for multiple occurrences of potential slope-failure modes in discontinuous rock masses. Bench-scale plane shears and tetrahedral wedges are simulated and stochastically analyzed to estimate the probability of retaining specified catch-bench widths. (PDF, 625 KB, 2000)

A collaborative project was conducted to investigate ground behavior, reinforcement performance, and stress redistribution in a coal mine entry subjected to a severe horizontal stress concentration. This paper focuses on the computer simulation that was undertaken to provide more insight into the roof behavior and rock bolt interaction during mining. (PDF, 1100 KB, 2004)

NIOSH researchers successfully developed a computer model that generates contact data by means of simulation while exercising the model with several variables associated with the machine and its operator. The resulting simulation database contains 5,250 observations. The use of such information can be helpful in making recommendations to machine design and task procedures to reduce the likelihood that roof bolter operators will experience injury due to contact with a moving roof bolting machine's boom arm. (PDF, 6952 KB, 2005-10)

Describes a computer program developed by NIOSH for estimating the air quantity needed to dilute diesel particulate matter in underground large opening mines. (PDF, 202 KB, 2004)

NIOSH is developing computer programs that will be used to educate mine workers on the hazards of mining, as well as train miners in evacuation routes and evacuation procedures. (PDF, 191 KB, 1999-12)

This paper discusses the application of a training intervention that uses degraded images for improving the hazard recognition skills of miners. (PDF, 427 KB, 2003)

The mining industry has the highest average annual fatality rate among major U.S. industries. To address this, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL), is conducting major research programs to reduce the hazard exposure of miners. One of the recently concluded programs at PRL developed the enabling technology for remote-controlled mining. (PDF, 420 KB, 1998-10)

This paper addresses the assessment of turn-to-turn insulation deterioration that can be resolved using an on-line monitoring technique to predict incipient failure prediction in electric power system components. (PDF, 712 KB, 1999)

Discusses design criteria for making a proper acoustical enclosure where a machine operator can safely and effectively work. (PDF, 1893 KB, 2002-01)
                           

Roof Monitoring Safety Systems (RMSSs) were installed in 13 underground limestone mines in six states. This paper analyzes the data obtained at three of the mines and also provides an overview of the system, data, analysis and applications relevant to the RMSS. (PDF, 1000 KB, 2003-08)

On-the-job training (OJT) is a very common method of teaching job skills. Health, safety, and operational skills can be connected through training. Haul truck operator training is used to illustrate some of the concepts discussed in this paper. (PDF, 492 KB, 2002-09)

The purpose of this article is to help identify some criteria of features currently available in audiometric equipment and audiometric database management software. (PDF, 83 KB, 2007-09)

This paper describes the results of different chain types and configurations installed on a continuous mining machine conveyor system and the resulting sound power levels. (PDF, 374 KB, 2008)

In response to an MSHA task group recommendation, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pittsburgh Research Center, initiated the development of a fixed-site machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor. (PDF, 418 KB, 1996)

NIOSH initiated the development of a fixed-site machine-mounted continous respirable dust monitor. The technology chosen for monitor development is the Rupprecht and Patashnick Co., Inc. tapered element oscillating microbalance. Laboratory and in-mine tests have indicated that, with modification, this sensor can meet the humidity and vibration requirements for underground coal mine use. (PDF, 1560 KB, 1997)

Laser-based instruments are used in areas where coal dust ignition presents a safety hazard. NIOSH is conducting a study to help determine when an optical beam may be considered a potential ignition source in underground coal mines or coal storage facilities. (PDF, 94 KB, 2003-08)

Deeper surface mining and deeper highwall penetration depths have lead to more frequent encounters with methane gas. While this coal is remotely mined from the surface, underground ignitions of methane have propagated to the surface and injured miners. Methods described in this paper show how this hazard can be correctly monitored and controlled for auger type highwall mining machines. (PDF, 953 KB, 1997)

Medium frequency (MF) techniques have been successfully applied to the problem of radio voice communications in both coal and metal and nonmetal mines. MF techniques can also be applied to the areas of in-mine control and monitoring. Preliminary work in this area is described. (PDF, 678 KB, 1985-07)

The cross-measure borehole technique is being studied as an alternative to the use of surface gob boreholes as a means of controlling methane in gobs during longwall mining. Small-diameter holes are drilled from underground locations into strata overlying the mined coalbed. When the roof strata are fractured by the mining operation, a partial vacuum applied to the boreholes draws the methane out of the fractured strata and prevents it from entering the mine ventilation system. Tests in the Upper Kittanning coalbed showed that 50 pct of the methane produced by the longwall mining operation was captured by the cross-measure boreholes. Borehole inclination and penetration into the gob are two important borehole parameters that affect the performance of the cross-measure borehole system. (PDF, 2398 KB, 1983)

A study of dust control technology and practices to reduce the occurence of lung diseases in miners. (PDF, 1689 KB, 2001)
                                                   

This report summarizes work sponsored by the Bureau of Mines in the development of a remote operating system (ROS) for controlling a thin-seam continuous miner (TSCM) 500 feet or more distant from the extraction face. Details are provided on ros subsystems including the continuous miner, video equipment, controls and displays, the electronic control system, and the operator station. (PDF, 442 KB, 1986)

This paper presents an overview of dust controls typically utilized in underground US coal mines and an update on ongoing NIOSH PRL research efforts that are evaluating new control technologies. (PDF, 1285 KB, 2008)

A design technique is presented which provides stone miners with a method for making stability assessments. The consequences of widening rooms, changing geology and horizontal stresses, and different rock bolts on roof beam failure are discussed. (PDF, 836 KB, 1998-08)

The Bureau of Mines conducted Cu exchange tests for six common clays under simulated in situ leaching conditions. Regression equations were obtained from the data expressing the Cu exchange capacity as a function of Cu concentration, pH, and temperature. (PDF, 1404 KB, 1992)

To study bump mechanisms, conditions in the vicinity of a deep longwall mining face in bump-prone strata were monitored using three discrete systems. Results from the three systems are correlated in an effort to increase understanding of mining-induced stress redistribution and bump potential. (PDF, 1090 KB, 2001)

This paper describes research conducted by NIOSH aimed at developing a correlation between sonic travel time logging of exploration boreholes and estimates of coal mine roof rock strength. (PDF, 591 KB, 2008)

This field trial of the Work Crew Performance Model affirms the congruency between production and operator training by providing a unique cost linkage between performance engineering and human behavior. (PDF, 640 KB, 1996)

A NIOSH study of the time-dependent response of rock stressed along weakness planes with the objective to improve mine safety by reducing the number of roof falls that cause injuries and fatalities to miners. (PDF, 119 KB, 2000)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines has developed an easy to use personal computer-based software package to aid in the analysis of the visibility and illumination aspects of mining equipment design. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

This document contains most of the materials needed to conduct a training exercise for remote control miner operators and face crews. (PDF, 3025 KB, 1999-10)

Discusses a study that used a CFD program (fire dynamics simulator) based on large eddy simulations (LES) to model floor-level fires in a ventilated tunnel. The CFD results are compared with two simple theories of critical ventilation. (PDF, 528 KB, 2005-04)

Includes general information on the hearing loss problem in mining, a review of hearing protection used and noise regulations in mining, and other background materials. (PDF, 1236 KB, 2000-08)

Since 1982, standard calibration materials recommended for respirable crystalline silica analysis by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) P7 Infrared Method and the NIOSH X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Analytical Method 7500 have undergone minor changes in size distribution. However, a critical assumption has been made that the crystalline silica in ambient mine atmosphere respirable dust samples has also remained essentially unchanged in particle size distribution. The objective of this work is to compare recent particle size distributions of underground coal mine dust and the silica component of these dusts with estimated aerodynamic particle size distributions of calibration standard materials MIN-U-SIL 5, Berkeley 5, and SRM 1878 used by two crystalline silica analysis techniques. (PDF, 68 KB, 2006-01)

Results from underground dust surveys to identify current operating practices and the types of controls being used at longwall operations are presented as an update on longwall dust control technology and operating practices. (PDF, 337 KB, 2007)

This report focuses on two areas of research to lower miners' exposure to respirable dust at surface operations. These areas deal with enclosed cabs methods to lower dust levels at surface drills. (PDF, 2569 KB, 2001)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is investigating various remote sensing technologies as possible tools to detect, monitor, and mitigate hazardous situations in surface mines that could lead to catastrophic slope failure. Promising technologies include a field-portable spectro-polarimetric imager and a stationary interferometric radar device. (PDF, 2162 KB, 2000)

A description of the current state of hearing protector fit testing and the software used for mobile field tests. (PDF, 2047 KB, 2002)
                                      

As part of a research program to reduce injuries and fatalities in the U.S. mining workforce, NIOSH is investigating the potential use of noncontact vibration measurements to identify hazardous ground fall conditions. (PDF, 447 KB, 2004)

This paper reviews the potential hazards posed by the toxic fumes produced by detonating explosives in surface mining and construction operations. Techniques to protect workers and the public from the potential hazards of explosive-related toxic fumes are discussed. (PDF, 83 KB, 2007)

A survey of electromagnetic noise reports was performed and a summary of the results are given. (PDF, 3170 KB, 1981-02)
                                                        

Forty-eight workers who had escaped large underground coal-mine fires were interviewed using an open-ended protocol. This information, and the actual experiences of one eight-person mine-section crew who escaped from a fire, were used to construct an 18-frame (page) table-top simulation exercise, which was then field tested with 134 miners. (PDF, 911 KB, 1998)

A study is described with the objective of evaluating the various methods and strategies by which panels, production pillars and barrier pillars are developed and extracted under deep cover, and to develop appropriate design guidelines. (PDF, 655 KB, 2002)

The objective of the Diesel Emissions Evaluation Program (DEEP)-sponsored project at Inco Ltd.'s Stobie Mine was to conduct a long-term field evaluation of diesel particulate filter (DPF) systems available to the underground mining industry. Some of the major issues studied were criteria for selecting the filter media, means of DPF regeneration, efficiency of DPF systems and the occurrence of unwanted secondary emissions, and reliability and durability of DPF systems. (PDF, 576 KB, 2006)

The Bureau of Mines conducted research to determine the effectiveness of long holes drilled in solid virgin coal in degasifying an area of the Pittsburgh coalbed showing that horizontal holes drilled into a virgin coalbed from the bottom of any shaft will effectively remove methane gas in commercial quantities from the Pittsburgh coalbed. The gas drained to date is six times the gas estimated to be in the area subtended by the holes. Methane emissions at the working face of 1 west mains, Federal No. 2 Mine has been reduced by 50 pct, proving the value of methane drainage by horizontal degasification holes drilled from shaft bottoms ahead of mining. (PDF, 1298 KB, 1976)

A 5-hole pattern was drilled from the surface at a site near Oak Grove, Jefferson County, Alabama, to degasify the gassy Mary Lee coalbed in advance of mining. Gas and water production was monitored for 1 year, 4 months to allow gas flow to stabilize fully. A thickened water stimulation treatment was designed and applied in one hole of the pattern to evaluate this degasification technique for the Mary Lee coalbed. Results indicated that the use of vertical boreholes coupled with hydraulic fracturing in advance of mining the Mary Lee coalbed would provide for more rapid degasification and could provide a possible source of natural gas. (PDF, 767 KB, 1974)

The Bureau of Mines has developed several techniques for draining methane from coalbeds in advance of mining. Drilling long horizontal holes from an underground location is one such technique, which was successfully demonstrated in the Pittsburgh and Sunnyside coalbeds. The same technique has now been applied in the Mary Lee coalbed at Jim Walter Resources, Inc. (PDF, 820 KB, 1982)

The Bureau of Mines is in the process of degasifying a virgin area in northern West Virginia from the base of an 839-foot-deep vertical borehole. After 180 days of degasification, 91 million cubic feet of gas had been removed from the affected virgin area. This represents 60 to 70 percent of the gas calculated to be contained in the area of coal affected by the holes. (PDF, 2033 KB, 1973)

The Bureau of Mines conducted research to degasify a virgin block of coal in the Beckley coalbed using long horizontal holes drilled in an array from the bottom of a ventilation air shaft. Eight horizontal holes and an in situ pressure hole were drilled in a radial pattern. The investigation showed the shaft was in a basin saturated with water, which resulted in low gas flows from holes. Methane face emissions, which were measured as a section advanced toward the shaft, were reduced about 77 pct. All holes were grouted before the area around the shaft was mined. (PDF, 1139 KB, 1982)

As part of an investigation aimed at improving the health and safety and competitiveness of the mining industry, the U.S. Bureau of Mines evaluated the application of common offset radar profiling, using a 250-MHz ground-penetrating radar (GPR) system, for the detection of fractures in igneous rock (PDF, 16185 KB, 1992)

Covers development of novel technology for remote mine seal construction, evaluation of the materials used, construction practice, and follow-up testing. (PDF, 1800 KB, 2004)

Mine seals can be remotely constructed in underground coal mines through vertical boreholes when direct access to a fire is impossible or considered to be too dangerous. Full-scale remote mine seal construction research is being conducted at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's (NIOSH) Lake Lynn Laboratory (LLL). Under this effort, Howard Concrete Pumping Company and GAI Consultants Inc. have joined forces to evaluate a potentially significant improvement to the current state of the art. This paper covers the development of novel technology for remote mine seal construction, the evaluation of the materials used, the construction practice and the follow-up testing. (PDF, 1963 KB, 2006-01)

An oil well penetrating the Pittsburgh bituminous coalbed in northern West Virginia was plugged and safely mined through 3 months later. Effectiveness of the plugging in preventing reservoir gas from entering the mine through the well hole was verified by continuous monitoring of the mine air for indications of sulfur hexafluoride. Three other wells were also plugged using various techniques. (PDF, 1473 KB, 1972)

The Deserado mine monitoring and control system is a complex system designed to monitor environmental parameters and electrical power, and to operate all types of equipment used in mines, including the entire haulage system. This paper discusses the evaluation of the Deserado monitoring system from the initial design through system installation and operation. It also examines the costs, benefits, and performace of the system. (PDF, 400 KB, 1986)

The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has identified ore pass hazards as s significant safety problem in underground metal mines in the United States. Researchers at the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health are investigating these hazards and developing methods to improve safety during transport of ore and waste. (PDF, 677 KB, 1998)

This report describes an operational communications system which provides remote intra-terrestrial wireless transmission of environmental information. (PDF, 866 KB, 1976-09)

Documents the refurbishing and instrumentation of the PRL reverberation chamber to bring it up to compliance with the ISO 3743-2 standard for engineering grade measurements for broadband noise. (PDF, 563 KB, 2003-06)

The Spokane Research Laboratory (SRL) of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Thiessen Team USA, Spokane, WA, have developed a pull claw that can be attached to any accessible friction bolt ring to test the performance (i.e., load-carrying capacity) of bolts without the use of a pull collar. This would allow true random testing of friction bolts, which need to be evaluated to determine if they are still providing an adequate level of support months or years after installation. Such support is critical to maintaining safe working conditions for underground miners. (PDF, 553 KB, 2004-03)

The purpose of this paper is to set goals for the future generations of longwall shields. (PDF, 877 KB, 2001)
                                                              

This study addresses several engineering and economic facets of possible roll-over protective structure (ROPS) and falling object protection structure (FOPS) requirements in the metal-nonmetal mining industry. (PDF, 13355 KB, 1976-02)

One focus of ground control research at NIOSH is to incorporate data on weak rock masses into existing design relationships, with an emphasis on updating the span design curve for manned entries and the overbreak curve for longhole entries. Both curves were originally developed at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC. The original database has been augmented by information from mines throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. The common factor in all of these mines is the presence of a weak back and/or walls. In most cases, the ore zone is the weakest rock unit and must be stabilized so that the mineral-bearing rock can be extracted safety. The current NIOSH research attempts to provide rock mechanics tools to assist a mine operator in making economic decisions that will also ensure a safe working environment. This paper documents the Nevada database with a special emphasis on Nevada underground gold mines. (PDF, 396 KB, 2005)

This paper discusses a design methodology for standing secondary tailgate supports. The methodology uses the performance characteristics generated in the NIOSH Mine Roof Simulator (MRS) to match the stiffness and load characteristics of various supports to the measured ground reaction behavior. (PDF, 666 KB, 1999)

Methods are described to limit "cascading pillar failure", which occurs when one pillar in a mine layout fails, transferring its load to neighboring pillars, which causes them to fail, and so forth. Design approaches are illustrated with practical examples for coal mining at shallow depth. (PDF, 624 KB, 1997)

A study is described where information was collected at 37 coal mine on roof falls, and other geotechnical, mining, geologic and roof bolting factors. A statistical analysis was conducted on the data with the roof fall rate being the outcome variable. (PDF, 588 KB, 2001-06)

A Bureau of Mines manual for the design of surface mine haulage roads. Covers such aspects as road alignment, construction materials, cross slope, drainage provisions and more. (PDF, 703 KB, 1977)

A calibrated three-dimensional finite element model, developed in conjunction with an underground test area, provided the critical components and design principals for a comprehensive parametric study. (PDF, 329 KB, 2004-02)

The underhand method under consolidated fill ensures a high recovery under an engineered back that is comprised of cemented rock fill and/or cemented paste fill. This method of mining is generally necessary either due to a weak rock mass comprising the immediate back and/or high induced back stresses. A major concern in the design of sill mats is the loading and strengths associated with the overlying sill mat. This paper reviews past practice coupled with present observations and measurements from over ten mines throughout North America related to mining under consolidated fills. (PDF, 386 KB, 2005)

NIOSH, in collaboration with the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the mining industry, and seal manufacturers, conducted a series of full- scale experiments to evaluate the explosion-resistant characteristics of several new seal designs for rapid deployment during mine emergencies. These seals can be deployed in less than 12 hours and can withstand explosion overpressures in excess of 140 kPa (20 psi). These novel seal designs use available mine materials, do no require conventional rib hitching and, more importantly, can substantially reduce exposure time for coal miners during sealing and mine recovery operations. (PDF, 955 KB, 2004)

Reports on NIOSH full-scale experiments to evaluate the explosion-resistant characteristics of several new seal designs for rapid deployment during mine emergencies. (PDF, 2280 KB, 2003)

Slope stability accidents are one of the leading causes of fatalities at U.S. surface mining operations. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is conducting research to reduce the fatalities associated with slope failures. This paper discusses some of this research and presents potential new technologies for slope monitoring and design. (PDF, 329 KB, 2002-08)

This paper describes a case study where a surface-based microseismic system, using triaxial geophones in boreholes drilled from the surface, was deployed at a large limestone mine. (PDF, 945 KB, 2008)

This U.S. Bureau of Mines study examined spontaneous heating episodes in coal mine pillars in an active underground coal mine. The objective of this study was to discover if the location of future events of pillar spontaneous heating could be inferred from the available information. (PDF, 332 KB, 1995)

Presented in this paper is a theoretical review of the relationships that should exist between electrical winding parameters and the mechanical vibration of a-c machine elements under normal and faulted operating conditions. (PDF, 496 KB, 1999-10)

The article discusses the applicability of computerized signal analysis techniques to identify fault currents existing on coal mine direct-current trolley systems (PDF, 2300 KB, 1997-05)

This report assesses the expected detectability, on the surface above mines, of electromagnetic signals produced in the 630- to 3,030-hz frequency band by a rescue transmitter activated by miners trapped underground. The implications of the results and associated recommendations are presented regarding the detectability of trapped miners, sensitivity analyses and confirmatory tests, and operational utilization considerations for the trapped miners and the search and rescue teams on the surface. (PDF, 8965 KB, 1980)

As part of safety and stability studies at three underground mines in the United States, researchers installed earth pressure cells and embedment strain gauges in cemented rockfill to measure stress and strain changes as mining progressed and the rockfill was loaded. Data from these instruments were used to calculate the in situ modulus of the rockfill for two of the mines. A three-dimensional numerical model of a cemented rockfill cap was validated with data from extensometers anchored in the mine roof and sill; this model was then used to estimate deformation modulus at the third mine because the earth pressure cells and embedment strain gauges recorded negligible changes. (PDF, 757 KB, 2003-09)

Researchers are investigating the physical properties of cable bolts by replacing the conventional king wire with a modified king wire on which strain gauges have been installed. (PDF, 621 KB, 2000-04)

Examination of several coalbeds in Walker County, Alabama, Cambria, Greene, and Fayette Counties, Pennsylvania, and Caleigh and Wyoming Counties, West Virginia, indicates that cleat orientations are similar throughout a vertical sequence of strata. Studies of cleat orientation were carried out in underground mines that are operating in separate coalbeds vertically above one another. The largest variation of cleat directions between adjacent coalbeds occurs where a large horizontal distance separates two sample locations. Cleat orientations for deeper coalbeds are most reliable where the data are taken from directly above. (PDF, 867 KB, 1976)

Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Reports of Investigation, MSHA Mine Accident Reports, and the MSHA Mining Industry Accident, Injuries, Employment, and Production Database were analyzed, and interviews and observations with mine workers and welders were conducted to determine the root causes of coal mine fires and explosions caused by flame cutting and welding operations. This paper discusses the root causes and potential means to reduce the number of fires and resulting fatalities and injuries caused by or due to flame cutting and welding. (PDF, 246 KB, 2006-06)

Four coreholes were drilled (two before and two after mining) at a longwall mine in the Lower Kitanning coalbed to obtain coal and rock samples from overlying strata to determine their gas content at various times in the mining cycle. Test results indicate that 91 pct of the gas removed from the overlying strata came from coalbeds. Further analysis indicated that only 40 pct of the total gas produced from the panel actually came from the strata directly overlying the panel. The remaining volume of gas production probably migrated to the longwall gob from overlying, and perhaps underlying, strata immediately adjacent to the panel and perhaps from greater distances downdip because of the establishment of a long-term pressure gradient. (PDF, 1166 KB, 1992)

This article examines the spatial variability of dust concentrations within a coal miner´s breathing zone and the impact of sampling location at the cap lamp, nose, and lapel. (PDF, 172 KB, 2007-08)

This paper provides a method for predicting sound pressure levels at the operator´s position of a roof bolting machine in an underground coal mine using sound power levels determined in the laboratory. (PDF, 115 KB, 2007)

This paper reports on a series of explosive detonation experiments conducted in NIOSH's Bruceton and Lake Lynn Experimental Mines to evaluate low-level (<6 psig) detonation wave propagation behavior in single- and multiple-entry configurations. (PDF, 116 KB, 2005)

Modern underground coal mines can be very large, having a total connected load in excess of 15,000 hp. These, mines generally have many miles of high-power conveyor belts and 15 or more miles of high-voltage power cables at distribution voltages of 12.47, 13.2, 13.8, or 14.4 kV.This paper addresses the potential detrimental effects of capacitance charging currents during line-to-ground faults in mine power distribution systems. A representative mine power system is modeled, and simulations with faults at various locations are conducted to evaluate the effects of this capacitance on the level of fault current and relay selectivity. This paper also includes results of capacitance measurements made on mine power feeder cables used to validate the simulation model.  (PDF, 3313 KB, 2006-09)

This paper reviews the basics of developing safety interventions aimed at improving worker performance and describes approaches for maintaining program effectiveness. Emphasis is given to identifying performance discrepancies (hazardous behaviors) by observations (safety sampling), accident data analysis, and input from workers and supervisors. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

This report documents the code development of special features for a computer model, random virtual human motions and behaviors, which made it possible for researchers to study hazardous interactions, such as contacts between the operator and machine. (PDF, 1323 KB, 2004-03)

Toolbox training is often described as short, informal training conducted at a worksite by technically competent persons for the benefit of a work team. The key feature of toolbox training is the focus on a work team and what is important to that group in its workplace. (PDF, 492 KB, 2002-09)

This study presents an approach using coalbed methane reservoir modeling and an artificial neural network (ANN) design for prediction and optimization of methane inflows and ventilation air requirements to maintain methane concentrations below statutory limits. (PDF, 1131 KB, 2007-11)

This paper describes the development of reservoir models for the longwall mining environment and their application for investigating the influence of various completion design parameters on the methane drainage effectiveness of gob gas ventholes. (PDF, 264 KB, 2006)

Recent studies have shown that miners performing construction, maintenance, and repair (CMR) work activities in the conduct of their jobs incur from 39 to 65 percent of all reported injuries in the mining industry. To address this issue, an interactive, 3-D slides training exercise, Hazard Recognition Training Program for Construction, Maintenance and Repair Activities, was developed. (PDF, 483 KB, 2000-08)

This paper details the Laboratory noise testing results of a continuous mining machine conveyor system which uses a coating for the tail roller component designed to help bring the continuous mining machine into compliance with federal noise regulations. (PDF, 549 KB, 2007)

A prototype muching machine designed to operate in narrow-vein stopes was developed by Foster-Miller, Inc., Waltham, MA, under contract with the U.S. Bureau of Mines. To correct deficiencies of the tether-remote-control system, a computer-based, radio-remote-control system was retrofitted to the minimucker. (PDF, 1813 KB, 1992)

This report presents system objectives and design criteria for an in-mine ultralow frequency radio paging system. (PDF, 2958 KB, 1978)
                                      

This report describes a 4-in diameter borehole probe which contains a low light level television camera, magnetic compass, light illumination source, bottom-water detector sensor, and a point angle sensor. The camera viewing angle is at a right angle to the probe's body. All data from the sensor are multiplexed into the closed-circuit camera video for transmission on a single 50-ohm coaxial cable to a surface control unit. Likewise, control of the probe's power, zoom lens, focus, panning, and aperture is accomplished via a downlink multiplexed on the same cable. (PDF, 919 KB, 1984)

This paper describes a study in which a field colorimetric method for extracting and measuring manganese in welding fume was developed. (PDF, 111 KB, 2007-11)

NIOSH recently investigated the performance of a lower-pressure, water-powered in-line series spray scrubber for removing localized airborne dust emitted at the source. Results showed noticeable improvements in airborne dust capture efficiency through the operation of multiple in-line series hollow cone spray nozzles within a round duct of pipe at the same water pressure as a single spray. (PDF, 1015 KB, 2006-01)

Current technologies for locating trapped miners from the surface are either simple direction finders or time difference pulse systems that have accuracy limitations. Developing technologies using full-vector field measurements at several receiving points are currently being studied. The necessity of measuring field strength with great accuracy can be a drawback in these systems. However, a system that operates with continuous-wave radio signals, with phase differences that can be measured accurately even in weak signal conditions, would greatly improve the location accuracy. Comparison of this system with existing technology indicates a favorable accuracy-complexity ratio for the phase difference of arrival technique. (PDF, 2149 KB, 1983)

Researchers from private industry and NIOSH have studied mechanisms of violent failure and have identified individual factors that contribute to coal bumps. In an attempt to develop tools for assessing coal bump potential, the authors initiated a comprehensive study using information from 25 case studies undertaken in U.S. mines. (PDF, 331 KB, 1997)

This report describes a project in which Development of a Supervisory and Management Training Program for the Underground Coal mining Industry was developed and evaluated. (PDF, 1609 KB, 1983-05)

The objective of this program was to design and build a self-contained system for remote monitoring of the atmosphere in mines. The system developed uses the mine pager phone line as the primary communication channel and also has the capability of using 208 Hz in the ELF band for wireless transmission through the earth. (PDF, 1091 KB, 1980-12)

The object of this program was to extend the capabilities of visual paging systems both in size and functions in mines. The system developed uses the mine pager phone line for communication, monitoring, and remote control. The system was designed to be intrinsically safe and should operate for 3 months on a 12-volt lantern battery. (PDF, 1376 KB, 1980-10)

An automated PC-network-based seismic data acquisition and processing system has been developed by NIOSH for use in mine safety studies. Several systems have been constructed and deployed in the field for testing and application. These systems are now being applied in studies designed to reduce hazards associated with roof falls, rock bursts, coal bumps, and mine collapse. (PDF, 264 KB, 2001-12)

This article focuses on U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) and NIOSH research to examine factors that had a significant influence on mine face ventilation design during the past century. (PDF, 2404 KB, 2007-08)

This paper presents the results of a study into the ground response around tailgate entries using numerical models. The ground response is shown to be significantly affected by the strength of the immediate roof as well as the main roof. The importance of yield capacity of standing support is demonstrated. Gob height and compaction are found to affect the amount of convergence in the tailgate. The potential exists to develop site-specific tailgate design curves by combining model results with field observations. (PDF, 587 KB, 2006-06)

A new protocol based on rigid arch loading of the structure is proposed to determine the true transverse load capacity of block stoppings. The rigid arch tests have shown that the load capability is dependent on the physical properties of the block and geometric properties of the wall, not the sealant. (PDF, 338 KB, 2006-06)

A description of the development process and results of safety training projects. (PDF, 188 KB, 2001-02)
                                                                      

This paper describes the application of a finite difference program to develop a geomechanical model that predicts permeability changes within the rock mass. (PDF, 393 KB, 2005)

A system was developed to monitor rock and coal stresses during mining of an entire longwall panel. The system was designed to generate data in near real time to evaluate rock behavior in roof strata and the onset of hazardous conditions as overburden stress was redistributed over working entries during gob formation. Computer simulations and in-mine evaluations were used to optimize instrument placement. A prototype packer assembly was designed and tested for installing sensitive instruments in a mine roof. This paper provides background information on the stress monitoring concept and focuses on the development of instrument placement techniques and the prototype packer assembly. (PDF, 654 KB, 2001-07)

During the past few years, NIOSH has been evaluating developments in sealant support systems from a ground control perspective. This paper briefly reviews the current state-of-the-art technology in shotcrete and membrane developments, evaluates the preliminary findings of a long-term underground study of various types of sealant materials, and examines installation practices that are critical for an effective sealant material. (PDF, 462 KB, 2002-08)

In a recent study, NIOSH has used a wet/dry cycling test to determine the moisture sensitivity of over 800 specimens of roof rock from 25 U.S. coal mines. Three case studies are presented in which the moisture-sensitivity index is correlated to roof conditions underground, and can be used to indicate long term deterioration. (PDF, 520 KB, 2008-01)

Although structure type and building material were not viewed as significant factors affecting the health of employees in mineral processing facilities when they were built, NIOSH has found that building type can impact respirable dust and noise levels. NIOSH performed a study in which it evaluated three building types: masonry, an open-structure design, and a steel-sided design. (PDF, 1541 KB, 2007-07)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines and others have conducted a number of occupational exposure surveys since the publication of the International Agency for Research on Cancer report of 1989, which labeled diesel exhaust as a probable human carcinogen. This report reviews available diesel exhaust aerosol and gas measurement techniques. (PDF, 523 KB, 1996-11)

A diesel particulate matter analyzer capable of direct, real-time measurement of engine exhaust particulate is necessary to effectively institute source control technology currently being used on diesel equipment and to ensure that the control measures are working. To investigate the potential of a differential pressure monitor to measure diesel particulate matter in undiluted exhaust, samples were collected from three different diesel enginessKubota, Isuzu, and Deutzsrunning under 12 different RPM and load scenarios. (PDF, 330 KB, 2005-04)

This article summarized results of research conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) at its Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. The objective of this work was to determine the correlation between the mass (M) of respirable coal and limestone dusts collected on 25-mm-diameter glass fiber filters mounted in cassettes and the increase in differential pressure that develops across the filters when drawing at constant air flow. (ASP, KB, 2002-02)

Various methods of monitoring slip movements on bedding planes, as well as examination of rock burst damage in stopes, suggests that rock bursts in the Lucky Friday Miner are closely associated with these movements. (PDF, 929 KB, 1999-06)

Describes a simple, inexpensive test to measure the methane content of coal samples obtained from exploration cores. The results of tests are summarized in tabular form. These results include data on the gas content of 125 coalbeds in 15 states. (PDF, 1830 KB, 1981)

The applicability of the "direct method" for determining the methane content of virgin coalbeds was tested. Preliminary results indicate that the direct method, when applied to exploration cores, can be successfully used to estimate coalbed gas content and also approximately predict the total gas emission from a prospective mine located in the coalbed at the exploration site. (PDF, 612 KB, 1973)

The Bureau of Mines is cooperating with the U.S. Department of Energy in a directional degasification project at the Emerald Mine near Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. This project is designed to combine the highly successful underground horizontal degasification technology with surface drilling methods. The objective of this program is to demonstrate that directional drilling can be used as a technique for degasifying coalbeds ahead of mining to reduce the hazards of methane-air explosions in coal mines.  (PDF, 734 KB, 1979)

A 3-inch pilot hole was directionally drilled to intercept the freeport coalbed horizon horizontally at Mather, Pennsylvania, as part of a Bureau of Mines degasification project. The original concept was to continue the horizontal drilling into the coalbed, after the initial intercept, with a total of three horizontal holes eventually being completed.  (PDF, 1013 KB, 1977)

A large Pittsburgh seam longwall mine had begun to develop in a different direction from its original portal area to access additional reserves. A large area of the mine would be abandoned and sealed, but continued use of the original mine portal area required that the water accumulating in the abandoned mine would eventually need to be pumped to the surface. Several pumping and sump options were investigated to handle the quantity and quality of the anticipated discharge water. (PDF, 764 KB, 2001)

Describes inconsistencies in disease and illness reporting in U.S. mining, identifies under-reporting of disease and illness in U.S. mining, and summarizes selected disease and illness in U.S. mining from 1983 through 2001. (PDF, 740 KB, 2004)

NIOSH investigated how the starting of induction motors may cause nuisance tripping of short-circuit protection on coal mine power systems.  (PDF, 156 KB, 2002)

Mine trailing cables operated above safe thermal limits can cause premature insulation failure, increasing electrocution and fire hazards. This paper describes a unique approach to measuring temperatures within reeled cable under dynamic test conditions. (PDF, 63 KB, 1998-03)

The Bureau of Mines conducted an experimental degasification project in Island Creek Coal Company Virginia Pocahontas No. 5 Mine. Methane from the overlying Pocahontas No. 4 Coalbed was entering mine workings in the Pocahontas No. 3 Coalbed through fractures in the roof rock. Small-diameter (1-5/8-inch) holes were drilled into the overlying coalbed to reduce the gas pressure and intercept methane flows, which were piped to the surface through an underground 6-inch- diam steel pipeline. Methane flows into the mine were reduced by 47 pct. (PDF, 968 KB, 1979)

The process of drilling and bolting the roof is currently one of the most dangerous jobs in underground mining, resulting in about 1,000 accidents with injuries each year in the United States. Researchers from the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health are studying the use of a drill monitoring system to estimate the strength of successive layers of rock and assess the integrity of a mine roof so that roof drill operators can be warned when a weak layer is being drilled. (PDF, 2025 KB, 2002-07)

This Instructor's Copy contains most of the materials trainers will need in order to use the Drill Rig Incident exercise. (PDF, 2129 KB, 2005-02)
                              

Three long horizontal holes were drilled from a directionally drilled surface hole at the Emerald Mine near Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. The purpose was to adapt the technique of directional drilling for use in draining methane from coalbeds. (PDF, 6348 KB, 1982)

This paper describes a noise control for reducing the noise overexposures of continuous mining machine operators. (PDF, 371 KB, 2007)
                                      

Dust surveys were conducted to determine factors affecting belt entry dust levels and how using belt air to ventilate work areas affected dust exposures. (PDF, 4300 KB, 1992)

This report presents information on dust control engineering techniques for metal and nonmetal mineral processing. Dust prevention, formation, and control are examined, and wet and dry control systems, personal protection, testing methods, and costing methodologies are discussed. Prospective users of this handbook include maintenance foremen, plant engineers, mill supervisors, and safety directors. (HTML, KB, 1987-02)

This paper presents an update on longwall dust control technology and practices in the U.S. It summarizes the results of NIOSH dust surveys conducted at longwalls throughout the country to document the types of controls that are being used and to quantify the relative effectiveness of these controls. It also presents longwall dust parameters provided by mine operators to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to assess the status of dust control technology being used throughout the industry. (PDF, 2158 KB, 2006)

This paper summarizes existing dust control technologies routinely being used in underground coal mine operations, and provides a review of new controls that are being pursued. (PDF, 368 KB, 2007)

The dust-reduction capabilities of five commercially available bag valves were evaluated by the Bureau of Mines for use in mineral processing plants. The five valves were made of (1) standard paper, (2) polyethylene, (3) extended polyethylene, (4) double trap (paper), and (5) foam. The valves were evaluated at a mineral processing plant during the bag loading, conveying, and pallet loading process. For the overall process, the extended polyethylene valve was the most effective at reducing product blowback, and resulted in lower dust concentrations for bag-generated dust. (HTML, KB, 1986)

Many types of heavy equipment used in the mining and construction industries use enclosed cabs to protect equipment operators from dust and noise exposure. A cooperative research study with a mining company and a cab filtration company was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of retrofitting an older surface drill with two controls to lower the drill operator's respirable dust exposure. (PDF, 4166 KB, 2001-04)

The centerpiece of this project is development of a Dynamic Failure Control Program to monitor evolution of dynamic failure hazards with changing geologic conditions to assure that control and protective measures are appropriately deployed. (PDF, 301 KB, 2008)

A method is described to measure the conductor temperature of mine trailing cables during normal operation. The temperature is measured using an optical fiber located in the center of the metallic conductors. (PDF, 220 KB, 1999)

This article describes the development of adaptive learning networks (polynomial networks) to detect and quantify winding insulation leakage on electrical motor windings. This is part of a project to detect impending component failure in mine electrical power systems. (PDF, 1500 KB, 1993)

This paper presents a systems approach that incorporates engineering, economics, psychology, and sociology in order to evaluate the total value of investments in safety. By studying the interrelated system comprised of the injured worker, their family and coworkers, as well as the organizational structure that was the setting for the incident, a methodology can be developed that will more accurately capture the true costs of mine injuries. (PDF, 73 KB, 2004-02)

It has been theorized that accidents associated with dumping operations might be reduced by short-dumping rather than edge-dumping, but many operators have been reluctant to use short-dumping because they believe it is less cost effective. To evaluate this perception, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reviewed the costs of various dumping methods at waste and spoil piles. (PDF, 1833 KB, 2000-07)

The use of a partially slotted 6.5-Inch-inside-diameter vertical pipe to remove methane from a longwall gob area at a depth of 2,260 feet in the Pocahontas No. 3 Coalbed was investigated. The value of gas removed by such a pipe under free-flow conditions was found to equal the cost of the installation in this case. Approximately 25 percent of the available methane passed through the pipe without the use of an exhauster; an additional 10 percent was removed when an exhauster was employed. The diversion of methane through a vertical slotted pipe to the surface permitted the use of increased mining rates and decreased the ventilation air requirements. (PDF, 2499 KB, 1972)

This study examines the use of a commercially-available lubricant for hearing aids to determine whether it would facilitate improved fit and attenuation for earplugs. (PDF, 117 KB, 2008)

This paper describes ignition tests on pulverised coal suspensions using a suite of coals of different rank and from different countries of origin and over a range of oxygen and coal concentrations of interest for oxyfuel combustion. (PDF, 112 KB, 2007)

The purpose of this investigation was to analyze factors influencing struck-by accidents during tramming of a continuous mining machine using digital human model simulations driven by actual human motion analysis with a variety of subjects, postures, facing orientations, environmental constraints, and machine characteristics. (PDF, 1045 KB, 2007)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines conducted a study to determine if commercially available automatic sprinklers could withstand the high static pressures in deep underground coal mines without leaking and if exposure to the mine environment affected their leak pressures. (PDF, 2218 KB, 1993)

Tests were conducted in a full-scale ventilation gallery with a model mining machine that simulated airflow created by a dust scrubber. The results showed that operation of machine-mounted scrubbers improved face ventilation when blowing ventilation is used by increasing both the intake flow and the quantity of air reaching the face. (PDF, 441 KB, 2006-06)

Standing crib supports have been applied in underground mining programs to resist large roof movements and sustain high-loads. The parameter that has not been examined and is not well understood is the effect that a crib or other types of standing support has on the primary and secondary bolting systems. Utilizing a combination of field measurements and 3-dimensional finite element modeling techniques, the relationship between system stiffness and the subsequent performance of the installed bolting system is evaluated. (PDF, 248 KB, 2003-08)

Underground limestone mines typically use the room-and-pillar method of mining in the generally flat-lying limestone formations. In some cases the dip may exceed 5° which can result in unique roof instability problems. Stability may be further exacerbated by the presence of horizontal tectonic stresses. Field studies and numerical model analyses are combined to assess the effect of the dip in various stress conditions. (PDF, 1007 KB, 2005)

This paper analyzes the impact of more accurate transformer models on voltages and fault currents which are realized from loadflow and fault studies of mine power systems. (PDF, 525 KB, 1999)

Tests were conducted in a full-scale ventilation gallery to determine the influence of mining machine-mounted water sprays on airflows and methane concentrations at the face when blowing ventilation systems are used. Test results using different spray arrangements and water pressures showed that operation of the machine-mounted sprayers can improve face ventilation effectiveness by increasing the velocity of airflow moving toward and away from the face. The improved ventilation resulted in reduced methane levels near the face. (PDF, 380 KB, 2006-06)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) conducted experiments to determine if training using a latent- image, three-dimensional (3-D) slide simulation exercise improved miners' abiity to recognize roof and rib hazards. The effectiveness of this innovative type of classroom training was investigated by measuring workers' performance on a hazard recognition task. The study was unique in that hazard recognition skills were assessed in the workplace using actual coal mine roof and rib hazards. Results showed that training with a latent-image, 3- D slide simulation exercise significantly improved each subject's performance on the in-inine hazard recognition task. Further, the USBM researchers concluded that transfer of learning from the classroom to the workplace occurred. (PDF, 11171 KB, 1995)

Explains the overall NIOSH approach to reducing noise-induced hearing loss. (PDF, 1500 KB, 1999-01)
                                                                            

This research evaluated the quality of dust dispersion in the Siwek 20-L chamber using Pittsburgh coal, Gilsonite, and purple K dusts. (PDF, 2264 KB, 2006)

This report is mainly about a ferrocene-based additive that reduced DPM between 4 and 45 pct, depending on engine operating conditions. (PDF, 1756 KB, 1992)

A study was conducted in an underground metal mine to assess the effects of selected diesel emissions control technologies on concentrations of diesel particulate matter and gases in underground mine air. The control technologies included diesel particulate filter (DPF) systems, filtration system with disposable filter elements, diesel oxidation catalytic converter, and biodiesel blends. (PDF, 1752 KB, 2006-05)

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the state-of-the-art technologies for controlling DPM and gaseous emissions from underground diesel-powered mining equipment using the isolated zone approach. (PDF, 4653 KB, 2006-08)

The objective of this study was to determine the in-situ effectiveness of the selected technologies available to the underground mining industry for reducing particulate matter and gaseous emissions from diesel-powered equipment. The protocol was established to determine the effectiveness of those technologies in an underground environment under operating conditions that closely resemble actual production scenarios. (PDF, 1773 KB, 2004)

NIOSH conducted a series of large-scale experiments to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of various concentrations of an inert gas mixture for preventing and suppressing cab fires. This has led to the choice of an optimum gas mixture concentration, discharged in the cab through a muffled nozzle system, for the development of a dual cab fire inerting system. Safety training programs need to accompany this technology. It is important to provide the operator not only with an engine fire suppression system but also with a cab fire protection system, effective both in preventing the ignition of flammable vapors in the cab and suppressing cab material fires. (PDF, 558 KB, 2007)

NIOSH researchers installed 39 instrumented, fully grouted bolts at six test sites in a trona mine retreat panel to study mine roof stability for the improvement of workplace safety. (PDF, 318 KB, 2001)

Based on the anecdotal data, the authors suggest that specific training in working with grieving families and greater organizational support would be appropriate. In addition, utilizing local community mental health and/or pastoral services are suggested. (PDF, 392 KB, 2000-05)

Researchers are investigating the causes and mechanisms of roof failure in underground mines. It is expected that a better understanding of these causes and mechanisms will lead to better layout and support designs that will help prevent accidents and fatalities associated with fall of ground. (PDF, 1531 KB, 2004)

In studies conducted by the Bureau of Mines, two test areas were hydraulically stimulated and exposed by mining: one in the Pittsburgh coalbed at the Vesta No. 5 Mine, Washington County, Pennsylvania; and one in the Illinois No. 6 Coalbed at the Inland Mine, Jefferson County, Illinois. Induced fractures were contained totally within the coalbed with no adverse effect on the stability of associated rock strata. Induced fractures were vertical and were propagated normal to the direction of least residual tectonic stress. Gas production was increased fivefold to twentyfold by hydraulic stimulation. (PDF, 2704 KB, 1977)

The purpose of this study was to examine the lifting capacity of low-seam coal miners in four restricted postures (roof heights of 36", 40", 44", and 48"), investigate the associated metabolic costs, and to examine electromyographic (EMG) data from eight trunk muscles during the lifting procedure. (PDF, 263 KB, 1997)

The objectives of this work are to 1) evaluate the performance of the P7 method on field samples of low quartz mass loadings, 2) evaluate the magnitude of dust mass spatial variability within an enclosed cab environment, and 3) estimate the subsequent propagation of error in calculating the percentage of quartz over a broad range of mass and quartz filter loadings at a surface coal mine. (PDF, 883 KB, 2001-09)

This report examines the effects of mining height on injury rates in U.S. underground nonlongwall bituminous coal mines, controlling for both the employment size of the mine and the mining methods. (PDF, 1914 KB, 1997-11)

The Bureau of Mines performed a pilot study examining the effects of posture on back strength and Maximum Acceptable Weight of Lift on six healthy male subjects (M = 32 years + 4 SD). (PDF, 311 KB, 1997)

This study evaluated spinal loads associated with lifting and hanging heavy mining cable in a variety of postures. (PDF, 702 KB, 2002)
                                     

Coal miners often handle heavy electrical power cables, weighing up to 10 kg per meter. These cables are manually lifted and attached to the mine roof to prevent damage from mobile underground equipment. (PDF, 387 KB, 2001)

This U.S. Bureau of Mines paper discusses the importance of an interface slip mechanism between the coalbed and the surrounding strata in controlling the extent and pattern of stresses and deformations in a coal pillar. (PDF, 531 KB, 1990)

In this study, NIOSH investigated the effects of adsorption artifact on diesel particulate matter samples from occupational settings. (PDF, 175 KB, 2008-07)

Hand scaling is a physically demanding job and is responsible for numerous overexertion injuries in mining. This experiment studied rib scaling from an elevated bucket to examine force generation capabilities and electromyographic responses to a prying subtask. It was concluded that miners should scale points on the rock face that are below their knees, and reposition the bucket as often as necessary to do so. Additional research is needed to fully understand the impact of bar type on the physical demands of an entire scaling task. (PDF, 159 KB, 2006)

This NIOSH study was conducted to establish the effects of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) system with sintered metal substrate on the concentrations and size distributions of nano and ultrafine aerosols and concentrations of nitric oxides in underground mine air, and focused on the formation and transformation of nucleation mode particles in mine air under prevailing test conditions. (PDF, 359 KB, 2008)

This paper presents the results of a NIOSH study to evaluate UCS changes occurring in a broad range of weak coal measure rocks over a one-year time span.  (PDF, 764 KB, 2008)

Stimulated vertical boreholes are an effective means of removing gas from coalbeds in advance of mining. This Bureau of Mines report examines the coal mine roof damage potential of stimulation treatments. Twenty-two government-sponsored stimulation treatments have been mined through to determine the effects on the coalbed and roof strata. (PDF, 3458 KB, 1987)

In this study, the single particle mass spectrometer (SPMS) was applied to explore the composition of DPM, namely the origin of metals and size preferences of metals originating from metallic fuel additives and lube oil. (PDF, 593 KB, 2006-10)

The results of field tests to understand how ventilation and gob characteristics affect the spontaneous heating process causing spontaneous combustion fires in longwall or worked-out gob areas are presented. (PDF, 200 KB, 2008-06)

Reports on the evaluation of water mist for the suppression of underground mine fires, such as fires in diesel fuel storage areas. (PDF, 207 KB, 2004-09)

In this investigative study NIOSH measured for sub-micrometer elemental carbon (EC) using two types of control technologies (ventilation and cabs) which are being implemented in limestone mines.  (PDF, 311 KB, 2008)

The ambient diesel particulate matter (DPM) concentrations (at the intakes and exhausts of the mine) was evaluated as an entire vehicle fleet of a stone mine switched from using 35% biodiesel to a water-emulsified fuel (PuriNOx). (PDF, 664 KB, 2006)

A series of laboratory evaluations examined the impact of water spray pressure, curtain setback distance, and external and underboom spray use for controlling respirable dust levels and sulfur hexafluoride tracer gas concentrations around a continuous mining machine. (PDF, 132 KB, 2006)

Research to determine how machine-mounted water sprays and a scrubber interact to reduce methane levels and what spray configurations provide the best face ventilation when used with a scrubber. (PDF, 320 KB, 2001)

Past studies with blowing face ventilation systems have shown that using a machine-mounted scrubber and water sprays can reduced methane levels at the face. The current research was conducted to determine how the sprays and scrubber interact to reduce methane levels, and what spray configurations provide the best face ventilation when used with a scrubber. (PDF, 311 KB, 2001)

Observations of pillar conditions in limestone mines showed that the presence of weak bands in the limestone can result in pillar damage at stresses that are lower than one would otherwise expect. The objective of this NIOSH study was to investigate the mechanism of failure caused by the presence of weak bands by using a series of numerical models based on realistic physical properties. (PDF, 1398 KB, 2007)

Electric shocks are a serious problem in the mining environment. Electrical accidents, resulting in personal injury, due to improper or complete lack of grounding of electrically operated mining machines, form a significant percentage of the overall electrical accident picture. The object of this paper is to describe methods of detection of unsafe electrical conditions with respect to the grounding of electrically operated mining equipment. (PDF, 1852 KB, 1978-10)

This NIOSH study was conducted to focus future research on the most significant electrical problems in the mining industry. Data from 1,926 mine electrical accidents (including 75 fatalities) that occurred between 1990 and 1999 were studied. (PDF, 81 KB, 2003)

NIOSH has conducted research to improve electrical fault detection on coal mine direct current (dc) trolley systems. Tests were conducted at cooperating mines to assist in developing a neural-network-based detection algorithm for distinguishing between electrical faults and normal operation. (PDF, 334 KB, 1997)

The Bureau of Mines has conducted field studies in coal mines throughout the United States to determine the effectiveness of electromagnetic techniques in locating miners trapped underground following a mine accident. Data from these tests were used to generate models of expected signal and noise distributions as found above these mines. These distributions have aided in placing the expected performance of a through-the-earth electromagnetic communications technique into a probabilistic framework. (PDF, 2972 KB, 1984)

Characteristics of metal-nonmetal mines were evaluated to determine the suitability of applying the Bureau of Mines electromagnetic (em) location system to locating trapped miners. Results indicate that the existing system is inadequate for most metal-nonmetal mines. Alternate approaches to trapped miner location in deep mines were identified, and subsequent field tests were conducted to evaluate their feasibility. The most promising approach uses the existing backpack transmitting system, modified slightly for a dual frequency output, in conjunction with a sophisticated signal processing receiver on the surface. (PDF, 5891 KB, 1979-01-15)

Two different techniques were used to make measurements of the absolute value of electromagnetic noise in an operating hardrock mine, Grace Mine, located near Morgantown, Pennsylvania. Diesel-powered haulage equipment is used in this mine, and the electromagnetic noise environment it creates was measured to see how it differs from the environment created by electric-powered haulage equipment. The specific measured results are given in a number of spectral plots and amplitude probability distribution plots. (PDF, 4884 KB, 1974)

Two different techniques were used to make measurements of the absolute value of electromagnetic noise in an operating coal mine, Itmann No. 3 Mine, located near Mullens, West Virginia. The electromagnetic environment created by 250-volt dc and 550- and 950-volt ac machinery in two longwall panels was measured and is reported. The specific, measured results are given in a number of spectral plots and amplitude probability distribution plots. (PDF, 3882 KB, 1974)

Measurements of the absolute value of electromagnetic noise and attenuation along a hoist rope were made in an operating Hard-Rock Mine, Lucky Friday Mine, located near Wallace, Idaho. The specific measured results are given in a number of spectral plots, amplitude probability distribution plots, and amplitude curves as a function of depth. (PDF, 4197 KB, 1974)

Two different techniques were used to make measurements of the absolute value of electromagnetic noise in and above an operating coal mine, McElroy Mine, located near Moundsville, West Virginia. The electromagnetic environment created by 300-volt dc and 480-volt ac machinery was measured. The specific, measured results are given in a number of spectral plots and amplitude probability distribution plots. (PDF, 5606 KB, 1974)

Two different techniques were used to make measurements of the absolute value of electromagnetic noise in an operating coal mine, Robena No. 4, located near Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. One technique measures noise over the entire electromagnetic spectrum of interest for brief time periods. The other technique records noise envelopes at several discrete frequencies for a sufficient amount of time to provide amplitude probability distributions. The specific measured results are given in a number of spectral plots and amplitude probability distribution plots. (PDF, 5663 KB, 1974)

This paper describes a general purpose imaging technology developed by the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) that, when fully implemented, will solve the general problem of 'seeing into the earth.' (PDF, 141 KB, 1994)

This report covers magnetic field strength measurements versus range and frequency in low to medium coal mines. Both quasi-conductor-free and conductor-proximity areas were investigated. The program covered five mines, four seams, six measurement sets, and three geographic areas. The results are summarized in terms of maximum communication range expected per seam and noise condition. Scatter gain is further explored as a simple measure of energy coupled to conductors. (PDF, 2533 KB, 1978)

The U.S. Department of Energy Pittsburgh Research Center, has developed and field tested a spatial, spectral sensor for measuring the thickness of mineral deposits. (PDF, 30 KB, 1996)

The Bureau of Mines electromagnetic trapped miner location and communications system requires a thorough understanding of through- the-earth electromagnetic wave propagation. An earth model incorporating a magnetic dipole buried in a three-layered earth has been developed. The dipole source is located in the second subsurface layer. By application of proper limiting values, the three-layered model is reduced to two different two-layered models and eventually to the homogeneous half-space model. The solutions are in the form of infinite integrals. A numerical analysis was carried out and a computer program written to evaluate the surface magnetic fields. Numerical values for the magnetic field at the point above the source are presented in a variety of models. (PDF, 486 KB, 1982)

The theory of electromagnetic fields indicates such fields could be used to detect and locate trapped miners. To be useful, the hardware of the system must meet a number of requirements, including small size, intrinsic safety, and rugged construction. Such hardware has been built, and the system has been tested by the Bureau of Mines and its contractors. These tests indicate that the electromagnetic method provides a practical means to locate miners in emergencies. (PDF, 652 KB, 1976)

The Bureau of Mines has developed hardware for electromagnetic (EM) detection and location of miners trapped in underground coal mines. This report describes a technique for using the developed equipment for locating uncased boreholes underground. Results of several field and laboratory experiments are described. (PDF, 738 KB, 1978)

This report contains a summary of analytical research on electromagnetic methods of nondestructive testing of cylindrical conductors. The principal objective is to providc theoretical insight to the operation of electromagnetic sensing of the internal properties of wire ropes that are used extensively in mine hoists. An overall review of past work is also included. (PDF, 5283 KB, 1979)

A prototype electromagnetic (em) location system consisting of six miniature transmitters, six miniature receivers, and one multichannel receiver was developed by Westinghouse Georesearch Laboratory and is described in this report. The equipment was designed to operate in a deep coal mine of relatively high overburden conductivity. (PDF, 7355 KB, 1973-07)

The purpose of this program is to extend electromagnetic (EM) techniques for use in locating miners trapped in mines as deep as 1000 m. A previously developed EM system is considered adequate for use at mines less than 300 m deep where it has a probability of detection of 54%. A system for deep mines must keep underground equipment simple, and use extremely low frequencies (ELF), sensitive receivers, and noise cancellation. The proposed location method, developed by Develco for other applications, is based on vector field measurements from two or more static sensors and computation of source location by iterative techniques. During Phase II, very sensitive search coil sensors were built and used in a separate test to verify the feasibility of atmospheric noise cancellation.  (PDF, 4447 KB, 1984)

This training material focuses on the content of emergency warning messages. Research has shown that when an emergency occurs, people often do not get the information they need for the purpose of taking appropriate action. (PDF, 256 KB, 1999-10)

This paper discusses emergency response planning with a special emphasis on small minesites. It addresses the importance of an emergency response plan and offers some tips for developing a useful document. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

Since 1991, researchers have recorded extensive interviews with 30 individuals who are recognized as experts in the area of mine emergency response. These veterans related stories and observations from events experienced during as many as 47 years of response activities. (PDF, 1024 KB, 1996)

This paper discusses a) the results of a ground-based hyperspectral imaging tool used to map the geology of an open-pit mine highwall; and b) interferometric synthetic aperture radar and how it can be used in a variety of geotechnical situations. It is hopeful that these new developments will lead to better geotechnical monitoring and design in slope stability and other important areas of rock mechanics. (PDF, 468 KB, 2001)

This paper discusses NIOSH studies evaluating the impacts of emerging technologies that may reduce dust exposures for continuous mining and roof bolting personnel. These technologies include use of a wet-head cutting drum on a continuous mining machine, a canopy air curtain for protecting roof bolting personnel, and mist drilling technology for controlling respirable dust exposures of bolting personnel. (PDF, 292 KB, 2006)

This paper describes technology and realistic training simulations that have been identified for the general workforce and mine emergency responders. (PDF, 185 KB, 2001)

A major focus of ground control research presently being conducted by the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is to incorporate weak rock masses (such as are associated with operations in the Carlin Trend in Nevada) into existing design relationships. The original database that led to most of the empirical design relationships presently employed in hard-rock mining was derived from fair-to-good-quality rock. In this study, the relationship between weak rock quality and opening design (non-entry/entry methods) is being investigated. The common factor in all mines is a weak back or wall. This work attempts to provide tools that will enable a mine operator to make economic decisions that will also ensure a safe working environment. (PDF, 334 KB, 2005)

A major focus of ground control research is to incorporate weak rock masses (such as are associated with operations in the Carlin Trend in Nevada) into existing design relationships. The original database that led to most of the empirical design relationships presently employed in hard-rock mining was derived from fair-to-good-quality rock. In this study, the relationship between weak rock quality and opening design (nonentry/entry methods) is being investigated. The common factor in all mines is a weak back or wall. This work attempts to provide tools that will enable a mine operator to make economic decisions that will also ensure a safe working environment. (PDF, 401 KB, 2003)

This paper presents a focus of ground control research presently being conducted by the Rock Mechanics Group in the DBC Mining Department in incorporating weak rock masses (RMR₇₆ <50) into existing empirical design relationships. This work attempts to provide rock mechanic tools that will enable a mine operator to make economic decisions that will also ensure a safe working environment. (PDF, 115 KB, 2008)

The intent of this article is to provide guidance to mine operators concerning the use of four techniques for influencing mine employees to work safely: (1) employee surveys, (2) incentives, (3) fear communications, and (4) disciplinary actions. (PDF, 52 KB, 1995)

The goal of this project was to design and evaluate devices that can be installed with traditional primary or secondary roof supports, and that are easy to handle/install under temporary or previously supported roof. (PDF, 5119 KB, 2001)

Researchers at the U. S. Bureau of Mines conducted investigations to evaluate the potential for ground watercontamination by mine waste used as backfill. Samples of cemented waste backfill and water discharging fromdrillholes and seeps were collected to use in chemical analyses and laboratory tests to determine the physical andchemical factors that control release of heavy metals to ground water. (PDF, 351 KB, 1996)

NIOSH has developed a patented active proximity warning system called HASARD (Hazardous Area Signaling and Ranging Device) which employs lowfrequency, low-power magnetic fields which are quite impervious to severe environmental conditions. This paper details the HASARD system, describes the tests that have been done, and mentions other areas where it can benefit the safety of industrial workers. (PDF, 192 KB, 2001)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health conducted a cross-sectional survey of noise sources and worker noise exposures. The studies revealed that more than 40% of all workers monitored were subject to noise exposures above 90 dBA TWA8. A summary of these studies is presented, their application to administrative and engineering controls is discussed, and exposure reduction methods are reviewed. (PDF, 10065 KB, 2006-12)

The work presented in this paper focuses on the relationship between the PDM and respirable dust concentrations currently measured by a coal mine dust personal sampler unit utilizing a 10 mm Dorr Oliver nylon cyclone. (PDF, 197 KB, 2008-01)

NIOSH researchers conducted a study to compare seat designs on underground coal mine haulage vehicles. The objective of the study was to support prior findings that NIOSH-designed seats, which incorporated ergonomics design features (e.g., viscoelastic foam padding and low-back support), are improved designs. The authors summarize the data collected and operator preferences for seat designs and different foam padding arrangements. (PDF, 1552 KB, 2003-10)

This paper examines occupational safety concerns associated with deep-cut mining. Mining deeper cuts may have some unknown effects on how miners position themselves for visibility, the types of accidents that can occur, and the new interactions between the equipment and the continuous miner operator. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

This study examined musculoskeletal injury risk at four mining sites: underground coal, underground limestone, surface copper, and surface phosphate. (PDF, 2334 KB, 2004-08)

The objective of this study was to systematically characterize the ergonomic hazards associated with excavating operations. (PDF, 842 KB, 2001)
                            

In 2004, management at Unimin's Gleason, TN operation began implementing ergonomic interventions specifically targeted to reduce risk of musculoskeletal injuries (MSls). This paper discusses ergonomic interventions that were successfully implemented using a bottom-up approach to reducing the risk of injury.  (PDF, 953 KB, 2007-02)

Many mining companies apply ergonomic principles, but it is done either informally and/or reactively. This paper discusses how Vulcan Materials Company applied ergonomic principles and the interventions implemented to reduce risk factor exposures. (PDF, 430 KB, 2007-11)

This paper reports the results of a study performed to evaluate ergonomic exposures among operators of heavy construction equipment. It also provides recommendations for reducing ergonomic exposures such as vibration and postural stress. (PDF, 314 KB, 2002)

This paper describes the underground mine trials and the testing done to evaluate properties of the viscoelastic foams. The paper also discusses the development of an analytical model using the data from underground trials and the foam testing. (PDF, 157 KB, 1997-06)

This paper describes the underground mine trials and the testing done to evaluate properties of the use of viscoelastic foams to reduce shock for the equipment operator and improve seats on mine shuttle cars. The paper also discusses the development of an analytical model using the data from underground trials and the foam testing. (PDF, 1368 KB, 1998-04)

This document describes how Bridger Coal Company implemented an ergonomics process at its Jim Bridger Mine from 2001 through 2004. The process developed by the Ergonomics Committee, the promotion of the process to management and employees, and the impacts of the process on working conditions at the mine are reviewed. Barriers overcome and lessons learned are also described. (PDF, 6094 KB, 2006)

The US Bureau of Mines conducted an evaluation of roof-bolting tasks performed at an underground coal mine concerned about early warning signs of cumulative trauma. (PDF, 620 KB, 2001)

This paper presents details of the process integration, and several examples of task-specific interventions that reduced exposure to risk factors as a result of a partnership between NIOSH and the Badger Mining Croporation. (PDF, 500 KB, 2008-03)

The health and financial costs of cumulative injuries are plaguing the mining industry. Many mines are realizing that the only way to tackle their most costly injuries, cumulative injuries, is to make the proactive choice to understand those injuries, their root causes and to make workplace changes to prevent them from occurring. The benefits of a formalized approach to reducing these injuries along with examples is presented.  (PDF, 139 KB, 2007-02)

In response to the underground mining Industry's growing concern with the exposure of workers to the diesel particulate matter (DPM) component of diesel exhaust, a method was developed to estimate the average workplace concentration of DPM that could be expected from using the new lower DPM-emitting engines now being approved by the US mines Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) when these new engines are equipped with state-of-the-art exhaust-control technology for filtering and combusting DPM. (PDF, 665 KB, 2001-09)

Identifies the most significant noise radiating surfaces on a continuous miner tail section and examines the effects of three engineering noise controls. (PDF, 1208 KB, 2003-06)

The Bureau of Mines estimated the methane content of a coal, which depends primarily upon rank and pressure, from the adsorption equation V = kPn, where k and n are constants related to rank. By incorporating corrections for moisture, ash, and temperature, and estimating pressure and temperature as a function of depth, the methane content of coal in place can be estimated . Although estimated values were consistently high for several high-volatile bituminous coals from an area where the pressure is known to be less than hydrostatic, the estimated methane content for most coals shows reasonable agreement with values determined by the direct method. (PDF, 820 KB, 1977)

Researchers at the U.S. Bureau of Mines investigated the use of close-range photogrammetry and subsequent stereo digitizing to obtain data from rock fracture roughness profiles. (PDF, 3830 KB, 1993)

Provides guidelines for more effective use of the ultrasonic anemometer. (PDF, 215 KB, 2004-05)
                                                                               

NIOSH is conducting full-scale laboratory studies to evaluate dust liberation and control for dust generated by shearer cutting. (PDF, 650 KB, 2001)
                       

Examines a procedure for measuring the response time of machine-mounted methane monitors (PDF, 351 KB, 2002)
                                                               

Several remote-sensing technologies are being evaluated as tools to monitor slopes for hazards and to assess slope stability. (PDF, 3017 KB, 2002)
                          

The Bureau of Mines used sulfur hexafluoride (sf6) tracer gas to evaluate the effectiveness of gob ventilation and/or sealing practices at three coal mines, each having different problems associated with their mined-out areas. The purpose of these ventilation studies was to better understand whether current techniques employed for ventilation or sealing are successful at minimizing the potential for gob fires and explosions. (PDF, 1208 KB, 1986)

Six different types of blasting caps, mainly of the type used in coal mines, were evaluated to determine both their radio frequency and direct current characteristics. Two of the caps were of foreign manufacture. A worst case analysis of blasting cap pickup of radio frequency power in coal mines was performed, and safe distance curves were generated. (PDF, 6557 KB, 1973)

The Bureau of Mines has developed a prototype nonincendive explosive rock-breaker charge that can be fired unconfined in underground bituminous coal mines without the danger of igniting a flammable atmosphere that might be present. (PDF, 1087 KB, 1982-04)

A report evaluating a wireless signaling and warning system for underground mines applicable to both coal and non-coal mines. A TeleMagnetic Signalling Systems wireless ultra-low-frequency electromagnetic signaling system was installed. A commercial smoke sensor was interfaced to a remote portable transmitter, and the alarm of the sensor was used to trigger the central evacuation and paging transmitter system during experimental mine fires. (PDF, 1087 KB, 1997-05)

Production trends were analyzed for 82 gob gas ventholes on 7 longwall panels in the Lower Kittanning Coalbed, Pennsylvania. (PDF, 1029 KB, 1994)
                           

Catalyzed diesel particulate filters (CDPF's) reduce the concentration of diesel particulate matter (DPM) and may reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC) in diesel exhaust. The Cannon Mine and the U.S. Bureau of Mines collaborated to evaluate the durability and performance of a CDPF. (PDF, 3408 KB, 1993)

This paper discusses wood crib fire tests, conducted by NIOSH and MSHA, provides insight into the products of combustion and describes observations made during the application of the fire suppression agents. (PDF, 675 KB, 2008)

NIOSH and MSHA are conducting research to test, evaluate, improve or modify coal mine fire-fighting strategies and methodologies through large-scale tests. Since wood is the second most abundant fuel available during a coal mine fire, it was decided that series of large-scale wood crib fire tests were needed to measure the products of combustion and to observe the capability of commonly available direct application fire suppression equipment, namely, fire extinguishers, water and gas-enhanced foam. This paper discusses the wood crib fire tests, provides insight into the products of combustion and describes observations made during the application of the fire suppression agents. (PDF, 838 KB, 2007-12)

Blind areas around construction equipment are a major contributing factor in incidents involving a piece of equipment striking a worker. This paper evaluates several systems for allowing equipment operators to monitor blind areas around equipment. (PDF, 652 KB, 2004-10)

This analysis will indicate safe following distances for haul trucks and other heavy equipment to avoid overexposure to respirable dust from the lead haul truck. (PDF, 722 KB, 2005-02)

An analysis of extensive noise and urethane durability testing on a Joy 14CM9 continuous miner's conveyor assembly, tail roller, and bottom plate and a discussion of the initial underground testing results for the urethane-coated conveyor flights and tail roller. (PDF, 327 KB, 2003-06)

Evaluation of the strength characteristics and air leakage resistance of numerous innovative seal designs and ventilation control structures for use in underground coal mines. (PDF, 6078 KB, 2002)

Improvements in remote firefighting technology are needed to reduce miner exposure to the dangers of fires and possibly save the lives of those who may become trapped. NIOSH, in cooperation with U.S. Foam Technologies, Inc., conducted a series of experiments at the NIOSH Lake Lynn Experimental Mine to study the stability, transport, control, and fire extinguishing effectiveness of nitrogen-enhanced foam technology. This paper describes the mine test configurations and experimental results. (PDF, 968 KB, 2005)

Instrumented cable bolts developed at the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health were used in conjunction with existing ground control systems to monitor rock mass loads at Tg Soda Ash's trona mine in Granger, WY. (PDF, 664 KB, 2001)

Whereas many researchers and mine engineers have conducted tests on cable bolts using various grouts, water:cement ratios, and physical modifications of the cable to determine the load-carrying characteristics of a bolt, few studies have been conducted on cable bolts fitted with internal instruments. Researchers at the Spokane Research Laboratory (SRL) of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in Spokane, WA, are investigating the physical properties of cable bolts by replacing the conventional king wire with a modified king wire on which strain gauges have been installed. (PDF, 615 KB, 2004-04)

Report on a series of performance tests conducted on the IYONI II methanometer. Testing methods included use of a calibration fixture, an environmental test box and a full scale test gallery. (PDF, 411 KB, 2003)

The objective of this project was to develop technical data and evaluate performance and utility of leaky feeder communications systems currently used in U.S. underground mines. (PDF, 6303 KB, 1980-06)

This paper examines methods for limiting occupational silica exposures for roof bolting personnel in underground coal mining. It also evaluates a metal rake, a flexible insert, and a rigid insert for cleaning the roof bolter dust collector box. (PDF, 393 KB, 2002-02)

Roof falls are often preceded by a period of elevated microseismic activity, but not all periods of elevated activity result in a roof fall, nor do all roof falls occur after some amount of elevated activity. The objective of this study is to review periods of elevated microseismic activity and determine whether fracture activity rate can be used to anticipate the initiation of roof falls. The results show that limited success would have been achieved by the microseismic system as a roof fall alarm trigger. However, the trigger would have been successful at warning of the onset of elevated activity, allowing mine employees to respond appropriately. (PDF, 253 KB, 2007)

The analysis of a machine-luminaire configuration is a time consuming process requiring the construction of a machine mockup, installation of a designated lighting arrangement, and an extensive set of illumination measurements. This entire process, however, is well suited to computer analysis. By simulating the machine geometry and the characteristics of the desired luminaires, the incident light levels can be calculated at the required set of points. This Bureau of Mines paper presents a general description of the techniques involved in performing this simulation. (PDF, 4043 KB, 1978-10)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health used ground penetrating radar technology to determine if each of three test mine seals were uniformly constructed. The results suggest that GPR could be used as a tool to evaluate mine seal characteristics and construction uniformity. (PDF, 1695 KB, 2005)

NIOSH researchers assert that the use of a realistic scenario interview will result in frank and detailed responses from face crew members. This approach provides an effective means of acquiring worker perceptions of the types of hazards that exist, the relative magnitude of the hazards, and what could be done to reduce or eliminate hazards. (PDF, 770 KB, 1998-10)

main objective of this research was to determine if there were peripheral visual performance improvements for the detection of moving objects when using cool-white light-emitting diode (LED) cap lamps as compared to incandescent (INC) light bulbs commonly used in miner cap lamps. The second objective was to determine if age is a factor for peripheral visual performance. (PDF, 141 KB, 2008)

This paper describes test procedures used to evaluate performance of methane monitors that could be used underground for continuous personal monitoring of methane. The information in this report provides data that allow the reader to make side-by side comparisons of these instruments. (PDF, 415 KB, 2005)

Studies conducted have identified a number of "risk factors" that can be used to evaluate pillar extraction plans: cut sequence; final stump; timber or mobile roof supports; roof bolting; intersection span; depth of cover; roof quality; and age or workings. This paper discusses each of the risk factors in turn, presents the relevant accident statistics, and shows how the risk factors can be combined to estimate the overall hazard. (PDF, 636 KB, 2002-08)

Strength characteristics and air leakage resistance of seals and designs of water traps used in underground coal mines were evaluated in a joint effort by the Pittsburgh Research Center and the Mine Safety and Health Administration. The efficacies of various seals in limiting air leakage from a sealed area following an explosion were tested. (PDF, 1584 KB, 1996)

Polyurethane injection is a proven method of rock stabilization in even the weakest, most broken ground. Optimization of the injection design by pre-injection video diagnostics can greatly contribute to the successful and efficient roof stabilization. (PDF, 373 KB, 2004)

NIOSH cooperated with Tecrete Industries Pty. Ltd. and BHP Australia Coal to evaluate the strength characteristics and air leakage of four seal and two stopping designs for use in underground coal mines. (PDF, 4206 KB, 1999)

NIOSH is conducting full-scale underground experiments at its Lake Lynn Experimental Mine to identify and remedy existing shortcomings of remote sealing technology in order to develop novel technologies and to transfer the new or improved technologies to the mining industry. This paper discusses the remote mine seal testing program and provides the results of the in-mine experiments. (PDF, 1592 KB, 2006)

The objectives of this study were to examine a representative cross section of formal safety analysis techniques developed for the nuclear and aerospace industries, to recommend those methods that would be suitable for application to the mining industry, and to include those methods in a user's manual. (PDF, 5168 KB, 1983-05)

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the integrity of the existing shutoff valves and actuators used under high-temperature conditions in the Bureau of Mines horizontal borehole methane drainage pipeline system and to determine the potential for improvement in the system. Based on the test results, it was concluded that the brass ball valve used in the Bureau methane drainage pipeline system can be retrofitted with an inexpensive fire bag to substantially increase its integrity under mine fire conditions. (PDF, 994 KB, 1986)

This study focused on reducing injury risk by improving seating on transport vehicles such as scoops, mantrips, personnel carriers, and rail-mounted locomotives. Proposed seat design improvements included layering of various types of viscoelastic foam padding to isolate vehicle occupants and operators from adverse health effects of jarring/jolting exposure. (PDF, 277 KB, 2006)

To help evaluate the usefulness of the natural gamma radiation (NGR) technique for the coal interface detection (CID) project, the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) collected data from various mining companies conducting underground and surface operations in 15 major and 110 minor coal seams in the United States (1).2 This work was done in support of the USBM goal to improve the method of recovering coal from the nation's mines in a safe and economical manner. (PDF, 2527 KB, 1995)

Six smoke detectors were measured with respect to visually obscuring smoke characterized by a corresponding optical density for smoldering and flaming coal combustion in a smoke chamber. The responsive characteristics of the detectors evaluated with respect to known smoke conditions in the smoke chamber shows their potential for use as mine fire sensors or part of a mine atmospheric monitoring system to improve mine safety. (PDF, 235 KB, 1995)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines conducted explosion tests on various full- scale cementitious bulkheads used in abandoned mine areas to evaluate the ability of the bulkheads to withstand gas explosion overpressures of 20 psig. Tests were performed on 120-ft2 solid- concrete-block seals of varying thicknesses and designs. Of the seven solid-concrete-block seals tested, only the standard-type seal, having a 16-in thickness, keyed at the floor and ribs, all joints mortared, wedged at the roof, and a center pilaster, maintained its integrity when subjected to a 20-psig pressure wave. (PDF, 1274 KB, 1991)

A cooperative study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of (partially) pre-driven longwall recovery rooms supported with pumpable roof supports. This paper evaluates the load transfer mechanics associated with the advancement of the longwall face into the pre-driven recovery room and the widening of the room to recover the longwall shields. (PDF, 608 KB, 2007)

The majority of fatalities that occur in road construction work zones in the United States involve a workerbeing struck by a piece of construction equipment or other vehicle. The Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in cooperation with the Washington State Department of Transportation, is evaluating methods to decrease these accidents. One such method uses devices that assist equipment operators in monitoring blind areas around the equipment to prevent collisions with workers on foot or other objects. (PDF, 5677 KB, 2003-02)

A project to evaluate the South African bagged stone dust explosion barrier was successfully completed at the NIOSH Lake Lynn Experimental Mine. (PDF, 658 KB, 2001)

An evaluation was made of one of several improved underground communication systems sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Mines. The system was installed in a typical metal-nonmetal, room-and-pillar mine and utilized ultrahigh frequency repeaters connected to a unique distributed antenna and passive reflector system which provided mine-wide communications. (PDF, 2997 KB, 1982-02)

Numerical modeling is used to evaluate the degree the pillar strength is increased with a rectangular pillar over a square pillar. (PDF, 164 KB, 2007)

The conclusion drawn from this study was that standing supports do not have sufficient capacity to control main roof or floor loading or prevent the resulting convergence of the tailgate entry. (PDF, 255 KB, 2005)

This study presents a reservoir modeling approach to investigate the relative effects of different coalbed parameters on the migration of methane into development entries. This work shows that coupling reservoir simulations with linear modeling yields a technique that can be applicable to different coalbeds. (PDF, 663 KB, 2008-09)

This report discusses the configuration and system deployment for the postdisaster surface seismic system for detecting and locating trapped miners. It analyzes the results of 15 field tests to define a signal model, background noise levels, and subarray performance.  (PDF, 2514 KB, 1981-11)

The SKC, Inc., Dust Detective (SKCDD) is an affordable, person-wearable, real-time dust monitor. The relationship of dust concentrations measured by personal gravimetric samplers to those measured by the SKCDD was determined in a laboratory aerosol chamber. Results demonstrated that the SKCDD is a viable alternative means for measuring dust. While it provides accurate measurements for specific coal types, it requires correction factors (which still need to be calculated) for other coal types. (PDF, 159 KB, 2006)

A commercial version of the BOM impactor, called the DPM Cassette, was recently introduced by SKC®. Tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of the DPM Cassette for measuring diesel-source elemental carbon in the presence of coal dust. (PDF, 619 KB, 2004-12)

This paper investigates some of the issues affecting pillar strength at low width-to-height ratios in hard, brittle rock. The investigation includes an evaluation of empirical pillar strength data presented in the literature and observations of pillar performance in underground limestone mines in the Eastern United States, supplemented by numerical modeling in which failure processes and sensitivity of slender pillars to variations in rock mass properties are evaluated. The results showed that the strength of slender pillars is more variable than that of wider pillars. (PDF, 1206 KB, 2006-01)

Investigates some of the issues affecting pillar strength at low width-to-height ratios in hard, brittle rock. The investigation includes an evaluation of empirical pillar strength data presented in the literature and observations of pillar performance in underground limestone mines in the Eastern United States, supplemented by numerical modeling in which failure processes and sensitivity of slender pillars to variations in rock mass properties are evaluated. (PDF, 677 KB, 2006)

A new protocol based on arching has been developed to determine the true transverse load capacity of stoppings. (PDF, 7182 KB, 2005)
                                        

The increased effectiveness of a two-phase spray system (TPSS) over a single-phase system (SPSS) for dust suppression is reported in several laboratory studies. (PDF, 723 KB, 2000-09)

This paper discusses progress in the science of coal pillar design over the past 25 years and some of the current research needs. (PDF, 664 KB, 2006)
                      

A major concern in the mining industry today is how to train the present aging workforce plus the expected influx of new and less experienced miners and mine operators as the cohort of older workers retire. (PDF, 310 KB, 2001-08)

The motivation behind this investigation was to apply an established theory to better understand three potential antecedents to intentions toward wearing hearing protection among coal miners. (PDF, 847 KB, 2008-02)

This report examines shield design and operation practices and their consequences for the utilization of high-capacity shield support systems. An optimization goal is to minimize support loading by selecting an active shield setting force that is compatible with strata behavior and shield loading characteristics. (PDF, 1569 KB, 1992)

This paper describes a series of engine/dynamometer tests which were conducted to assess the effects of three types of uncatalyzed diesel particulate filters (DPFs), a diesel oxidation catalytic converter (DOC) and three types of high temperature disposable filter elements (HT DFEs) on the concentrations and size distribution of diesel aerosols and concentration of nitric oxides in underground mine air. (PDF, 417 KB, 2007)

A close look at the Loyalhanna Limestone of southwestern Pennsylvania reveals a complex structural environment.  Geologic and engineering analyses were performed using gas well and core logs, outcrop examinations, underground observations, and mine maps. Many of the structural conditions cause ground control problems at local quarries. (PDF, 2678 KB, 2002)

The focus of this work is drill shroud dust leakage and the relationships of various drill parameters on this leakage. Given that exposures of surface coal mine rock drillers to respirable crystalline silica are of particular concern, substantial reductions of airborne silica dust during drilling may be estimated and achieved through use of the analysis presented. (PDF, 292 KB, 2008-09)

NIOSH conducted a study to determine the human response issues related to wearing an SCSR. This article describes the findings and discusses the expectations training program developed from the data. The program includes the normal human response in an emergency. (PDF, 140 KB, 2008-10)

A field test of the NIOSH-developed training product "I Can't Get Enough Air" was conducted to determine if it led to improvements in miner's scores on a true/false test of their SCSR's functional capabilities and proper usage. (PDF, 432 KB, 2004)

A whole mine, computer-controlled communication and monitoring system for both normal and emergency use is installed and operating in the U.S. Steel Robena Mine complex near Uniontown, Pa. Experience with the system is reviewed.  (PDF, 851 KB, 1976)

Results of diesel fuel fire experiments conducted to determine the critical air velocity for preventing smoke rollback. Experimental results compared very well with model predictions based upon a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) fire dynamics simulator. (PDF, 282 KB, 2005)

Results of diesel fuel fire experiments conducted to determine the critical air velocity for preventing smoke rollback. Experimental results compared very well with model predictions based upon a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) fire dynamics simulator. (PDF, 362 KB, 2006)

This paper presents an experimental investigation of an improved technique for on-line detection of induction motor stator winding degradation. This paper begins with a brief description of the detectors, followed by a detailed description of the experimental setup, the experiments conducted, and results. (PDF, 628 KB, 2000)

Explosion characteristics such as the minimum explosible concentration and the rock dust inerting requirements were measured for various combustible dusts. The explosion resistance characteristics of seals was also evaluated. (PDF, 590 KB, 2000-05)

The Bureau of Mines investigated factors that influence the formation of methane and other hydrocarbon gases in coal, which is an integral part of the coalification process. (PDF, 737 KB, 1978)

This paper presents experimental results for conveyor belt flame spread from tests conducted in a small-scale tunnel. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of belt type, ventilation velocity, belt surface-to-roof distance and ignition source power on the flame spread properties. (PDF, 377 KB, 2007)

Often the interpretations of rules pertaining to machine guarding lead to a variety of guarding applications at the worksite. This paper describes a training intervention that offers an opportunity to apply general guarding rules and regulations to a specific situation. This type of training may be useful in defining and seeking solutions to the apparent variability in the interpretation and application of guarding requirements. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

This report describes a study designed to evaluate a proposed modification in the cap lamp battery cord intended to reduce the incidence of snagging and catching of the cord. (PDF, 1915 KB, 1980)

Thirty-six human lumbar motion segments were fatigue tested using spinal compressive and shear loads that simulated lifting a 9 kg weight in three torso flexion angles. Results indicated that stellate endplate fractures were associated with increased posterior shear forces and less degenerated discs. The results suggest that prediction of failure modes (e.g., specific endplate fracture patterns) may be possible (at least for older specimens) given knowledge of the spinal loads along with certain characteristics of the lumbar spine. (PDF, 121 KB, 2006-03)

This joint MSHA and NIOSH study was designed to simulate actual explosion accidents in coal mines where some crosscut stoppings near the ignition location survived the initial explosion pressure pulse, but stoppings farther away were destroyed. The construction and testing methods, explosion test data, and postexplosion condition of each stopping design are presented in this report. (PDF, 23831 KB, 2008-11)

NIOSH and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) conducted joint research to evaluate explosion blast effects on mine ventilation stoppings at the NIOSH Lake Lynn Experimental Mine. The LLEM data showed that a total pressure of 52 kPa (7.6 psi) destroyed the solid-concrete-block stopping, ~36 kPa (~5.2 psi) destroyed the hollow-core concrete-block stopping, and 9 kPa (1.3 psi) destroyed the steel panel stopping. (PDF, 233 KB, 2006-06)

This report presents a historical framework detailing the impact of geologic features on excess gas emissions and resultant mine explosions. It also provides operators with specific information on recognizing and alleviating potential hazards from methane emissions related to these geologic features. (PDF, 799 KB, 2008-04)

Although methane explosions are dangerous, those that involve coal dust are even more so. If exploding methane disperses and ignites the coal dust that has accumulated on the mine ribs and floor, the burning coal dust immeasurably increases the strength of the explosion. Such methane-dust explosions are prevented by inerting the coal dust in a way that prevents the exploding methane from igniting it. This chapter discusses the dust hazard and how it is prevented in U.S. coal mines. (PDF, 4851 KB, 2006)

Seals are used in underground coal mines throughout the United States to isolate abandoned mining areas from the active workings. Prior to the Sago Mine disaster in 2006, mining regulations required seals to withstand a 140-kPa (20-psig) explosion pressure (30 CFR4 75.335(a)(2)). However, Program Information Bulletin No. P06-16 issued by MSHA on July 19, 2006, requires seals to withstand a 345-kPa (50-psig) explosion pressure. The recently enacted MINER Act requires MSHA to increase this design standard by the end of 2007. This report provides a sound scientific and engineering justification to recommend a three-tiered explosion pressure design criterion for new seals in coal mines in response to the MINER Act. The recommendations contained herein apply to new seal design and construction in U.S. coal mines. (PDF, 2768 KB, 2007-07)

This paper outlines the legal standards and methods for protecting underground coal mines in the United States from explosions of methane gas and coal dust. New research will also be presented on the inertization of float coal dust in mines through the addition of inert stone dust and on the application of the Coal Dust Explosibility Meter, a handheld device developed by NIOSH to directly measure the explosibility of a coal dust - limestone dust mixture based on optical reflectivity. (PDF, 46 KB, 2007)

The Pittsburgh Research Laboratory of NIOSH conducted a study of the explosibility of various metals and other elemental dusts, with a focus on the experimental explosion temperatures. The data are useful for understanding the basics of dust cloud combustion, as well as for evaluating explosion hazards in the minerals and metals processing industries. (PDF, 1281 KB, 2007-07)

NIOSH conducted a study of the explosibility of various metals and other elemental dusts dispersed in air, with a focus on the experimental explosion temperatures. The data are useful for understanding the basics of dust cloud combustion, as well as for evaluating the explosion hazards in the minerals and metals processing industries. (PDF, 1476 KB, 2006)

NIOSH is conducting research aimed at helping mine planners prevent hazardous conditions due to multiple-seam interactions. More than 300 case histories have been collected from underground mines mainly in central Appalachia. This paper focuses on several of the more challenging situations that have been encountered, including: room-and-pillar development 20 ft beneath full-extraction workings at a depth of 1,000 ft of cover; pillar recovery 45 ft above full-extraction workings at 900 ft of cover; near-simultaneous room-and-pillar mining with pillar recovery with 40 ft of interburden and 1,500-2,000 ft of cover; and longwall mining directly beneath main entries in overlying seams. (PDF, 629 KB, 2006)

The face ventilation measurement method developed by the Bureau of Mines involves releasing a small volume of tracer gas (SF6) on the off-curtain side of the working face at the start of the mining cycle. At the same time, gas bottle samples are taken in the immediate return airway. The gas samples are analyzed, and a curve is drawn of SF6 concentration versus time. From this curve, the percentage of gas removed per time is calculated. The method was shown to be a simple and effective way of evaluating face ventilation systems. (PDF, 457 KB, 1980)

The difficulties in hand recording, editing, and coding observational data can limit both its utility and effectiveness as a tool in exposure assessments. Researchers conducted a feasibility study employing a method of collecting observational data using a hand-held personal digital assistant (PDA). The use of PDAs to record workplace observations allows for greater ease, speed, and accuracy when capturing workplace behaviors and events as compared to traditional methods. Furthermore, PDAs provide greater detail during exposure analysis. Limitations of the process are also be discussed. (PDF, KB, 2005)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines, under a Memorandum of Agreement with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), established design criteria for a facility to melt residues from municipal waste combustion. The facility, which is available to potential users on a cost-sharing basis, is also applicable to a variety of inorganic waste materials from smelting or melting operations. (PDF, 5709 KB, 1993)

Study of toxic fumes produced by the detonation of various ammonium nitrate/fuel oil (ANFO) mixtures and several cap-sensitive explosives. (PDF, 307 KB, 2000-02)

Study of toxic fumes produced by the detonation of ANFO/emulsion blends. An extension of previous ANFO fumes production research that includes an emulsion blasting agent. (PDF, 2452 KB, 2001)

During the 20th century, the increased emphasis on worker health and safety and the advent of new mining equipment and methods led to many changes in mine face ventilation practices. This paper examines factors that had a significant influence on mine face ventilation design during the past century. (PDF, 843 KB, 2007-02)

Develops criteria for selecting the best machine locations for monitoring methane and gives recommendations for revising methane action levels for alternative sampling locations. (PDF, 268 KB, 2001-06)

NIOSH is using the experience of U.S. coal mines to determine the factors which influence intersection instability and provide guidelines for the safe excavation and support of intersections. By using the roof fall rate as the outcome variable, correlations between roof geology, intersection span, and roof support have been established. (PDF, 523 KB, 1998-08)

The Bureau of Mines has designed and put into operation a fail-safe control system for use in underground coal mines equipped with methane drainage pipelines. This control system can detect certain unsafe conditions and respond by automatically shutting off the flow of methane from the degasification borehole to the drainage pipeline. MSHA has inspected and tested this system and permitted its use in two mines. (PDF, 1027 KB, 1980)

The location and time of 2,007 microseismic emissions from a limestone mine in southwestern Pennsylvania were compared with the development of mine faces and the characteristics of the mine layout. Based on analyses of these results, the occurrence of roof failure zones appears to be associated with certain characteristics of the mine plan. (PDF, 617 KB, 2001)

This research seeks to provide design guidelines that enable mine planning engineers to correctly assess the safety risk of an adverse multiple seam mining interaction based on mine geometry factors, mine layout factors and site specific geologic conditions. (PDF, 425 KB, 2005)

The flow characteristics of both vane-axial and propeller fans were investigated and tested at four large-opening mines to assess the effects of fan location on recirculation and entrainment. Either fan type can be used for most auxiliary applications. However, this research has shown that the optimum placement and use criteria for propeller fans differ from those promulgated by the U.S. Bureau of Mines for vane-axial fans. (PDF, 310 KB, 2006-06)

This paper briefly describes six representative fatalities due to flyrock and lack of blast area security in coal and nonmetal mines. Several mines were visited to collect information relative to working practices aimed at mitigating blasting hazards. Salient information obtained through these visits is presented (PDF, 344 KB, 2003)

This report describes an investigation in which NIOSH used iron-doped diesel fuel to generate metal-bearing diesel particles and a subsequent analysis of the particles using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). (PDF, 1531 KB, 2007-04)

This paper looks at the feasibility of using noncontact laser-based vibration measurements to detect roof fall hazards with the ultimate vision of improving, expanding and automating procedures for mine roof inspection. (PDF, 369 KB, 2002)

A prototype detector using electromagnetic signals for finding trapped miners has previously been built and tested. The signals are generated from transmitters carried on the miner's belt and powered by his head lamp battery and the receiver is a human listener. This system has been found to be very efficient for the detection and location of trapped miners in most existing mines. However, for very deep mines, it is not adequate. This study investigates the use of a noncoherent detector based on the polarity-coincidence statistic. Two channel, polarity-coincidence and polarity-difference, statistics were analyzed. By using two polarity-difference statistics in addition to the polarity-coincidence statistic, it is shown that the decrease in performance, as well as the cost of hard limiting due to correlated inputs, can be made small. (PDF, 1612 KB, 1981-11)

Overhead electric power lines present a serious electrocution hazard to personnel in a variety of industries. This paper describes a practical low-cost concept to detect actual contact of mobile equipment with a high-voltage line and provide a warning.  (PDF, 122 KB, 2001)

A discussion of existing minerals education activities and tips for developing successful programs. (PDF, 222 KB, 2001-02)
                                                    

Airborne respirable dust surveys were conducted at six surface coal mines to investigate the effectiveness of dust control methods used on rotary rock drills and bulldozers. (PDF, 810 KB, 1999)

Operator cabs on a front-end loader and a rotary rock drill were retrofitted with ceiling mounted heating/AC units and air filtration systems. Subsequently, surface coal mine field studies were conducted to evaluate the respirable dust protection these retrofitted cab systems offer to the equipment operator. Results indicate that achieving positive interior cab pressurization with retrofitted cab filtration systems is a key element in their dust control effectiveness. (PDF, 930 KB, 2000-08)

This study presents a historic overview of the role of mobile roof support (MRS) technologies in improving stability and worker safety and presents the results of recent field evaluations of the MRS load rate monitoring device and other remote deformation-monitoring techniques. (PDF, 847 KB, 2001-08)

NIOSH researchers conducted a study to evaluate seat designs on low- and mid-coal-seam shuttle cars. The purpose was to gather additional data to support earlier findings that NIOSH seats, with unique viscoelastic foam padding, are improved designs for coal mine shuttle cars. This study included a larger sample of shuttle car operators than a prior investigation. Eight operators evaluated seat designs on the basis of perceived levels of vehicle jarring/jolting and discomfort. Researchers then compared the operators perceptions with field-measured levels of vehicle jarring/jolting. (PDF, 868 KB, 2006-11)

This paper describes the testing and reliability of results of a NIOSH developed Coal Dust Explosibility Meter (CDEM), a hand-held instrument that uses optical reflectance to measure the explosibility of a rock dust and coal dust mixture. (PDF, 240 KB, 2008)

This paper describes a quick and economic method which has been developed to estimate engine particulate emission levels. (PDF, 305 KB, 2008-03)
                              

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health method 7703 is a portable field procedure for the analysis of workplace air filter samples for hexavalent chromium (CrVI) content immediately after the samples are collected. The field method prescribes CrVI extraction from air filter samples with an ammonium sulfate/ammonium hydroxide extraction buffer using ultrasonic extraction (UE). Strong anion-exchange solid-phase extraction (SAE-SPE) is then used to separate CrVI from trivalent chromium and other interferences. Portable spectrophotometric measurement of CrVI is then conducted using the 1,5-diphenylcarbazide (DPC) method. However, it has been found that the ammonium extraction buffer does not adequately bring insoluble CrVI compounds into solution during the UE process. Thus, it was deemed necessary to modify the field method so that it would provide acceptable recoveries for insoluble CrVI compounds. To this end, a more alkaline extraction solution - sodium carbonate/sodium bicarbonate buffer - was investigated. The modified procedure using the highly alkaline extraction solution was demonstrated to be compatible with SAE-SPE cartridges when determining insoluble CrVI in air filter samples. It was found that the carbonate/bicarbonate buffer was equally effective for complete dissolution of both insoluble and soluble forms of CrVI. Furthermore, the modified procedure met desired performance criteria established for air sampling and analytical methods. (PDF, 102 KB, 2004)

This paper describes a modeling approach that can be used as a tool to evaluate potential roof failure and optimize the stability of room and pillar layouts. (PDF, 974 KB, 2008)

This paper describes a modeling approach that can be used as a tool to evaluate potential roof failure and optimize the stability of room and pillar layouts. (PDF, 1109 KB, 2008-06)

This paper reports on an extensive series of short-encapsulation pull tests that were conducted in the NIOSH Mine Safety Research Laboratory and operating mines in WV and PA. (PDF, 334 KB, 2003)

Describes a small-scale field study to identify key factors that may contribute to the migration of CO through the ground. (PDF, 651 KB, 2005)
                             

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of using a continuous passive lumbar motion system (CPLMS) in reducing low back discomfort among operators of heavy earthmoving equipment. Results indicate that the use of a CPLMS can effectively reduce the low back discomfort experienced by operators of heavy construction equipment. (PDF, 612 KB, 2005)

A new postdisaster communication and location system using through-the-earth electromagnetic wave propagation was tested at the Bureau of Mines Lake Lynn Experimental Mine. This describes the testing process and findings. (PDF, 2219 KB, 1983-12)

To measure the loading behavior of friction bolts, NIOSH researchers installed strain gauges on the interior of friction bolts and developed a battery-powered miniature data acquisition system (MIDAS) that fits inside the hollow portion of the friction bolt. (PDF, 594 KB, 2003-08)

Instrumented cable bolts developed at the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health were used in conjunction with existing ground control to monitor rock mass loads at various field sites. (PDF, 960 KB, 2000)

The results of field tests conducted by the Bureau of Mines on elastic bolt behavior showed that the anchorage length of grouted bolts installed in shale was slightly longer than the anchorage length determined in laboratory tests conducted in concrete blocks. (PDF, 895 KB, 1991)

The Roof Fall Risk Index helps the underground stone mine operator to assess defects the mine strata and rate the relative roof fall risk these defects pose. This paper examines how the defect information is collected using two field verification sites and proposes methods to analyze the RFRI data. (PDF, 665 KB, 2006)

This paper summarizes the results obtained from a field-scale test and shows that mapping voids within a coal pile is possible. (PDF, 822 KB, 2002-07)
                        

This final report was prepared by the Technical Study Panel on the Utilization of Belt Air and the Composition and Fire Retardant Properties of Belt Materials in Underground Coal Mining. It provides a review and recommendations concerning the utilization of belt air and the composition and fire retardant properties of belt materials in underground coal mining. (PDF, 1427 KB, 2007-12)

This report details the results of a series of large-scale experiments where small coal fires were used to ignite the conveyor belt at air velocities ranging from 0.76 to 6.1 M/s. Temperature, CO, and smoke levels were continuously measured to determine alarm time and level as the fire intensity progressed through the stages of smoldering coal, flaming coal, and flaming coal plus flaming belt. Analysis of the data leads to certain conditions of air velocity and sensor alarm levels that are required for early detection of conveyor belt entry fires. (PDF, 1319 KB, 1991)

The Code of Federal Regulations Title 30, Parts 56, 57, 75, and 77 require that detonators and explosives be separated by four inches of hardwood or equivalents when transported together in mines. The research reported here is an attempt to quantify the fire protection offered by four inches of red oak and other materials. (PDF, 1400 KB, 1997)

This report deals with the preparedness of miners to respond to underground fires. It is intended to aid the mining industry in understanding the various roles of emergency responders and the training techniques used to increase their skill levels. The report also presents a technology overview to assist in effective response to mine fires. (PDF, 2438 KB, 2005)

This report deals with the preparedness of miners to respond to underground mine fires. It is intended to aid the mining industry in understanding the various roles of emergency responders and the training techniques used to increase their skill levels. The report also presents a technology overview to assist in effective response to mine fires. (PDF, KB, 2006)

Two mine fire experiments were conducted in the NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratorys Safety Research Coal Mine that demonstrated that smoke from diesel-fuel fires of 500- and 660-kW heat-release rates in a return airway can develop, without causing a complete airflow reversal, into a roof layer that can migrate upwind, forming a counterflow to the primary airflow in a crosscut. Subsequently, smoke can penetrate into an intake airway and create a hazardous atmosphere in the intake airway upwind from the fire. (PDF, 1589 KB, 2006-06)

In this NIOSH study to optimize standing roof support design, ground response curves were developed for longwall tailgate conditions from numerical models of Pittsburgh Coal Seam geology. (PDF, 603 KB, 2008)

Researchers have conducted a large number of experiments on cable bolts to determine their load characteristics for different grout types, grout ratios, and cable configurations (Garford bulb, buttons, birdcage, nut cage, etc.) (PDF, 686 KB, 2002-04)

Two types of flammability limits have been measured for various dusts in the Fike 1-m3 (1000-L) chamber and in the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL) 20-L chamber. (PDF, 898 KB, 2000-05)

An experimental program was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of some current methods for predicting the flammability of gas mixtures containing hydrogen and flammable or nonflammable volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air. (PDF, 314 KB, 2000-05)

This paper reports the results of flammability studies for methane, propane, hydrogen, and deuterium gases in air conducted by the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. (PDF, 537 KB, 2000-05)

Describes the flammability tests conducted on 15 to 20 different noise abatement materials of various chemical compositions and thickness. (PDF, 207 KB, 2003)

A compilation of the primary causes of flyrock in surface mining blasting operations and reasons a safe blast area was not secured. (PDF, 30 KB, 2001-02)

Seven degasification wells have been completed in the Pittsburgh coalbed at the New Emerald Mine near Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. The Bureau of Mines performed stimulation treatments on five of the wells to show that this is a feasible and economical means of degasifying part of a coalbed. On the day following stimulation, gas production ranged from a few hundred cubic feet per day to more than 100,000 cu ft/day. (PDF, 478 KB, 1978)

The first step to emergency preparedness is defining and analyzing hazards. Although all hazards should be addressed, resource limitations usually do not allow this to happen all at once. (PDF, 755 KB, 1999-10)

The first step to emergency preparedness and maintaining a safe workplace is defining and analyzing hazards. (PDF, 132 KB, 2003-07)
                                           

This chapter provides guidelines for determining the gas content of coalbeds, estimating the gas-in-place, and predicting gas flow and emissions before and during coal mining operations. The techniques are discussed briefly in the following sections. However, detailed information on the techniques is provided in the cited references. (PDF, 4851 KB, 2006)

Because of the high number of accidental methane gas ignitions in metal and nonmetal mines, the Bureau of Mines searched for a simple guideline that would allow mine personnel to evaluate the methane hazard in a given mine. Air samples were collected by the Bureau in 53 metal and nonmetal mines and analyzed for trace evidence of methane gas. There was no consistent correlation between commodity mined and methane concentration, nor was there a correlation between mine depth and methane concentration. Neither of these factors can be considered a guideline for predicting methane hazards. (PDF, 442 KB, 1979)

Monitoring technology and techniques can provide a means to warn of hazardous roof fall conditions. Measuring roof deflection is the most common method of detecting roof instabilities. (PDF, 195 KB, 2005)

In the past few decades, a considerable amount of effort was directed at accurately determining the coal/pillar strength to use for safely designing coal mines. This paper addresses the deficit of pillar loading research by exploring the accuracy of the empirical abutment load calculations using insight provided by an elastic overburden model, a laminated overburden model and field obserbvations. (PDF, 588 KB, 2000)

The Bureau of Mines tangentially impacted potential coal-cutter bit shank materials against sandstone to investigate the potential of the materials to ignite natural gas by a friction-generated hot streak. (PDF, 4056 KB, 1992)

This paper presents a statistical analysis of frictional ignitions in the U.S. from 1983 to 2005. Various factors were considered, including mining machine type, state, basin, coalbed, coalbed production, mining method, production, productivity, mine type, and total emissions. (PDF, 230 KB, 2007)

This paper discusses elements of a stray gas investigation and the analyses necessary to identify the source of a stray gas. (PDF, 347 KB, 2004)
                           

Full-scale testing and results are described for an automated system that continuously monitors the accumulation of coal dust in mine entries. (PDF, 234 KB, 1998-05)

The Bureau of Mines has developed a practical methodology for determining occluded gas contents of domal rock salt samples. The method, which is portable and fieldworthy, provides results in 5 min or less. Results can be used to identify gas-enriched zones, and thus may aid mine operators in production planning or ventilation design. The test method is based on the relationship between gas content and the acoustic response of salt samples as they are dissolved in water. (PDF, 1250 KB, 1987)

The Bureau of Mines conducted drilling studies in the Pocahontas No. 3, the Pittsburgh, and a western coalbed to establish the gas migration characteristics for each. Caving in drill holes prevented pressure measurements in the western coalbed. The Pittsburgh coalbed contained intersecting clay veins which formed gas pressure cells. Although these geological features hamper mining, they can be used to control the flow of methane into a mine working. Methane control techniques are proposed for the Pittsburgh and Pocahontas No. 3 coalbeds.  (PDF, 1000 KB, 1969)

Methane and other hydrocarbon gases, byproducts of coalification, are emitted from coal at widely varying rates and often present ventilation problems during mining. The air in some coal mines apparently contains no methane. To determine if coals from mines which had no history of detectable gas emission contained adsorbed methane, samples of coal at the shaft bottom and at an active face were obtained and placed in sealed metal cylinders. The atmosphere around the coal was sampled and analyzed by gas chromatography. Methane, ethane, ethylene, propane, propylene, and butane were found to have been desorbed from these coals. Hydrogen and helium were also detected. An estimate of the amount of residual gas per ton of coal indicated that coal samples from the active face generally contained more adsorbed gas than coal samples obtained from the shaft bottom. (PDF, 504 KB, 1973)

Vacutainers are employed by the Bureau of Mines and the Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration for sampling mine air and other atmospheres containing fixed gases, low-molecular-weight hydrocarbons, and products of combustion. Tests were conducted to study shelf life of evacuated samplers prior to sampling and also to check the stability of sampled gases prior to analysis. An unexplained phenomenon, slow accumulation of carbon monoxide in evacuated samplers, occurred after a few weeks of storage; levels were low but increased with time and could pose a problem for critical applications. Storage at low temperature was found to be effective in halting CO release. (PDF, 343 KB, 1978)

Reports on a USBM study of three gel sealant systems used to minimize air ingress to areas in the mine that can undergo self-heatings and specifically mines that sustain both floor heave and self-heatings. (PDF, 2950 KB, 1995)

Component failure in the electrical control circuits of mining machines account for a large percentage of the total downtime of the machine. This report details U.S. Bureau of Mines development of a generic procedure for synthesizing diagnostic systems for electrical-control-circuit failures in mining machinery. (PDF, 3385 KB, 1993)

The main premise of this paper is that often the best opportunities to reduce these rates are not revealed by retrospective analysis of injury and illness data. Instead, a proactive approach is needed that accounts for risks to specific hazards that can be abated by engineering or behavioral interventions. (PDF, 26 KB, 1998)

A geologic study of Mines 32 and 33 in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, was conducted as part of a methane control research program. The study shows that methane emission in these mines is more closely related to roof falls and emission from strata above the Lower Kittanning coalbed than to any other single factor. (PDF, 1919 KB, 1973)

A Bureau of Mines geologic study of Pennsylvanian and Permian coalbeds in southwestern Pennsylania was undertaken to determine the effects of coalbed geology and petrology on in situ coalbed gas contents. A total of 88 samples from 24 coalbeds were collected for direct-method testing to determine gas content. The samples were also analyzed for petrographic composition, chemical composition, and vitrinite reflectance values. Corehole information was used to generate isopach maps and geologic cross sections useful in data interpretation. (PDF, 1423 KB, 1988)

This report describes the geologic origin, association, and potential danger from the most common hazards. Discussions of weak rock include drawrock, rider coals, head coal, stackrock, and stream valley effects. (PDF, 3940 KB, 2003-10)

A series of geological surveys were completed in six coal mines. The aim of these surveys was to study the overall geology of the coalbed, and to use the resulting data to evaluate the influence of the geological characteristcs of the coalbed on safe and efficient coal extraction. This report explains the advantages of geologic maps and fence diagrams in coal mining and how the knowledge gained from such geologic investigations of mines can help control many underground problems. (PDF, 1159 KB, 1975)

This Bureau of Mines study reviews the geological factors that affect methane in the Beckley coalbed in southern West Virginia, including overburden, coalbed structure, type and changes in lithology above and below the Beckley coalbed, and presence of fractures in the coal and rock adjacent to the Beckley.  (PDF, 2292 KB, 1976)

Two degasification test boreholes were drilled to depths of 1,238 and 1,212 feet on Bureau of Mines property at Bruceton, Pennsylvania, as part of the Bureau of Mines long-range coal degasification program. The holes provided detailed geologic information and geologic sections, which were correlated with regional stratigraphic cross sections prepared by the Pennsylvania geological survey.  (PDF, 1023 KB, 1977)

The Upper Freeport coalbed was studied in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. This coalbed lies about 650 feet below the Pittsburgh coalbed and contains the largest remaining reserves of any coalbed in the county. Coal and overburden isopachs, structure and joint pattern maps, and a fence diagram were prepared using data from gas and oil exploration logs and coal outcrops. These maps will aid in determining the need and/or feasibility of degasifying the Upper Freeport coalbed in the study area. Much of the coalbed in this area is under 600 to 1,400 feet of overburden, where the gas content is estimated to be between 140 and 300 cu ft/ton of coal, for a total of 190 to 400 billion cubic feet of methane in this coalbed in Fayette County. (PDF, 1337 KB, 1977)

The Bureau of Mines established geologic factors affecting the mining of the Lower Kittanning coalbed to aid in coalbed minability studies and examined the occurrence of "wants" (places where coal is missing) and types of unstable roof rock strata. Trends established from mapping, including prediction of areas of high methane emissions, were extrapolated to unmined areas.  (PDF, 1759 KB, 1979)

A geologic study of the Mary Lee Group of coalbeds in the Black Earrior Coal Basin was undertaken to examine coal stratigraphy and determine regional trends and extent of the coalbeds. The area investigated encompasses 835 square miles in Jefferson, Walker, and Tuscaloosa Counties, Alabama. More than 700 core logs were used to construct a structure map, coal, interval, and overburden isopachs, and cross sections. (PDF, 2192 KB, 1976)

Geology is an integral part of roof control, mine design, and production operations. Yet, the importance of geology, coal/rock as an engineering construction material and its properties and behavior within the planned mine areas, in overall mine production operations has not been fully appreciated. Understanding the nature of roof geology could explain why roof control plans sometimes fail. (PDF, 708 KB, 2001-12)

Bowie Resources maintains one of the most pro-active ground control programs in the U.S. mining industry today. Its guiding philosophy is that everyone in the organization, from the miners at the face all the way through the top management, are involved in ground control. This paper will describe the program in detail, discussing the involvement of roof bolters, section foremen, surveyors, technical staff, and production managers. It will also show how the program has contributed to the mine planning process. (PDF, 457 KB, 2006)

This study covers 25 underground mines that were active in the Upper and Lower Freeport and Lower Kittanning coalbeds in 1976. The coal ranges from low to medium volatile in rank. Seven mines emit more than 100,000 cfd of methane gas; those mines are the deepest and largest producers. The methane gas content of three core samples of the Lower Kittanning coalbed was estimated by the direct method. Results suggest that methane control problems will be encountered in the future as deeper coal is mined. (PDF, 3334 KB, 1979)

When the Washington National Cathedral showed signs of continuing differential settlement in the early 1990's, the US Bureau of Mines was asked for assistance in monitoring the movements of the massive towers and walls. The paper discusses the major findings of the study, implications for the future of the Cathedral, and conclusions regarding the use of geotechnical monitoring at major national monuments. (PDF, 286 KB, 2001-07)

Because backfill has occasionally collapsed into an active working area, posing a hazard to miners, engineers installed instruments in a cemented, backfilled, stope-ramp intersection at Hecla's Lucky Friday Mine to measure stress and strain changes in the backfill and reinforcing members during undercut mining. Based on this study, use of trusses was discontinued, and an alternative support system of wood beams and posts was installed. The purpose was to measure stress and strain changes in the backfill and reinforcing members during undercut mining. (PDF, 5487 KB, 2001-07)

Highly stressed rock in stopes continues to be a primary safety risk for miners in underground mines because this condition can result in failures of ground that lead to both injuries and death. Personnel from the Spokane Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health studied two methods for identifying stress in rock. (PDF, 5799 KB, 2004-03)

Sudden, violent failures of rock around mine openings influence access, ventilation, and safety in both hard-rock and coal mines. To develop predictive tools for assessing the potential for violent failure, the authors initiated a comprehensive study using multiple linear regression and numerical modeling analyses of geological and mining conditions at 25 sites. (PDF, 848 KB, 1997)

This paper discusses the training needs of the younger generation of inexperienced workers who have just entered or are soon to enter the mines. Currently, many trainers are of the so-called Baby Boom generation. Can these different age groups learn to communicate across the generation gap? (PDF, 492 KB, 2002-09)

This material was presented at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's (NIOSH) open-industry briefing held during the 2004 Northwest Mining Association conference in Spokane, WA. It discusses results of recently completed and on-going mine safety- and health-related research conducted at NIOSH's Spokane and Pittsburgh Research Laboratories on the human side of mining - the miner. It discusses the zero-injury concept and how that goal can be achieved. (PDF, 3158 KB, 2006)

This paper explores the relationships between deep-seated and shallow in situ stresses in several of the world´s coalfields, using a data base of more than 350 stress measurements from underground coal mines. (PDF, 452 KB, 2008)

Describes a method for assessing equipment jolting using a combination of "black boxes" called Shox Boxes and an onboard GPS system. The Shox Box system reviews data in real time, onboard the vehicles, 24 hrs a day, and sends pertinent information via radio to a central database. (PDF, 127 KB, 2004)

Highwall stability remains a major concern during highwall mining. Geologic structure (hillseams) and pillar stability are the two major factors affecting highwall stability. (PDF, 199 KB, 2005)

This paper discusses the two most significant highwall ground control hazards; rock falls from the highwall and equipment entrapment underground. (PDF, 508 KB, 2007-09)

Falls of ground continue to be one of the most serious causes of injury to U.S. miners. This goal of this chapter is to provide guidance to safety professionals tasked with preventing ground fall injuries. This chapter combines an analysis of the Mine Safety and Health Administration's (MSHA) accident and injury data with a survey of industry "best practices" to safeguard miners from ground falls.  (PDF, 1641 KB, 2001)

Describes evaluation of a new method using ground penetrating radar (GPR) mounted on a mining machine to measure coal rib thickness during highwall mining. (PDF, 1855 KB, 1998-10)

Reports on the application of near infrared sensor technology for the automatic guidance of a continuous haulage system (PDF, 982 KB, 1996)
                                

The guidelines in this report are to be used as a tool to identify areas or conditions that could impact the long-term stability of an underground fluid retention system and to give direction in addressing these situations. (PDF, 508 KB, 2008-06)

This report is intended to help mine safety trainers better prepare to teach the influx of new underground coal miners who are entering the industry by identifying two different approaches to instruction and discussing the ways they may affect how well prepared new hires are to deal with a dynamic and hazardous workplace. (PDF, 291 KB, 2008-01)

In this report, several practical guidelines are recommended for controlling longwall coalbed methane. All predictions are based on determinations made for the Pittsburgh Coalbed in southwestern Pennsylvania. (PDF, 3861 KB, 2008-03)

This handbook describes effective methods for the control of mineral dusts in mines and tunnels. It assumes the reader is familiar with mining. The first chapter deals solely with dust control methods, regardless of the application. It is a brief tutorial on mining dust control and will be of help to the reader whose dust control problem does not conveniently fit any of the mining equipment niches described in later chapters. (PDF, 4167 KB, 2003-06)

This handbook describes effective methods for the control of methane gas in mines and tunnels. It assumes the reader is familiar with mining. The first chapter covers facts about methane important to mine safety, such as the explosibility of gas mixtures. The second chapter covers methane sampling, which is crucial because many methane explosions have been attributed to sampling deficiencies. Subsequent chapters describe methane control methods for different kinds of mines and mining equipment, primarily for U.S. coal mines. (PDF, 4495 KB, 2006-06)

This truck haulage dust study showed that primarily wind, distance, and road treatment conditions notably affected the dust concentrations at locations next to, 50 ft from, and 100 ft away from the unpaved haulage road. (PDF, 549 KB, 2007-10)

Dump site injuries occur in all major mineral industries. Working in elevated areas near an edge is a common hazard for operators of off-highway mobile mining equipment. In this Information Circular (IC), serious injuries involving haulage trucks working at dump sites are examined for the period 1988 to 1997. (PDF, 381 KB, 2001-03)

This is a Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance Report on a poisoning incident where CO migrated from nearby blasting activities into a new sewer system being constructed. (PDF, 132 KB, 1997-10)

Many miners are involved in tasks at the mine site that are similar to those subtasks performed in general construction, maintenance and repair (CMR) type work activities. The degraded image concept is used, it was originally developed by the military and used for target detection training, describes scenes where the target is partially hidden by cloud cover, dust, rain, natural barriers, buildings, or other obstructions that can camouflage or confuse the target. (PDF, 652 KB, 1999-10)

A health and safety bulletin about the danger of hearing loss in the mining industry and measures that can be taken to protect against it. (PDF, 1855 KB, 1998-10)

Thsi paper provides an overview of the NIOSH hearing loss prevention program being conducted at NIOSH PRL. (PDF, 138 KB, 2005)
                                             

The focus of this research was to determine the noise exposures of heavy construction equipment operators while documenting the workers' tasks, (i.e. hauling, moving, and/or pushing construction material). The types of construction equipment studied included asphalt pavers, backhoes, bulldozers, compaction equipment, excavators, haul trucks, telehandlers, and wheeled loaders. (PDF, 1552 KB, 2007-07)

The focus of this research was to determine the noise exposures of heavy construction equipment operators while documenting the workers´ tasks, (i.e. hauling, moving, and/or pushing construction material). (PDF, 65 KB, 2005)

Researchers at the NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratory are developing an overhead electric power line-contact alarm for mobile equipment. This work will determine whether an alarm based on current measurement can be reliable, simple to retrofit, relatively inexpensive, and, if feasible, promote its use in the workplace. (PDF, 82 KB, 2002-04)

This study of the Chestnut Ridge Anticline found that high levels of horizontal stress are to be expected in this very stiff rock formation and that local geologic and topographic structures are capable of altering the magnitude and possibly the orientation of the horizontal stress field. (PDF, 358 KB, 2002-11)

Proper measurement of dust particle concentration is a critical step toward the elimination of dust-related occupational disease. This paper examines the development of dust sampling methods in U.S. coal mines, with emphasis on the benefits of personal sampling and on recent developments that permit real- time assessment of dust exposure. (PDF, 460 KB, 2002)

This Bureau of Mines publication presents investigators' reports of all major coal mine explosion disasters that occurred in the United States from 1959 through November 1981, along with a brief analysis of common factors in these disasters. The report reviews the federal mine health and safety acts of 1969 and 1977, and discusses how implementation of these acts has reduced the number of both fatalities and disasters. Current Bureau health and safety research is summarized, and an appendix lists most of the ignitions and explosions in the period of record. (PDF, 4171 KB, 1983)

Horizontal stresses are caused by global plate-tectonic forces. During 1995 alone they were largely responsible for the closing of two longwall mines in the U.S. This paper presents six case histories of mines that encountered roof falls or difficult ground conditions at the headgate caused by horizontal-stress concentrations. (PDF, 1365 KB, 1998-01)

This Bureau of Mines report investigates the horizontal trajectory of boreholes drilled in coalbeds using the rotary drilling technique. Test holes drilled in coalbeds showed that the path of a borehole in the horizontal plane depends on drilling assembly configuration, drill bit rotation, and coalbed geologic features. (PDF, 555 KB, 1988)

This study predicts the level of smoke that miners might meet while trying to escape a coal minefire and describes how smoke would impede their safe escape. (PDF, 337 KB, 1992)

This paper presents a rationale for considering human stress as a significant factor in the management of emergencies It discusses the concept of stress, Critical Incident Stress in emergency responders, and introduces the Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) process. It offers some ideas to the mining industry in general, mine rescue trainers. and more universally, to those responsible for developing emergency management plans.  (PDF, 1356 KB, 1998)

In recent years the issue of human stress response in emergency workers has begun to receive attention. This paper presents a rationale for considering human stress as a significant factor in the management of emergencies. It discusses the concept of stress, Critical Incident Stress in emergency responders, and introduces the Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) process. It is suggested that, in a disaster, the CISD process can improve the effectiveness of response teams on site, their turnaround time on site, and post disaster time off the job. This paper offers some ideas to the mining industry in general, mine rescue trainers, and more universally, to those responsible for developing emergency management plans.  (PDF, 3333 KB, 1995)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines has developed an intrinsically safe carbon monoxide (CO) monitoring system for mines by coupling a fiber-optic data telemetry system with a prototype electrochemical CO monitor. (PDF, 1474 KB, 1992)

This work identified the most important variables contributing to coal bumps. These are (1) mechanical properties of strata, including local yield characteristics of a mine roof and floor, (2) gate pillar factors of safety, (3) roof beam thickness, joint spacing, and stiffness characteristics, which influence released energy, (4) stress gradients associated with the approach of mining to areas of higher stress concentrations, and (5) the mining method. By combining the strength of both analytical and statistical methods, new capabilities were developed for predicting coal bump potential and for building confidence intervals on expected damage. (PDF, 68 KB, 1999)

A new generation of hydraulic mine support prestressing devices has been developed. This paper examines the performance capabilities of these inflatable prestressing units and the impact they have on the performance of various support systems, including an evaluation of the overall stiffness of the support system and the load control during yielding of the prestressing unit. (PDF, 730 KB, 2004)

Coal degasification boreholes drilled from the surface have been successfully hydraulically stimulated to increase the flow of gas from the coal. This Bureau of Mines report describes the hydraulic stimulation procedure for a coalbed, the equipment required, and design criteria for the treatment. Three examples of stimulation treatment show from fivefold to twentyfold increases in gas production. Two sites where the coal was hydraulically stimulated and exposed by subsequent mining show no adverse effect on mining operations through the treated zones. (PDF, 802 KB, 1975)

The Bureau of Mines evaluated the hydraulic stimulation of a gob- degasification borehole to determine if this procedure would aid in degasifying a longwall panel. The stimulated borehole did not degasify the longwall panel as expected either before or after mining of the panel started. It reduced the underground methane emission only 11 pct, considerably less than the reductions effected by two unstimulated boreholes in the same panel. (PDF, 951 KB, 1977)

This is the Instructor's Copy of the document. This document contains most of the materials needed to use the exercises on proper self-contained self-rescuer usage. (PDF, 3660 KB, 1999-10)

This paper describes research designed to develop guidelines and test procedures for identifying all noise sources that are major contributors to the underground noise exposure of longwall coal mining system workers. (PDF, 501 KB, 2007)

NIOSH conducted wet/dry immersion cycling of clay-rich rocks. The wet/dry immersion cycling test used provides an accurate, quick and inexpensive method for estimating the moisture sensitivity of mudrocks. With this information mine operators can begin to anticipate hazardous ground and prepare appropriate roof support. (PDF, 850 KB, 2006)

A number of ignition incidents involving mining and farm equipment have illustrated the surprising danger of drilling, cutting, or otherwise penetrating sealed compartments or frames that are filled with metal scrap for ballast. (PDF, 110 KB, 2001-07)

A study of the ignition of non-fire-resistant hydraulic fluid sprays was conducted by NIOSH. Both an open flame and a hot steel surface were used as the external heat sources. (PDF, 188 KB, 2006)

Optical technologies have progressed rapidly in the past 15 years. NIOSH is conducting a study to help provide a scientific basis for developing appropriate safety guidelines for optical equipment in underground coal mines. (PDF, 790 KB, 2000)

New types of industrial instruments use fiber-coupled laser energy to power remote sensors. The U.S. Bureau of Mines began an investigation of laser-powered fiber-optic instruments in explosive atmospheres in support of the standard-making process. (PDF, 388 KB, 1996)

The Bureau of Mines has recorded a number of different background dust sources that significantly contaminate the air breathed by bag machine operators. To keep bag operator exposure within acceptable dust levels established by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, the significance of these background sources must be realized, and the sources must be identified and controlled. (HTML, KB, 1986)

Previous research on continuous mining operations has shown that significant interactions exist between dust-control parameter application and the resulting respirable dust levels. However, simply increasing the level of the controls does not guarantee a reduction in respirable dust levels. Full-scale laboratory tests are being conducted to provide information to longwall operators that would assist them in selecting control parameters to reduce dust levels for mine-specific conditions. (PDF, 752 KB, 2002-02)

This paper presents the results of a NIOSH parametric study that quantifies the impact of various deformable materials in block stopping construction under transverse load conditions. (PDF, 482 KB, 2008)

NIOSH researchers have demonstrated that mine-wide ventilation in large-opening stone mines can be improved by using low-pressure, high-volume propeller fans and constructing stoppings in key locations to direct and control airflow. In light of these findings, a comparative study was conducted to determine if a portable diesel-powered propeller fan could perform more efficiently for dust dilution and transport than an axial vane fan for localized ventilation. Results showed an improvement with the propeller fan to dilute both the respirable dust and the respirable silica dust around the dump/crusher facility. (PDF, 752 KB, 2006-06)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines analyzed the design of underground mining equipment with respect to ease of maintenance and maintainer safety. Maintainability design recommendations have been prepared and published including basic maintainability engineering information for equipment designers and a buyers' guide to assist purchasers of mining machinery. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

Research was conducted to investigate how ventilation of a mining face is affected when scrubber flow is greater or less than intake flow. Tests were conducted in a full-scale surface test gallery built to simulate a mining entry with a continuous mining machine at the face. Increasing scrubber flow resulted in lower methane levels even when scrubber flow was much greater than intake flow. (PDF, 846 KB, 1997)

Research evaluating the autoclave meltout process to recover TNT from MK-9 depth bombs. (PDF, 236 KB, 1996)
                                                                

Since 1990 and the publication of the Ergonomics Program Management Guidelines for Meatpacking Plants by the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration, numerous reports of companies implementing ergonomics program have been published. In 2000, NIOSH initiated a long-term project to demonstrate the implementation of an ergonomics process designed to identify and reduce exposures to ergonomic risk factors found in mining. This paper discusses how a large, surface coal mine implemented an ergonomics program and the lessons learned while doing so. (PDF, 1848 KB, 2007-02)

Achieving substantial reductions in the exposure of underground miners to diesel particulate matter in a number of metal and nonmetal mines in the United States depends on the ability of the industry to widely implement advanced diesel emissions control technologies, primarily diesel particulate filter (DPF) systems. However, a number of relatively unique technical and operational challenges are limiting industry-wide implementation of this technology. This paper provides detailed analysis of some of those challenges and short overviews of several projects launched by the NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratory in an attempt to provide the underground mining industry with more adequate DPF systems. (PDF, 835 KB, 2006)

This report describes the design and implementation of UHF radio and closed-circuit television systems in the Black River room and pillar limestone mine near Butler, Pendleton County, Kentucky. (PDF, 5437 KB, 1981)

A unique method to collect and measure respirable coal mine dust using the tapered element oscillating microbalance has demonstrated potential use as an effective engineering tool to help dust control. (PDF, 166 KB, 2004-12)

This article describes the results from analysis of open-face samples which suggest that the new formulations for PDM filters have fully addressed the analytical obstacles that existed with the original filter design. (PDF, 340 KB, 2008-05)

Describes research at a Pittsburgh Coalbed longwall mine to evaluate and optimize bleeder ventilation and gob gas venthole longwall methane control systems. (PDF, 427 KB, 2000)

NIOSH researchers have developed a model to describe airborne respirable dust (ARD) generation on surface coal mine drills. (PDF, 284 KB, 2008-09)
                            

A recent report evaluating silica exposure levels in the metal/nonmetal mining industry noted that bag packaging and loading are some of the occupations at the greatest risk. In addition to dust problems, the bag-stacking process is labor intensive, making lost-time injuries common due to back fatigue and strains. (PDF, 414 KB, 2000-04)

In this Bureau of Mines investigation, production was monitored for 1 year at over 30 coalbed gas-drainage boreholes located in Alabama, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Results indicate that the quality of data gathered from such wells can be improved greatly if potential problems are anticipated and prevented in the early stages of well production.  (PDF, 639 KB, 1978)

Communications with moving tracked vehicles in a rail haulage mine pose a difficult problem. These communications take place from dispatcher to vehicles or from vehicle to vehicle via the trolley line, which is a very poor communications line. As a result, deadspots and high-signal areas can occur anywhere along the line, or signal can decrease simply as a function of distance. An analysis is made of the trolley line as a communications line, and methods of improving its characteristics are discussed. Data from in-mine experiments are presented, showing actual improvements in communications. Recent Bureau developments in new hardware are also discussed. (PDF, 2019 KB, 1978-10)

Nearly one-third of the equipment operators in underground coal mines experience adverse levels of exposure to whole-body vibration, (WBV). With input from underground shuttle-car operators, this study addressed a component of WBV that is germane to underground mining - high-energy impacts or shocks. (PDF, 693 KB, 1999-12)

This U.S. Bureau of Mines report identifies the types of serious accidents that occur most frequently at small underground coal mines and describes the strategies that could help prevent them. These strategies include improvements in the design of equipment, work procedures, work schedules, safety programs, and emergency response plans, and techniques for diagnosing potential hazards associated with new technologies and work procedures. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

NIOSH conducted a strategic planning effort to identify those areas in mining with the greatest research needs. In response, the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL) has implemented a multi-faceted research program to improve silica dust control for these problematic commodities and occupations. A review of silica compliance trends, PRL silica research programs, and recent control technology developments are provided here. (PDF, 1703 KB, 2002-02)

During the last few years, PRL researchers have conducted research related to the following goals: improving protection provided by enclosed cabs on mobile surface mining equipment, reducing dust generation from surface drills, reducing dust levels in iron ore operations, and developing a new method to clean dust from workers' soiled clothes. A description of each of these controls and subsequent dust reductions quantified through site surveys is provided. (PDF, 924 KB, 2007)

This paper describes an intelligent drilling system that can complement scoping and core analysis to provide a more complete picture of roof strata and is capable of seeing features or conditions that are not always obvious in more traditional methods. (PDF, 714 KB, 2007)

The objective of the research was to cost-effectively increase the air cleaning volume and improve dust capture efficiency of an off-the-shelf dust collector with a larger motor and blower. (PDF, 522 KB, 2008)

The new MSHA diesel rules have stone mine operators looking hard at possible upgrades to their ventilation systems. NIOSH has several stone mine ventilation projects underway, but in the meantime a good information resource is the work done by the U.S. Bureau of Mines in the 70's and 80's on ventilation for oil shale mines. (HTML, KB, 2002-04)

Cable bolts are gaining increased popularity in U.S. coal mines. Factors involved with this are discussed including the switch to resin anchorage. (PDF, 1794 KB, 1998-03)

An evaluation of multiple mine fire sensor types for nuisance alarm discrimination. The response of multiple fire sensor types to three small coal fires and three small conveyor belt fires in the presence of diesel emissions was evaluated. (PDF, 322 KB, 2002)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines conducted an overcore stress measurement on the 5300 level of the Lucky Friday Mine, Mullan, ID, to investigate the stress regime around an experimental stope in a rock-burst-prone mine. The result indicated a stress field with unexpected magnitude and orientation. (PDF, 302 KB, 1995)

U.S. Bureau of Mines researchers reviewed an in situ stress estimate developed from measurements of overcore strain taken at test sites on the 7300 and 7500 levels of the Star Mine near Mullan, ID. Although the field measurements of overcoring strain were found to be useful, significant deficiencies were found in the stress estimation procedure. (PDF, 355 KB, 1995)

Researchers at the U.S. Bureau of Mines collected and analyzed overcore measurements and other indicators of in situ stress characteristics at the Lucky Friday Mine, Mullan, ID. An analysis of these data revealed that significant local variations in in situ stress are present in this mine and that these variations existed prior to mining. High stresses were found to be associated with the most competent strata and a locked section of a fault. (PDF, 1594 KB, 1995)

Using hollow inclusion stress cells, researchers obtained two in situ stress measurements from the face of two footwall lateral drifts at the Stillwater Mine near Nye, MT. (PDF, 457 KB, 2003)

In situ stresses are important input data for the design of safe, stable stope layouts and extraction sequences. In situ stresses were measured at the Homestake Mine, Lead, SD, using overcoring on hollow inclusion cells and borehole deformation gauges. (PDF, 2480 KB, 1993)

A full-scale test of a cable bolted cribless tailgate was conducted on an eastern United States longwall. Cable bolts proved more than adequate to provide a stable cribless tailgate. (PDF, 1794 KB, 1998-03)

This study examines the accuracy of area sampling for measuring the dust exposure of mining machine operators at coal mine working faces. The work was prompted by the development of a prospective new type of dust sampling instrument called the machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor (MMC-RDM). (PDF, 799 KB, 2002-02)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has investigated engineering noise controls to reduce sound levels in cabs on air-rotary drill rigs. A recent investigation revealed that some drillers are exposed to A-weighted sound levels exceeding 85 dB even though a cab is used. NIOSH studied the in-cab sound levels of one such rig. Next, field tests were performed in a production environment to evaluate noise controls to reduce in-cab sound levels. (PDF, 3828 KB, 2007-05)

A detailed report on independent contractor accidents in the coal mining industry covering 1985 through 1994. (PDF, 393 KB, 1996-08)
                                          

An assessment of independent contractor accidents at metal/nonmetal mines in the U.S. from 1985 through 1994. (PDF, 437 KB, 1996-07)
                                          

Employment and accident trends of independent contractors working at coal and noncoal mines in the United States are reported. (PDF, 254 KB, 1996)
                         

The effect of wind speed upon aerosol penetration into an idealized enclosure was studied. (PDF, 474 KB, 1999-02)
                                                             

Recent advances in technology have enabled the development of a small, portable, data-logging particle monitor modified from commercial smoke alarm technology that can meet the needs of surveys in the developing world at reasonable cost. There is significant potential for this monitor to facilitate the evaluation of interventions (improved fuels, stoves, and ventilation) on indoor air pollution levels. (PDF, 1986 KB, 2006)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines developed and tested designs for six materials-handling devices for use in underground mines to reduce materials-handling injuries. Particular attention was focused on making the designs practical, low cost, and easily fabricated. The devices include scoop-mounted lift boom, swing-arm boom, heavy component lift-transport, mine mud cart, container-work station cart, and timber car. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) has developed an inflatable feed-tube seal (IFTS) for high-expansion foam generators. The IFTS is a lightweight, portable, rectangular inflatable bag that can be used by firefighters to rapidly seal large openings, such as those in underground mines, and to simultaneously provide a feed-tube for a high-expansion foam generator. Thus allows fire-fighting foam to freely flow to the fire site and control or extinguish the fire. Studies indicated that a high-expansion foam plug will travel 183 m (600 ft) down an entry with a 4.5% rise in elevation, before leakage of foam from around the inflatable partition. (PDF, 954 KB, 1995-06)

The Bureau of Mines completed an investigation of the influence of material on the ignition probability using the breakflash apparatus. This report presents results of an investigation into the influence of disk electrode material on the probability of ignition. (PDF, 2674 KB, 1992)

Since 1970, abnormally high methane emissions have been observed in eastern sections of the Federal No. 2 Mine operating in the Pittsburgh coalbed in northern West Virginia. The nature and volume of these emissions indicate a source other than the coalbed. An investigation was undertaken to delineate probable methane sources. (PDF, 954 KB, 1984)

Due to variations in the thickness of U.S. coal seams, there is great variability in the height of the roof where underground miners work. Using the employment and injury data reported to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) from 1990 to 1996, small underground bituminous coal mines with less than 50 employees were stratified by average coal seam height according to several categories. (PDF, 590 KB, 2001-11)

The investigation reported here is an initial study of the stability of the first of the proposed chambers at the Homestake Mine in Lead, SD. (PDF, 206 KB, 2002-07)

The objective of this project was to perform a preliminary study to determine the desirability/practicality of burying the communication cables in underground mines in order to protect then from the effects of fires and explosions. We found the overall desirability/practicality of cable burial must be regarded at this time as highly questionable,.  (PDF, 2399 KB, 1982-02)

Australian compensation statistics suggest that 22% of all lost time claims in the mining industry are associated with mobile plant and transport. A previous analysis of injury data obtained over 10 years from six mines suggested that the equipment most commonly involved in these injuries were continuous miners, shuttle cars, load-haul-dump vehicles and personnel transport. This paper reports an analysis of the narrative text fields accompanying all reports of injuries associated with these equipment types in New South Wales underground coal mines in the three years to June 2005. (PDF, 265 KB, 2006)

This surveillance report summarizes data on work-related fatal and nonfatal injuries, illnesses, and hazardous exposures in the mining industry for the 10-year period 1986-1995. (PDF, 2089 KB, 2000-05)

This paper is a descriptive analysis of injuries and fatalities at small surface bituminous coal mining companies in Pennsylvania. (PDF, 1422 KB, 1998)

This paper describes the in-mine evaluation of a smart mine fire sensor system and discusses recommendations for improving the system. (PDF, 433 KB, 2008)

An report on the evaluation of smoke detectors placed in conveyor belt entries of underground coal mines. Recommendations for performance standards, sensitivity tests, detector classification and maintenance are also presented. (PDF, 1553 KB, 1992)

The current state of the art of fire and smoke detection technology is reviewed from the standpoint of suitability for use in underground metal and nonmetal mines. Detection modes, fire signatures, and environmental considerations are included. Preliminary results of long-term, in-mine tests are presented. (PDF, 3024 KB, 1978-10)

The Bureau of Mines preproduction wireless survey system (WSS) and its performance during an in-mine test are discussed in this report. The WSS was developed to reduce downhole surveying time in order to increase the efficiency of drilling long horizontal methane drainage boreholes in coal. Borehole survey data are electromagnetically transmitted from the downhole guidance probe of the WSS, via the drill rod, to the uphole subsystem in less than 1 min per survey transmission, regardless of borehole depth. (PDF, 2550 KB, 1990)

After thoroughly covering the health and safety training subjects required under Title 30, Part 48, of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), mine operators often find themselves with little or no time left in the class schedule for other important topics. This paper discusses a technique developed in partnership with RAG Twentymile Coal Co., Oak Creek, CO, for incorporating employee participation at all levels in fire prevention and safe equipment operation training outside of traditional classrooms. (PDF, 492 KB, 2002-09)

During the past 15 years the number of reportable mine fires has declined. A decline in the number of reportable fires is a gross indicator that allows experts to say something about the underground coal industry generally: There has been some improvement in overall mine fire preparedness. However, such an indicator is less reliable as a predictor of readiness at any particular operation. (PDF, 152 KB, 1998)

This sheet explains your audiogram (hearing test) and gives some basic information about protecting your hearing. (PDF, 287 KB, 2007-11)
                                      

The U.S. Bureau of Mines was established in 1910 to reduce the high accident rate in the nation's coal mines. This essay identifies and discusses five "transfer factors" that can explain the success (or failure) of many Bureau of Mines projects. (PDF, 287 KB, 2000-03)

In this report the importance of diffusion in controlling the emission of methane in mines is examined. An in situ diffusion parameter is defined and calculated for a hypothetical unfractured lump of coal in the Pittsburgh and Pocahontas No. 3 Coalbeds. The values obtained are similar to those obtained with lump coal in laboratory experiments. (PDF, 447 KB, 1972)

This paper describes a seismic monitoring network that has recently been installed in the North Fork Valley coal mining region of western Colorado as part of a NIOSH mine safety technology transfer project with two longwall coal mine operators. (PDF, 619 KB, 2007)

The results of a series of tests in an underground mine were used to evaluate several measurement methods that are currently used to characterize particulate matter emitted by diesel-powered equipment. This paper presents an overview of these techniques and examples of the results, along with a discussion of the advantages and information gained by each technique. The measurement methods include particle size measurements using a scanning mobility particle sizer, total particulate matter measurements using a tapered elemental oscillating microbalance, a size-selective sampling method for workplace and personal exposure assessment, and a size-selective high-volume sampling method for carbon analysis. (PDF, 572 KB, 2006)

Recent NIOSH experience suggests that more attention may be needed in managing the issues associated with diesel emissions and their control. The author argues that a holistic approach is needed that involves several key mine operations, departments, or disciplines by positing that workplace air can be considered as the product of a complex manufacturing process and examining how that process could be managed. (PDF, 57 KB, 2006)

This report describes the creation of an efficient method to determine if command, control, communication, and monitoring (3cm) equipment in coal, metal, and nonmetal mines is susceptible to radio frequency interference (RFI) from the medium-frequency (MF) radio communications system. A qualitative and quantitative RFI test plan was developed for in-mine and laboratory evaluation of the equipment. Detailed information on the test plan and the transverse electromagnetic wave chamber is included. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing was done on three levels: component (circuit or box), subsystems, and system. Tables show the results of testing various equipment for RFI. (PDF, 2036 KB, 1986)

Unusual circumstances may require that a longwall retreat into or through a previously driven room; there have been a number of spectacular failures which exposed miners to serious roof fall hazards. To help determine what factors contribute to such failures, NIOSH compiled a comprehensive international database of 130 case histories. (PDF, 663 KB, 1998)

Perhaps the most significant development in coal mine ground control during the last century was the introduction of roof bolting during the late 1940's and 1950's. From an engineering standpoint, roof bolts are inherently more effective than the wood timbers they replaced. The story of how roof bolting was implemented by the mining industry, but took so long to live up to its promise, is a fascinating example of the interaction between economics, technology, regulation, and science. It still has important lessons for today. (PDF, 3504 KB, 2002)

Rock masses in deep-level mines are subject to high stresses, which can result in unexpected failure of rock into mined-out openings. Personnel from two research centers of the former U.S. Bureau of Mines, Spokane and Twin Cities, investigated a rock burst that occurred in May of 1994 in a rock mass between the 4400 and 4600 levels of the Sunshine Mine, Kellogg, ID. (PDF, 336 KB, 1997)

Instructor's guide and materials to provide training on investigation of slip/fall accidents. (PDF, 11703 KB, 1999-10)
                                                          

A method is described to determine dynamically the conductor temperature of reeled shuttle car cables using fiber optics technology. (PDF, 256 KB, 1997-10)

Laboratory testing and results are presented where five bituminous coals were prepared and processed through a double roll crusher located in a low-velocity wind tunnel. The results indicate that a combination of several factors are associated with airborne respirable dust generation. (PDF, 266 KB, 1998-10)

Field studies were conducted to record electromagnetic (EM) emissions at the Galena Mine, Wallace, Idaho. The goal of the research was to determine if EM emissions were valid precursors to imminent ground failure. (PDF, 275 KB, 2004-08)

This paper describes the results of three studies: 1) A series of 24 pull tests of bolts installed fully grouted and overcored to leave 12 inches of grouted bolt. The tests compared the pull-out performance of offset-head roof bolts with that of standard 5/8-inch bolts; 2) A second series of 24 tests that compared the pull-out loads obtained by bolts installed with 1 ft of resin (a Short Encapsulation Pull Test or SEPT) to that of fully grouted bolts overcored to leave only 12 inches of grouted bolt, and; 3) An investigation into the pressures generated during the installation of fully grouted resin bolts. (PDF, 364 KB, 2005)

Two types of airflow splitting methods for improving longwall dust control were investigated by NIOSH's Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. These methods included a transducer mesh barrier and a staged spray barrier system to confine the shearer-generated dust to the coal extraction side of the longwall face while maintaining a cleaner split of airflow on the opposing worker walkway side of the longwall face. (PDF, 1293 KB, 1999)

The Bureau of Mines measured methane emission rates from an advancing salt face ranging from 15 to 56 ft3/ton (0.5 to 1.8 M3/t). Small room size, use of a continuous miner, and a well-defined ventilation system made possible air velocity and methane concentration measurements. These measurements, representing data from 18 production days, were conducted in an area of abnormally low- grade salt. Methane emissions occurred primarily during the advance of the salt face by continuous miner. (PDF, 2100 KB, 1982)

The Bureau of Mines conducted an investigation into the occurrence of outbursts of salt known to be responsible for explosions, fatalities, and damage in domal salt mines. The purpose of the investigation was to develop a basis for predicting these outbursts based on geologic and associated physical properties of salt. The investigation was conducted at the Cote Blanche salt mine in southern Louisiana. (PDF, 1709 KB, 1988)

The roof in underground limestone mines in Northern Appalachia can be subject to high horizontal stresses in spite of the shallow depth of the workings. A case study is presented in which failure at the pillar-roof contact was observed where the dip of the workings was 7 deg. in a high horizontal stress field. The high horizontal stresses at this site are an important contributing factor to the observed failures. (PDF, 366 KB, 2004-08)

An investigation of the effectiveness of methane drainage in the lower Sunnyside coalbed at Kaiser Steel Corp. Sunnyside No. 1 Mine in Utah. Most previous attempts to drain methane gas using long horizontal holes were conducted in the eastern coal province. Four degasification holes were drilled from the outside entries of an advancing section. The four holes reduced face emissions by 78 pct. (PDF, 525 KB, 1986)

Steel liner plates, which are bolted together to form a shell, are commonly used to provide temporary protective linings in the tunneling industry to ensure the stability of the tunnel and safety of the workers until more permanent ground reinforcement can be installed. This report summarizes the full-scale test results, examines design parameters that impact the jacking force capability, and develops new mathematical models to improve the prediction of design loads. (PDF, 2262 KB, 2002)

This paper reviews research from the U.S. mining community to define issues relevant to an evolving national and international workforce and relate them to the emergency response population. (PDF, 740 KB, 2002-05)

The objectives of this study by NIOSH were to assess driver whole-body vibration (WBV) exposures and recommend interventions to reduce the risk of back-related injuries, particularly relative to vehicle jarring/jolting. (PDF, 1064 KB, 2008-09)

This report investigates that application of jet fans to ventilate cuts that extend beyond 40 feet. The results of tests involving a jet fan in a 90 foot entry, its benefits and potential problems are discussed. (PDF, 1756 KB, 1992)

This paper discusses methods for reducing musculoskeletal injuries in mines. It covers the implementation of ergonomics committees, identifying hazards, formulating and implementing solutions, and followup analysis to ensure the effectiveness of changes and to guard against the introduction of new ergonomic or safety hazards. (PDF, 8693 KB, 1994)

This report describes a process called job training analysis (JTA) for quickly developing information that is useful for skills training. Its main use is to structure skills training at the jobsite by identifying job duties, tasks, and steps and the reasons why those job components are important. The outcome of the process is a worksheet - a training outline based on the knowledge and expertise of experienced workers. Time invested in developing a JTA will save significantly more time when it is used appropriately by skilled trainers. (PDF, 927 KB, 2006-08)

This paper discusses human judgment and decision making under stress. The authors assert that stress is one of the factors that decision makers must contend with in most life-or-death situations. (PDF, 711 KB, 2003)

Realizing the increased awareness and simple changes are the first steps to reducing knee injuries, NIOSH researchers, along with industry and academia, have developed a training package to educate the mining community about some possible interventions beyond kneepads that may be used to help decrease knee injury rates. This document is an overview of how this training was developed, including a glossary of terms. (PDF, 1010 KB, 2008-05)

NIOSH experimentally investigated various factor effects on cab air filtration system performance. This paper describes the laboratory experiments which were performed on an enclosed cab test stand examining the independent factor effects of intake filter efficiency, intake filter loading (airflow resistance), intake air leakage around the filter, recirculation filter use, and wind on cab performance. (PDF, 1354 KB, 2008-11)

US coal mining organizations are losing the knowledge they need in order to be able to respond to emergencies. Knowledge management provides a useful perspective from which to view the problem, but the debate about what constitutes knowledge should be broadened to include a debate about what constitutes management.  (PDF, 173 KB, 2006)

This paper presents the results of NIOSH laboratory and field tests to evaluate the effectiveness of dust collector bags for reducing dust liberation and operator exposure from a roof bolter's dust collection system. (PDF, 742 KB, 2008-07)

This report includes the theory of operation, description, and the performance of the Personal Dust Monitor (PDM) compared to gravimetric-based reference dust sampling methods and laboratory verification of the instruments accuracy. There is also a detailed underground evaluation that includes measurement of the instruments precision, durability under mine use conditions, and the functionality of the instrument when used by miners. (PDF, 1735 KB, 2006-09)

Testing at NIOSH assessed the effectiveness of a canopy air curtain for controlling occupational exposures to respirable silica and coal dusts. (PDF, 303 KB, 2001)

Assessment of exposure to occupational dusts is a first step in reducing exposures to harmful dust concentrations. A new type of respirable dust sampler was developed and compared side-by-side to personal gravimetric samplers in the laboratory. (ASP, KB, 2000-01)

Laboratory test to simulate dust liberation during shield movement were conducted. (PDF, 707 KB, 2001)
                                                                     

NIOSH experimental investigation results indicate that the intake filter efficiency and recirculation filter were the two most influential factors on cab protection performance. (PDF, 150 KB, 2008)

Researchers performed laboratory studies on four passive and two semi-active seat suspension designs. These six seat suspension systems were tested and analyzed, for vertical vibration only, using the ISO 5007 Standard. (PDF, 502 KB, 2006)

A series of controlled laboratory tests were conducted in a test stand simulating shield dust entrainment to evaluate changes in airborne respirable dust levels at different air velocities. (PDF, 223 KB, 2001)

This U.S. Bureau of Mines report summarizes a study of large-scale strata response to longwall mining at a western U.S. coal mine. This study utilized surface and subsurface measurements, geologic mapping, in situ stress measurements, and pressure cell readings to characterize strata behavior. (PDF, 1429 KB, 1992)

Emerging laser technologies are quickly gaining acceptance in the industrial workplace. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is conducting research to help provide a scientific basis for developing appropriate safety guidelines for optical equipment in the presence of flammable methane gas and/or coal dust. (PDF, 512 KB, 1999)

The characteristics of leaders under the duress of an emergency are important in the development of emergency planning, training, and in the management of an actual emergency. The U.S. Bureau of Mines analyzed the leadership behavior in three underground mine fire escapes. This paper discusses the profile of six individual leadership characteristics which emerged from the data. (PDF, 753 KB, 1996)

Results of this Bureau of Mines study indicate that it may be advisable to reduce the weight of materials that are handled repetitively in the kneeling posture. (PDF, 495 KB, 1988)

This paper addresses the question, 'Can lightning cause potential differences capable of igniting methane-and-air mixtures at overburden depths at which underground coal mining occurs?' (PDF, 614 KB, 2002)

Presents the results of noise research conducted in both underground and surface limestone mines, detailing the equipment likely to cause worker overexposures and the occupations experiencing overexposures. Implications for worker noise exposure reduction are also reported. (PDF, 385 KB, 2006)

This article presents the results of the noise research conducted in both underground and surface limestone mines, detailing the equipment likely to cause worker overexposures, and the occupations experiencing overexposures. Implications for worker noise exposure reduction are also reported. (PDF, 1903 KB, 2006)

Few studies have specifically measured and documented the large-scale loading behavior and durability of ventilation stoppings to mining induced movements, particularly from longwalls. This paper presents the investigations of underground measurements that have been conducted to determine the loading response of stoppings constructed from lightweight aggregate concrete masonry units.  (PDF, 707 KB, 2001)

NIOSH conducted an evaluation of screen materials commonly used in U.S. coal mines to determine their support characteristics and identify the parameters that could affect their performance with respect to controlling the fall of rock from the roof surface. (PDF, 805 KB, 2006)

The objective of this study was to determine whether a qualitative but coherent redistribution of velocity, indicating change in location of induced stress, could be imaged as mining occurred in known locations by using a local earthquake tomography software code. (PDF, 267 KB, 2008)

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the preliminary findings of a long-term underground study of various types of surface support liners, and to examine installation practices that are critical for an effective liner material application. (PDF, 566 KB, 2003-08)

Methane emission from two surface gob-degasification boreholes was measured by the Bureau of Mines. The investigation took place during mining of a 3,200-foot longwall panel in the Lower Kittanning coalbed in central Pennsylvania. The first hole was 500 feet from the start of mining, and the second hole was 2,200 feet. The first hole went on natural draft as soon as the longwall face passed it. This caused the methane flow in the return entries to drop 75 pct. In the 6 months required to complete the panel, the two holes emitted 69 MMcf of methane in varying percentages of concentration in air. In 3 years, the holes emitted a total of 150 MMcf of methane. (PDF, 649 KB, 1976)

This report describes an investigation into the removal of gate road chain pillars in conjunction with longwall retreat mining. The objective was to determine, through evaluation of the loads imposed on the gate road pillars and supplemental support elements in the entries, how the pillars, supplemental support, and entries were affected by the longwall abutment pressure. The findings are the result of information collected from instrumentation and observation at the mine. (PDF, 1244 KB, 1993-01)

Roof support systems, longwall shields in particular, have persistently grown in size and capacity for the past 25 years. Why is this? Is it a good thing or is it unnecessary? What are the consequences of this bigger-the-better design philosophy? Does high capacity ensure failures will not occur? There are fundamental aspects of support design and ground control that we still do not understand or recognize when designing a support system. This paper provides an interesting evaluation of these issues and proposes a different approach to support design that attempts to match the support performance characteristics to the ground behavior. (PDF, 705 KB, 2007)

This paper addresses both the safety and the operational issues associated with mobile roof support (MRS) usage during shield recovery. It also discusses new developments, including the use of the inherently safer battery powered MRS's, which have been recently certified by MSHA. (PDF, 1217 KB, 2007)

The primary objective of the paper will be to discuss strata mechanics and ways in which the support and strata interaction can be evaluated to provide an optimized secondary support design, particularly standing support systems, for longwall tailgates. (PDF, 566 KB, 2003)

A brochure about power line safety. (PDF, KB, 2004)
                                                                                                                    

Research was conducted to determine the safe operating conditions for using recycled (used) lubricating oil from mining equipment as a partial replacement for diesel fuel to make ANFO-type blasting agents. (PDF, 964 KB, 1996)

NIOSH performed an evaluation to determine to what extent building types could impact respirable dust and noise levels. This report discusses the evaluation of three different types of product sizing silica sand structures: a masonry design, a steel-sided design, and an open structure design. The data obtained in this study indicate that the open structure design (no walls) was superior from both a dust and noise (health) standpoint compared to the other two structures. (PDF, 988 KB, 2006-11)

A cooperative research effort was established to lower respirable dust levels in an iron ore grinding and concentrator plant. The most significant improvement was realized by changing the ventilation profile throughout the entire facility. Another successful modification was to improve the sealing of a reclaim tunnel to the outside and to barricade the access point from the reclaim tunnel to the concentrator plant. These two modifications illustrate the impact that improvements in ventilation can have on lowering respirable dust concentrations in iron ore processing facilities. (PDF, 294 KB, 2006)

Although it is generally believed that coal formation occurred at temperatures below 200 deg c, most experimental work on gas formation from coal has been performed at temperatures between 200 deg and 1,000 deg C. The objective of this Bureau of Mines experiment was to determine if observable changes in the gases from coal could be produced at temperatures below 200 deg c in relatively short periods of time.  (PDF, 1056 KB, 1974)

This paper presents the results of a study using computer human modeling to examine machine appendage speed. The objective was to determine the impact of roof bolter machine appendage speed on the likelihood of the operator coming in contact with the appendage. (PDF, 581 KB, 2003)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has developed a machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor (MMCRDM) based on the tapered-element oscillating microbalance (TEOM®) sensing technology. The sensor can be mounted on mobile mining equipment and can continuously and accurately measure respirable coal mine dust mass concentrations despite the rigors of the underground mine environment. The display shows dust levels averaged over various intervals and a graph of the shift average as a function of time. The monitor also incorporates several automatic diagnostic functions to detect system failure or tampering. (PDF, 1759 KB, 1997-10)

This report describes magnetic field measurements in the Helvetia Coal Co. Lucene No. 8 Mine for purposes of deriving a mapping of the magnetic field strength covering the major haulageways which contain conductors. The results of the testing at medium frequency show that coverage of the entire mine area containing conductors can be achieved employing wireless radio techniques whereby radio signals are coupled into and are carrled by these conductors. This report presents all the raw data and the reduced data in the form of magnetic field strength contour maps. Sufficient information is provided to enable independent reduction of the data. A summary of observations which can be made directly from the contour maps is given.  (PDF, 568 KB, 1977)

The purpose of this Maintainability Design is to provide a summary of design review points for the maintainability assessment of new or existing underground equipment. (PDF, 50 KB, 1996)

The document is instructional material for a 7-minute video that shows how well roof screen keeps loose rock from falling in difficult roof conditions. (PDF, 1575 KB, 2005-03)

This chapter summarizes how certain geologic features may be associated with unexpected increases in gas emissions during coal mining. These unexpected emissions have the potential to create explosive conditions in the underground workplace. Also discussed are the generally used practices to alleviate potential hazards caused by gas emissions associated with these geologic features. (PDF, 4851 KB, 2006)

More that 700 microseismic emissions were collected from two underground limestone mine roof fall areas in southwestern Pennsylvania. Microseismic events were located and magnitudes determined using the moment magnitude technique. The amount of new fracture surface length was calculated based on the stored strain energy within the rock prior to fracture. A significant amount of microseismic activity was observed as much as two days before the first signs of failure in the roof fall areas. Additionally, results from this analysis reveal much about the behavior of strata prone to failure and allows for the construction of hazard maps based on microseismic emissions. (PDF, 855 KB, 2004-08)

Material properties affecting slope stability were measured in a large 50-year-old, partially consolidated rock dump located in an active open-pit mine. Field tests included single-ring infiltration and density. (PDF, 3455 KB, 1999-12)

Handling materials in underground mines continues to be a major safety problem. To reduce single-event lift injuries, equipment having mechanical automatic weight sensing and balancing control was investigated. The Coleman manipulator was selected for testing. Modifications were made to make it more suitable for underground mine use. The authors also discuss other innovative ways to improve materials handling. (PDF, 5347 KB, 2001-09)

NIOSH research suggest that by incorporating ventilation planning into the mine planning process, using propeller fans, developing new stopping materials and construction methods, and using long pillars to eliminate crosscuts where possible, the ventilation of large-opening mines can be significantly improved. (PDF, 229 KB, 2006-06)

Mine workers are exposed to additional noise levels underground due to the reflection of machine generated noise that would otherwise dissipate in an above ground setting. This paper presents a method using a ray-tracing technique to determine absorption coefficients, for octave bands from 63 Hz to 8 kHz, for underground mines. (PDF, 230 KB, 2007-11)

This paper will present a method using a ray-tracing technique to determine absorption coefficients for underground mines. Absorption coefficients are determined and presented for octave bands from 63 Hz to 8 kHz. The absorption coefficients will be essential for determining and predicting potential noise overexposure to machine operators in different mine environments. (PDF, 162 KB, 2006)

Reports on a test system and computer program developed for using a three-axis ultrasonic anemometer to measure airflow in a simulated mine entry. (PDF, 461 KB, 2004)

Elemental carbon (EC) is used as a surrogate for regulating the exposure to diesel particulate matter (DPM) of underground metal/nonmetal miners. Currently, EC represents DPM well in underground mines. Some control technologies have been shown to possibly alter the relationship between DPM and EC and characteristics of DPM. Therefore, future work will investigate the relationship between DPM and EC as new control technologies are implemented. (PDF, 212 KB, 2006)

The Bureau of Mines and United States Steel Corp. are conducting a joint project to monitor formation pressures at a large (23-well) coalbed gas drainage field near Oak Grove, Alabama. Three monitor holes were drilled in late 1981, and pressure monitoring began in December 1981. The Bureau of Mines direct method was used to obtain gas content data from cores taken in the monitor holes. Comparison of the 1981 gas content data from the monitor holes with initial gas content values obtained from the production wells in 1977 indicates a 50-pct reduction in adsorbed gas content inside the pattern and a 29-pct reduction at one point 500 ft outside the pattern. (PDF, 1492 KB, 1985)

This paper describes an alternative measure of risk in mining using a beta distribution to model the losses and to compare underground coal mining to underground metal/nonmetal mining from 2000 to 2004. (PDF, 1529 KB, 2007-12)

Coalbed gas content measurements are commonly used in mine safety as well as coalbed methane resource assessment and recovery applications. Gas content determination techniques generally fall into two categories: (1) direct methods which actually measure the volume of gas released from a coal sample sealed into a desorption canister and (2) indirect methods based on empirical correlations, or laboratory derived sorption isotherm gas storage capacity data. Direct gas content determination techniques may be further,subdivided into quick-crushing and extended desorption methods. Direct method techniques for gas content measurement are the focus of this paper. (PDF, 1581 KB, 1998-02)

The methane content of virgin bituminous coalbed can now be measured accurately in the field with exploration core samples from vertical boreholes. The gas content of the coal per unit weight can be used either to design a mine ventilation system or to determine if degasification of the coalbed will be necessary before mining, and to determine the gas resources in the coalbed. The equipment necessary to conduct the test costs less than $50. The gas content of the coal in place in the ground is determined by summing the gas lost from coring, gas measured during desorption, and the residual gas in the coal. Friable coals emit nearly 96 pct of the total gas during desorption whereas a blocky coal emits only 60 pct of its total gas. Coalbeds that are ill defined as to their blocky or friable nature must be tested in the laboratory for unambiguous analysis. (PDF, 845 KB, 1975)

A case study of a rock burst was conducted as part of a project to reduce rock burst hazards being undertaken by the Spokane Research Laboratory (SRL) of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (PDF, 278 KB, 2002-07)

Theoretical and experimental research sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Mines shows that medium frequency (MF) electromagnetic (EM) signals propagate great distances in an underground environment such as a tunnel or mine. This propagation is enhanced by different mechanisms associated with the geology, and with the existence of metallic conductors in the entryways. (PDF, 507 KB, 1984)

An underground medium frequency radio communications system has been developed and demonstrated in both coal and metal/non metal mines. The principal advantage of the system are its low cost, ease of installation and the ability to provide radio communications to any vehicle or roving miner in the underground mine. The system provides high quality radio coverage in work areas and along manways with existing "wireplant" conductors. The conductors include AC power cable, telephone cable, metal water and high pressure air pipes, etc. The measured communications range from the base station to mobile transceiver exceeded 12,500 ft without the use of repeaters. (PDF, 12385 KB, 1983-01)

This report deals with information regarding a new Medium Frequency (MF) Wireless Communication System for underground mines. This new telecommunication system works on low loss electromagnetic wave propagation modes which allow it to provide quality radio communications almost anywhere in a mine. This paper covers the following: 1) MF design plan, 2) Overview of mine radio communications systems, 3) Preparations needed for designing an MF system, 4) MF equipment, 5) MF installation, 6) MF design considerations, 7) MF design specifications, and 8) Recommendations dealing with MF system. Experiments in four mines are illustrated to demonstrate the success and viability of the MF system. (PDF, 6897 KB, 1984-09)

Medium-frequency (MF) waves can propagate in a coal seam, bounded above and below by conducting rock, in an approximate transverse electro-magnetic (TEM) transmission-line mode with the electric field vertical and the magnetic field horizontal. The theory of this coal seam mode is applied to recent MF data for a number of mines in order to classify the propagation characteristic of the mines in a simple way. The use of MF for mine communications is discussed. (PDF, 403 KB, 1978)

Mining Facts are one-page mining fact sheets covering a variety of topics of general interest relating to mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 187 KB, 2003-07)

In 2002, a total of 256 metal mining operations reported employment to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Metal mines were the smallest mining sector,1 comprising 1.8% of all mining operations. Gold mines comprised 44.1% (n = 113) of all metal mining operations. Other types of metal mines were copper ore (n = 31; 12.1%), iron ore (n = 25; 9.8%), and lead and/or zinc ore (n = 21; 8.2%). Nevada is the state with the largest number of metal mines (n = 53; 20.7%). (PDF, 191 KB, 2004-01)

In 2003, a total of 258 metal mining operations reported employment to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Metal mines were the smallest mining sector, comprising 1.8% of all mining operations. Gold mines comprised 44.2% (n = 114) of all metal mining operations. Other common types of metal mines were iron ore (n = 29; 11.2%), copper ore (n = 28; 10.9%), and lead and/or zinc ore (n = 21; 8.1%). Nevada had the largest number of metal mines (n = 48; 18.6%) followed by Alaska (n = 29; 11.2%). (PDF, 195 KB, 2005-02)

This 2004 mining fact sheet covers statistics of general interest relating to surface and underground metal mining operations, workers, fatalities, nonfatal lost-time injuries, and occupational illness. (PDF, 75 KB, 2007-09)

The Bureau of Mines made laboratory absorption measurements on oil shale samples, which showed that the amount of methane absorbed is prorportional to pressure and oil yield, and can be much larger than would be predicted based solely on porosity. Oil shale cores collected in the field were also measured for their gas content using the Bureau of Mines direct method. Cores taken from deep locations and far from outcrops yielded more gas than cores from shallower locations or at outcrops, when taking into account variations in oil yield, and all data indicate that oil shale mines that are both deep and far from an outcrop will emit low levels of methane gas. (PDF, 628 KB, 1977)

The Bureau of Mines investigated the presence and extent of methane accumulations in mine roof cavities using a full-scale mine model. Methane was released at a constant rate into the roof of a cavity built onto a 700-ft wind tunnel. Two box-shaped roof cavities were used in the study: one had a volume of 114.7 cu ft; and the other had a volume of 57.3 cu ft. Methane concentration was measured at 28 sampling points in the cavities using 21 different combinations of gas emission rates and air velocities. Brattice hung in the cavity helped reduce methane concentrations without auxiliary ventilation. It was also found that the effective ventilation rate increased by a factor of 40 in the large cavity and by a factor of 20 in the small cavity when air velocity was increased from 100 to 600 ft/min. (PDF, 622 KB, 1978)

The effect of water infusion on the flow of methane and on the production of dust was investigated at an active face in the Pittsburgh coalbed. The average total flow of methane at the face decreased by approximately 79 percent, whereas the flow from the ribs increased about 24 percent after infusion. On the day after infusion, dust concentrations appear to have been reduced; however, the presence of large quantities of rock dust obscured the results on the following days. (PDF, 863 KB, 1972)

The periphery of longwall panels in the Pocahontas No. 3 Coalbed is characterized by a zone of reduced permeability that inhibits the natural drainage of methane. However, natural drainage holes drilled during development have been found to reduce the gas content of the coal in this coalbed by over 90 percent. The effect of water infusion on dust during plowing operations was investigated using existing methane drainage holes. Both total and respirable dust levels were reduced by 40 to 79 percent. Water infusion of the panel proved more effective than did the use of a plow-mounted spray system. (PDF, 1130 KB, 1974)

The Bureau of Mines developed data on the methane content of the Hartshorne coalbed, Haskell and Le Flore Counties, Oklahoma. The methane content is calculated to be between 1.1 and 1.5 trillion cubic feet. Methane increases with depth, but the rate of increase decreases with greater depths. Degasification in advance of mining is recommended for all mines operating at depths greater than 500 feet to reduce hazards and methane explosions, decrease mine ventilation costs, and conserve the natural gas that would be otherwise wasted. (PDF, 1104 KB, 1979)

The Bureau of Mines determined the gas contents of 135 oil shale samples obtained from approximately 630 ft of core drilling. Drilling was done within a projected mining zone of the Cathedral Bluffs Mine, located in the Piceance basin of western Colorado. Methane contents were determined by the modified direct method, which can measure the volumes of several gases released from or reacted with mine rock without destructive sample treatment. (PDF, 2039 KB, 1987)

This chapter gives guidelines for preventing methane gas explosions at continuous miner sections in coal mines, both at continuous miners and at roof bolters. The need to control peak methane emissions is particularly stressed. Emphasis is also placed on ventilation principles, monitoring for gas, and reducing frictional ignitions. (PDF, 4851 KB, 2006)

As one of its projects for degasification of major panels of coal prior to mining within them, the Bureau of Mines conducted methane emission studies during development of a set of three headings 1,800 feet in a major coal panel (2,700 by 3,500 feet) which had been completely isolated by sets of main headings for 12 months in the Federal No. 2 Mine (Pittsburgh coalbed) in northern West Virginia. Similar emission studies were conducted in the development of two sets of main headings in virgin coal areas nearby. Comparing the two sets of data indicated that the isolated coal panel had been degasified by approximately 70 percent. (PDF, 497 KB, 1973)

Ventilation has long been the primary means of controlling methane emissions in underground coal mines. However, as mining has progressed into gassier areas of U.S. coal basins, supplemental means of methane control have become of interest, if not a necessity, for continued safe and productive mining operations. This paper describes the history and technology of methane drainage in the United States and other countries. The methane drainage technology developed in European countries is a valuable resource since their longer history of mining has already forced mine operators to deal with methane emission problems only now being experienced in the United States. (PDF, 3232 KB, 1994)

Research workers from the Bureau of Mines and industry met with other government and industry representatives at the Mont Chateau Lodge, Morgantown, West Virginia, on May 30-31, 1973, to discuss the current status of methane control in eastern U.S. coal mines. The opening remarks, the eight technical presentations, and the discussions of the members of a government-industry panel are published here for the benefit of those concerned with the control of methane in coal mines. (PDF, 8521 KB, 1973)

Presents a brief summary of the explosion trends in United States coal mines for the past 160 years. These trends show that in spite of the overall improvements in mine safety, the number of fatalities from ignitions of methane has actually increased in recent years. Suggestions are made of procedures that can be utilized to reverse this trend. (PDF, 1249 KB, 1973)

The cross-measure borehole technique is an effective method of controlling methane liberated by fracturing the roof strata in longwall gobs where overburden is less than 750 ft (229 m). About 71 pct of the methane produced by longwall mining in the Lower Kittaning coalbed was captured by the cross-measure boreholes. Borehole spacing is an important factor affecting the performance of the technique. (PDF, 1188 KB, 1985)

A sorption apparatus for measuring the equilibrium sorption isotherm and the rate of diffusion of methane from fine-sized coal was designed and constructed. Preliminary work that used Pittsburgh and Pocahontas No. 3 Coal shows that the diffusion coefficient varies with pressure and that the fracture spacing in these two coals is substantially different. (PDF, 618 KB, 1972)