Fire underground

In the case of a fire underground all persons need to get to a refuge chamber as soon as possible. Normally the alarm will be raised and the mining emergency plan put into action, APMS.

Don’t don your self-rescuer, unless you encounter smoke. They don’t last very long, 30 to 90 minutes depending on the model and your work rate. If you have to use it, use it. Try to make it to the nearest refuge chamber or fresh air base.

If you are at the fire then make sure you report it, isolate the machine then try to fight it from up wind if possible. If you have no luck make your way to the nearest refuge chamber.

Gasses underground

Most mines uses the same procedure for gasses as they do for fires. That is, get the miners to the refuge chambers.

If you smell gas or your monitor starts beeping at you, then you need to retreat out of the area you are in. Do not investigate, notify the shift boss and follow instructions, APMS.

Areas with no Ventilation

If you have to go up a drive with no ventilation, don’t.

Always make sure the drive you are entering has been ventilated. This can take up to 20 minutes so be patient and use a Co monitor once finished.