How do you scale the right way?

When scaling there are some basic rules to follow:

Always make a visual inspection of the area to be scaled

When you arrive, take your time and have a good look around. Once you find the areas to be scaled, check that you have a clear escape path from that area.

Always have a plan of escape from the area being scaled

Always scale from good ground to bad

Always sound the ground as you go

When the ground is struck with a scaling bar and the bar makes a high pitched ‘ping’ sound then the rock joint is fine. However if the rock makes a low ‘thud’ sound or the bar makes a low ‘dong’ sound then the joint is failing and the rock needs to come down .

If it makes a thud sound from the rock this means the rock could come down at any time so be careful.

Always scale in front of yourself

Always have a clear means of escape out of the area being scaled.

Only one person to scale in one area (unless 2 bars are required for a large rock, if it won’t come down with 2 bars it’s not ready yet and should be painted up for next time).

If scaling out of an IT basket at height (all fall equipment must be used in accordance with mine standards) always scale from the front of the basket. Never scale back over towards the IT as a rock may damage the machine. Always think about what will happen when you remove a rock.

When scaling, always stand with your foot pointed towards the rock you intend to scale with the other foot a shoulder width apart at 90 degrees to your front foot. This stance will keep you balanced and allow you to push off backwards if needed.

Hold the bar with both hands keeping the bar at a 45 degree angle.

From this position you are ready to scale in front of yourself.

Unfortunately over the years, rock falls have been responsible for over 100 deaths. We make this point because scaling is a very necessary part of mining and needs to be treated with respect and the rules followed.

Never scale above your head