Underground mining involves various risks. The workers tend to suffer from respiratory diseases, since they inhale mine dust. In 2015, 26 people lost their lives due to a number of accidents in the US alone.

Modern underground mining technology not only assists in increasing the productivity of employees, it also minimizes safety risks for the workforce. This is the major reason why mining accidents have significantly reduced during the past two decades.

Let’s take a look at certain best practices to further improve safety standards in underground mining:

1. Plan Your Actions

When working in underground mines, you should plan your actions beforehand. Although it’s important to carry out the tasks efficiently in a timely manner, you shouldn’t overlook the safety of workers in an attempt to save time and resources.

Underground mining involves various risks. You should evaluate the risks and develop a plan to mitigate the risks.

Always invest in top quality equipment for underground. You may need to invest a big sum to buy the equipment, but it’ll help you in the long run. Aside from enhancing the productivity of the mining workers, you can also protect them from potential threats.

2. Professional Training

Before working in underground mines, workers should receive professional training. They should understand how to use modern tools and how to work in mines in a safe way.

A majority of mining accidents occur because workers are unaware of the dangers and the ways to prevent mining accidents. Through regular professional training, it’s possible to reduce mining accidents.

It’s not easy working in underground mines. Therefore, the workers should undergo fitness tests to ensure that their physical and mental health allows them to take up the job.

3. Safety Gear

It’s a must to wear safety gear while working in underground mines. It can protect you from accidents and respiratory diseases.

Here’s a brief list of the safety equipment commonly used in underground mines:

• Thick leather jackets
• Full-face helmet
• Leather gloves padded with carbon fiber
• Pants with added protection for hips and knees
• Goggles
• Mining boots with plastic caps for toes and ankles
• Vests made up of reflective material
• Earplugs
• Cap Lamp
• Respiratory Protective Gear
• Full-body harness

4. Follow the Safety Standards

The Mine Safety and Health Administration or MSHA develops safety standards for mining. The mining companies should follow these safety standards to improve working conditions for their workers.

You should follow the latest safety standards to protect your employees from dangers and also avoid any legal consequences.

Use high quality working equipment and don’t ignore the maintenance. If the machinery or the safety gear is outdated, replace it with modern gear at the earliest.

Also, document your safety procedures and share the document with the workers. This way, the mining workers will understand what to do in case of an accident.

It’s not possible to eliminate risks from the mining industry, but the above-mentioned tips can help in reducing the impacts of mining accidents.