Prevention of flammable gas and coal dust explosions in collieries

Prevention of flammable gas and coal dust explosions in collieries

8.3.5.3 The interlocking of on board scrubber fans and other electrical equipment used within relevant areas;

8.3.5.4 The positioning of switchgear with respect to prevalent air flow;

8.3.5.5 The performing of flammable gas tests before starting or stopping electrical equipment; and

8.3.5.6 The restoration of electrical power after a power failure e.g. no automatic re- starting of fans, safety precautions necessary to prevent a flammable gas ignition, the level of supervision for each activity.

8.3.6 Where lightning could ignite flammable gas , compliance with SANS 10313 Specifications must be considered.

8.3.7 Where spontaneous combustion could ignite flammable gas , measures for the inspection of all work areas and monitoring of abandoned areas and atmospheres behind containment walls must be stipulated.

8.3.8 Where explosives are used, these do not create an additional risk of igniting flammable gas .

8.3.9 Prevention of contraband from being taken underground.

8.3.10 Prevention of flammable gas ignitions when using any welding, flame cutting, flame heating, grinding, vulcanising, soldering, pick sharpening, electronic instrumentation and photography video or audio taping, etc. Measures shall include the following:

8.3.10.1 The training of competent persons to perform such work;

8.3.10.2 Issuing and control of flint lighters;

8.3.10.3 The construction, ventilation, physical characteristics and orderly maintenance of the workshop and cutting bays so that work can be performed in a safe and healthy manner;

8.3.10.4 Precautions to be taken when working outside approved workshops or cutting bays;

8.3.10.5 The ventilation, inertisation, fire prevention and the gas testing procedure before, during and on completion of such work;

8.3.10.6 The precautions and devices utilized to quench flashback and to prevent back feeding of gas;

8.3.10.7 The proper transport, storage and use of gas cylinders and flammable liquid containers; and

8.3.10.8 The issuing, safekeeping and examination of both equipment and devices used.

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