Prevention of flammable gas and coal dust explosions in collieries

Prevention of flammable gas and coal dust explosions in collieries

NB: No alterations to ventilation system should be allowed unless authorized by the manager in consultation with the section 12.1 of the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 26 of 1996) appointee.

5.6. Change in production arrangements

No unauthorised change in the approved mining layouts/sequence is to be permitted. Only the appointed manager, after consultation with the section 12.1 of the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 26 of 1996) appointee, may authorise such change.

5.7. Mining sequence

The mining sequence is to be so planned so as to complement environmental control conditions.

5.8. Burnt coal and geological anomalies

Mining with a mechanical miner in burnt coal is not to be permitted unless the mechanical miner is equipped with a system that will prevent frictional ignition. The precautions to be taken when approaching such areas should be well documented in the code of practice.

Special precautions should be stipulated to prevent any dangerous situation developing. This may include additional gas detection and or additional ventilation.

5.9. Flammable gas emission rate

The flammable gas emission rate should be ascertained so as to assist in the design and planning of an effective ventilation system. Special precautions shall be instituted by the manager to maintain the concentration of flammable gas in the atmosphere to within acceptable limits.

5.10. Continuous flammable gas detection devices

Continuous monitoring for flammable gas should be done in the heading being mined by the mechanical miner. (use of continuously operating devices).

This unit should effectively monitor the flammable gas concentration present and should be in compliance with the SANS 101515 specification.

5.11. Maintenance

It is imperative that on-going maintenance throughout the shift be done and records be kept. This would inter-alia include the following:

5.11.1. Changing of blunt picks.

5.11.2. Installing picks where they are missing.

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