There is no argument that Mining has become safer for the workers, over the centuries. With legislation to protect workers, companies implementing good safety procedures and workers practicing them, the fatality numbers continue to decline.
Mine safety practice involves the implementation of recognised hazard controls and reduction of risks associated with mining activities to legally, socially and morally acceptable levels.
The most common accidents occurring in the mining industry are the result of poisonous or explosive gases or mishaps relating to the use of explosives for blasting operations. Let’s have a look at some of the interesting facts behind the activities and incidence that occur in the mine. Specialised instruments needs to be installed in these highly explosive atmospheres to avoid any unwanted explosions. Banshee Flameproof products has a wide range of explosion proof and flameproof products designed to safely operate in these areas.
FUN MINING FACTS
Fact #1
The first metals to be unearthed were gold and copper. Copper finds have dated back to 8,700 BC. Scientists have even located copper pipes that dated back more than five thousand years.
Fact #2
In 1906 children as young as 12 years old were working underground in coal mines. Broken limbs and crushed fingers were common.
Fact #3
Some of the most common safety incidence is caused by the high temperatures and humidity in mines, resulting in heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, which can be fatal.
Fact #4
During the gold and silver rushes in Western America, some of the most famous and successful miners were Irish immigrants or of Irish descent. This phenomenon gave rise to the phrase “The Luck of the Irish.”
Fact #5
Although the mining industry employs only 1% of the global labor force, it generates 8% of all fatal accidents.
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