Maintenance Safety in the Mining Industry

Lightning

• Both surface and underground mines can be susceptible to lightning strikes. Maintaining systems designed to cope with lightning strikes is an important way of preventing equipment failures and explosions due to lightning.

Mechanical

• Mining uses large, powerful machinery that can injure or kill workers in cases of failure. Following proper maintenance schedules is critical for safe usage of mechanical systems.

Ventilation

• Underground mines require proper maintenance of ventilation systems. Ventilation systems both bring fresh air to underground workers and remove dangerous buildups of poisonous and explosive gases.

Chemicals

• Many mining processes use dangerous chemicals. Proper maintenance of containment systems prevent chemical spills and contamination.

Water

• Some mining processes use high-pressure water. Maintaining those high-pressure systems and related safety equipment are important in preventing injuries.