MSHA notes winter hazards to avoid

The Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA) issued its annual winter alert to emphasize the hazards falling temperatures and the onset of winter create for miners.

MSHA reminds mine operators to pay attention to seasonal changes that may affect both surface and underground work environments. According to MSHA, limited visibility, slippery walkways, and freezing and thawing highwalls contribute to possible mishaps during winter months. MSHA’s safety campaign, which runs through March 2017, emphasizes increased vigilance and adherence to safety principles in colder months.

“The risk of underground coal mine explosions increases every winter, as do hazards associated with ice and snow that collect at surface facilities and preparation plants,” says Joe Main, MSHA’s assistant secretary. “While mine safety has improved vastly over time, these types of explosions have occurred far too often. We must remain vigilant about the conditions that can set them off.”