IC9452 

INFORMATION

CIRCULAR/2000

An Underground Coal Mine Fire Preparedness

and Response Checklist: The Instrument
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Public Health Service

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Information Circular 9452

An Underground Coal Mine Fire Preparedness

and Response Checklist: The Instrument

By Ronald S. Conti, Linda L. Chasko, Charles P. Lazzara, Ph.D.,

and Gary Braselton

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Public Health Service

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Pittsburgh Research Laboratory

Pittsburgh, PA

August 2000
International Standard Serial Number

ISSN 1066-5552
CONTENTS

Page

Abstract ............................................................................... 1

Background .......................................................................... 2

Underground coal mine fire preparedness and response checklist ............................................... 3

Water system ......................................................................................... 3

High-expansion foam ................................................................................... 3

Fire extinguishers ...................................................................................... 5

Fire stations .......................................................................................... 5

Automatic fire detection and suppression systems ......................................................... 6

Coal and other combustible materials ..................................................................... 6

Self-contained self-rescuer .............................................................................. 7

First responders, fire brigades, and mine rescue ............................................................ 7

Other issues .......................................................................................... 8

Generic checklists ..................................................................................... 8

Summary ................................................................................................ 8

Acknowledgments ....................................................................................... 9

References .............................................................................................. 9

Appendix A.—NIOSH underground coal mine fire preparedness and response checklist ........................... 10

Water supply ......................................................................................... 10

Hoses and nozzles ..................................................................................... 17

Foam firefighting equipment ............................................................................ 21

Fire extinguishers ...................................................................................... 24

Fire stations .......................................................................................... 30

Detection systems ..................................................................................... 34

Suppression systems .................................................................................. 38

Ventilation ............................................................................................ 41

Combustible materials underground ...................................................................... 43

Housekeeping ......................................................................................... 46

Evacuation plans ...................................................................................... 48

Self-contained self-rescuers ............................................................................. 49

First responders to fire ................................................................................. 51

Fire brigades .......................................................................................... 54

Mine rescue .......................................................................................... 55

Specialized equipment .................................................................................. 56

Appendix B.—Examples of inspection, maintenance, and general housekeeping checklists and procedures .......... 59

Annual hydrant checks ................................................................................. 59

Annual fire hose checks ................................................................................ 60

Annual fire hose tests .................................................................................. 61

Monthly checks on foam generator ...................................................................... 62

Brattice curtain for foam generator ....................................................................... 64

Monthly surface fire extinguisher checklist ................................................................ 65

Biannual underground fire extinguisher checklist .......................................................... 66

6-month fire extinguisher inspection ...................................................................... 67

Extinguisher mounting locations ......................................................................... 68

Trailer-mounted Ansul 150C fire extinguishers ............................................................. 69

Firefighting equipment fire audit report ................................................................... 70

First-aid supplies (example 1) ............................................................................ 71

First-aid supplies (example 2) ............................................................................ 73

Emergency material skids ............................................................................... 74

Fire audit form......................................................................................... 75

Surface fire brigade trailer contents ...................................................................... 76

Underground fire brigade skid contents .................................................................. 78

Materials list for mine rescue emergency .................................................................. 79

Safety trailer locations .................................................................................. 80
CONTENTS–Continued

Page

Fire protection and firefighting standards ................................................................. 81

Fire prevention equipment checklist ...................................................................... 84

Functional test of mine monitoring systems ............................................................... 86

Weekly Conspec system functional test .................................................................. 87

Mine monitor inspection report .......................................................................... 88

Conspec emergency communication center activity log ..................................................... 89

Conspec room callout log ............................................................................... 90

Cutting/welding permit (example 1) ....................................................................... 91

Cutting/welding permit (example 2) ....................................................................... 92

Specifications for slope water line ........................................................................ 94

Sprinkler system for freezing and nonfreezing locations ..................................................... 95

Suppression system ................................................................................... 97

Annual functional test of the fire suppression at belt drives ................................................. 98

Drawing of a typical water lance ......................................................................... 99

Individual work hazard assessment ...................................................................... 100

Beltline inspection checklist ............................................................................. 102

SCSR check sheet ..................................................................................... 103

Daily SCSR examinations ............................................................................... 104

Appendix C.—Examples of response plans and training programs .............................................. 105

Mine emergency operation plan ......................................................................... 105

Emergency response (example 1) ......................................................................... 113

Emergency response (example 2) ......................................................................... 116

Emergency response (fire detection for two-entry system) .................................................. 119

Firefighting and evacuation plan ......................................................................... 125

Firefighting and evacuation duties ....................................................................... 133

Procedure and duties for fire ............................................................................ 139

Specific individual duty labels in the event of a fire ......................................................... 140

Mine fire training program .............................................................................. 141

Fire drill simulations .................................................................................... 142

Selection procedures for new emergency response members ................................................ 145

Requirements for emergency response teams .............................................................. 147

Training of fire brigade members ......................................................................... 149

Standard operating procedures for fire attack of the fire brigade .............................................. 150

Donning procedures for PA-80 SCBA .................................................................... 151

ILLUSTRATIONS

1. 1,000,000-gal surface water storage tank at an underground mine .......................................... 3

2. Measuring the throw distance of water hose ............................................................ 3

3. Inspection of an underground fire hydrant .............................................................. 4

4. Underground storage of fire water hose in barrel ........................................................ 4

5. Underground storage of fire water hose in a rack ........................................................ 4

6. Erecting a typical mine stopping for a high-expansion foam generator ...................................... 4

7. Inflatable feed-tube partition in the Lake Lynn Experimental Mine .......................................... 4

8. Dry-chemical portable fire extinguisher mounted on the rib ................................................ 5

9. Dry-chemical wheeled fire extinguisher ................................................................. 5

10. Rock dust stored in plastic bags ....................................................................... 6

11. Rock dust storage unprotected ........................................................................ 6

12. Fire trailer located on the surface of an underground mine ................................................ 6

13. CO fire sensor mounted in mine entry .................................................................. 6

14. Sprinkler system installed in mine entry ................................................................ 7

15. Underground oil storage area ......................................................................... 7

16. Improper storage of underground trash ................................................................ 7

17. Mine rescue teams fighting a conveyor belt fire at Lake Lynn Laboratory ................................... 8
iii

UNIT OF MEASURE ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS REPORT

Btu British thermal unit m/sec meter(s) per second

fpm foot (feet) per minute mg/L milligram(s) per liter

ft foot (feet) min minute(s)

ft/min foot (feet) per minute oz ounce(s)

ft3/min cubic foot (feet) per minute ppm part(s) per million

gal gallon(s) psi pound(s) (force) per square inch

gpm gallon(s) per minute psig pound(s) (force) per square inch, gauge

hr hour(s) sec second(s)

in inch(es) yd yard(s)

lb pound(s) EF degrees Fahrenheit
AN UNDERGROUND COAL MINE FIRE PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE CHECKLIST:

THE INSTRUMENT

By Ronald S. Conti,1 Linda L. Chasko,2 Charles P. Lazzara, Ph.D. 3 and Gary Braselton4

ABSTRACT

Preparedness is an important element of any underground mine's strategic plan in dealing with an unexpected

event, such as a fire. A fully implemented fire preparedness and response plan is essential in reducing the

probability and seriousness of a mine fire. This report describes the development of an underground coal mine

fire preparedness and response checklist (MFPRC). The checklist is a data collection instrument for profiling

both the fire prevention and response capabilities of a mine site and usually requires 3 to 4 days to complete.

The checklist encompasses conditions, procedures, and equipment that have frequently been identified as the

primary or contributing causes of underground coal mine fires. At least 1 day is needed underground to

evaluate the water system. This entails measurements of waterflows and pressures at fire hydrants, and water

throw distances of fire hose and nozzles at several locations (mains and branch lines). A few of the other topics

that are discussed with mine personnel include detection and suppression systems, combustible materials, mine

rescue and fire brigades, and firefighting equipment.

The MFPRC was developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH),

Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. Under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with

Cyprus Amax, Twentymile Coal Co. (Oak Creek, CO), the checklist was field tested and further refined.

Additional field tests were conducted at several other operating coal mines.

1

 Fire prevention engineer, Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA.

2

 Physical science technician, Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA.

3

 Research chemist, Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA.

4

 Safety trainer, Twentymile Coal Mine, Oak Creek, CO.
2

BACKGROUND

Fires are still too common an occurrence in the mining

industry. Statistics from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)5

 indicate that 153 reportable fires (i.e., fires

lasting more than 30 min after discovery or causing injury)

occurred at underground coal mines from 1990 to 1999 in

the United States, causing 1 fatality and 46 injuries.

A significantly higher number of unreportable fires are believed

to have occurred. A recent fire happened on November 25,

1998, at Cyprus Plateau Mining Corp.'s Willow Creek

underground mine near Price, UT, during coal production.

Forty-five miners evacuated. The mine was sealed, and inert gas

was injected into the fire area. Mine rescue teams entered the

sealed mine on December 9, 1998, to initiate recovery operations.

Another fire occurred on January 26, 1999, at Oxbow Mining,

Inc.'s Sanborn Creek underground coal mine near Somerset, CO.

All of the miners were evacuated, the mine was temporarily

sealed, and water was pumped into the mine through a borehole

to inundate the suspected fire area. Historically, mine fires have

caused fatalities, injuries, and economic losses totaling

hundreds of millions of dollars. One goal of the National

Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's (NIOSH)

Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL) is to enhance the safety

of the mine worker by preventing disasters caused by fires and

explosions.

The remote nature of underground mining requires workers

at all positions within the organization to maintain higher skill

levels in emergency response compared with workers in many

other industries. Traditional work organizations can, in greater

part, rely on professional, full-time, expert community services,

and specialists to assist in the response to fire, rescue, and

medical emergencies. For example, smaller cities and towns have

volunteer fire departments that are highly capable. The issue of

measuring fire preparedness for the individual mine site is

critical for predicting the response (including elements of

evacuation and firefighting) in case of an underground fire.

Fire is a major concern for those who work underground.

A mine fire can occur at any time and often results in a partial or

total evacuation of mine personnel. Therefore, a workforce that

is well trained to prevent, detect, and fight a fire is important. It

is also paramount for miners to maintain and know their escape

routes. However, a study by Vaught et al. [1996] of the

underground preparedness of miners at seven underground coal

mines showed that only 8% of the miners were satisfied with the

firefighting training they were receiving. Some of these miners

called for less complacency and more involvement by the

workers. Out of 214 miners surveyed, 38% reported that they

were notified sometime during their mining career to evacuate

the mine because of a fire, and 70% were involved in at least

1 firefighting incident.

5Mine fire statistics were obtained from MSHA's Denver Safety and

Health Technology Center, Injury and Employment Information Branch,

Denver, CO.

The success of safely controlling and extinguishing an

incipient mine fire depends on several factors, such as an

awareness of the fire hazards, early detection, availability of

effective firefighting equipment, quick response time, and

trained firefighters. If a coal mine fire cannot be contained by

direct firefighting methods within a few hours after discovery,

the chances of successfully extinguishing the fire without

sealing part of the mine or the entire mine are greatly diminished.

Many mine operators and workers are not aware of how quickly

mine fires can spread, have little knowledge of the magnitude of

a detectable fire, and lack experience in the proper selection and

use of modern firefighting equipment. Information on the latest

mine fire detection, alarm, and extinguishing technologies, and

firefighting strategies may be difficult to obtain. Such

equipment and techniques could significantly improve the

success rate of safe firefighting operations and reduce the risk

and occurrence of severe mine fires.

Fire research conducted by the former U.S. Bureau of Mines

(USBM) and actual mine fires have shown that fires can spread

very rapidly. For example, large-scale fire gallery experiments

have shown that conveyor belt fires can propagate at rates

greater than 0.10 m/sec (20 fpm) [Lazzara and Perzak 1990]. Still,

many in the mining industry believe that fire-resistant belting

will not burn. Modern fire detection and firefighting equipment,

although available, is not often found in underground mines.

Longer detection times result when fire sensors with slow

response times are employed [Conti and Litton 1992, 1993;

Morrow and Litton 1992]. Often, mine fires grow out of control

due to poor planning, inoperative detection systems, inadequate

water supplies, inappropriate firefighting equipment, broken

water lines, failed suppression systems, and improper personal

protective equipment.

Mitchell [1996] states that “the best facilities and equipment

can never compensate for poor preparation.” A large part of

mine fire preparedness is worker capability, experience,

motivation, and training, along with a strong commitment by

management. Facilities and programs for mine personnel to

learn about the hazards of mine fires, evaluate modern fire

detection and firefighting equipment and technologies, and

observe the proper methods to combat mine fires are lacking.

Mine fire application seminars and briefings, sponsored by

MSHA at the National Mine Health and Safety Academy

[Moser 1993] and conducted by NIOSH at PRL's Lake Lynn

Laboratory,6 are positive steps. Conti [1994] suggested that

increasing the mining industry's awareness of the dangers of

underground mine fires and conducting periodic fire audits with

a well-organized checklist could reduce the probability of a

major fire and improve the current state of fire preparedness.

6PRL conducts open industry briefings on mine fire preparedness to

enhance the mining industry's awareness of the dangers of underground

mine fires and convey research findings on the latest methods for

detection, control, response, and extinguishment of mine fires.
3

Figure 1.—1,000,000-gal surface water storage tank at

an underground mine.

UNDERGROUND COAL MINE FIRE PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE CHECKLIST

The underground coal mine fire preparedness and response

checklist (MFPRC) (appendix A) is a data collection instrument

used to profile both the fire prevention and response

capabilities of a mine site. This instrument can be used as an aid

in determining how well the mine meets certain portions of the

minimum requirements specified by 30 CFR or exceeds them.

Under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement

(CRADA) with Twentymile Coal Co., Oak Creek, CO, the

checklist was field tested and further refined. Additional field

tests were conducted at several other operating coal mines. The

checklist encompasses conditions, procedures, and equipment

that have frequently been identified as the primary or

contributing causes of underground coal mine fires. The

checklist usually requires 3 to 4 days at the mine site to

complete. At least 1 day is needed underground to evaluate the

water system. Other topics that are discussed with mine

personnel include detection and suppression systems,

combustible materials, mine rescue and fire brigades, and

firefighting equipment. Tables are included in the MFPRC to

tabulate the data. The checklist provides an instant picture of

the preparedness of the mine to prevent or respond to a fire and

identifies areas that need to be strengthened. After the MFPRC

is completed at a mine site, a data summary is prepared by

NIOSH personnel and forwarded to the appropriate mine

officials, or the summary can be compiled by the operator.

WATER SYSTEM

In the event of an underground coal mine fire, it is critical to

extinguish the fire in its early stages. Any delay in initiating

firefighting activities can result in an uncontrolled fire. Water is

an effective and economical fire extinguishing agent, and it is

usually abundant and easily pumped. However, water may not

always be available in sufficient quantity to fight a large fire.

Considerable planning should be given to adequate water

supplies, water lines, hydrants and their locations, water pressures, types and sizes of nozzles, and an appropriate hands-on

training program. It is crucial that an adequate amount of water

hose or line be readily available in a mine and that all fittings are

standardized to ensure equipment compatibility. Preparations

should be made to extend water lines in case a fire starts in a

remote section of the mine.

The MFPRC requires measurements of waterflows and

pressures at fire hydrants and water throw distances of the fire

hose and nozzles at several underground locations (main and

branch lines). The quantity and quality of the water available

for firefighting are determined and storage facilities examined.

A surface water storage tank at an underground mine is shown

in figure 1. Figure 2 illustrates testing of the throw distance of

a water hose. Fire hydrant locations and markings are checked,

as well as procedures to store and test water hose and nozzles.

The inspection of an underground fire hydrant is shown in

figure 3. The underground storage of water hose in a barrel and

in a rack is shown in figures 4 and 5, respectively.

The MFPRC includes tables to record the names of main

and branch water lines, pipe sizes and schedules, type of

material, and safe operating pressures. Measured waterflow and

pressures at fire hydrants are also noted. A fire nozzle table lists

the total number, type, and pressure rating of nozzles on the

surface and underground. A fire hose table identifies the location of water hoses, both on the surface and underground,

and includes total length, size, thread type, material, and

pressure ratings. Another table lists the throw distance of the

water stream at various locations with respect to entry height,

water hose size, and type of water nozzle.

HIGH-EXPANSION FOAM

When an underground fire cannot be directly attacked due

to heat, smoke, or hazardous roof conditions, high-expansion

foam may be one way to remotely quench the fire. Foam is a

convenient means of conveying water to a fire. It suppresses/
4

Figure 3.—Inspection of an underground fire hydrant.

Figure 2.—Measuring the throw

distance of water hose.

Figure 4.—Underground storage of fire

water hose in barrel.

Figure 5.—Underground storage of fire water hose in a

rack.
5

Figure 7.—Inflatable feed-tube partition in the Lake Lynn

Experimental Mine.

Figure 6.—Erecting a typical mine stopping for a highexpansion foam generator.

extinguishes a fire by cooling the fire, diluting the oxygen

concentration through the production of steam, and restricting

air currents to the fire and radiant energy from the burning fuel.

The foam can also reduce the spread of the fire by covering

combustibles near the fire. Before a foam system is implemented, the mine operator should consider the training and

resources needed to effectively use foam. Additional information on the use of foam for fighting underground coal mine fires

can be found in the report by Conti [1994]. The MFPRC

includes tables to record the various types of firefighting foam

generators and foam concentrates on hand, including their

locations, foam expansion ratio, and quantity of foam concentrates. Once the equipment and supplies are purchased,

a plan must be developed for using foam in the mine. Figure 6

illustrates the building of a typical mine stopping for use with a

foam generator. An inflatable feed-tube partition [Conti 1995;

Conti et al. 1998a] interfaced with a high-expansion foam generator is shown in figure 7. Foam
6

Figure 8.—Dry-chemical portable

fire extinguisher mounted on the rib.

Figure 9.—Dry-chemical wheeled fire

extinguisher.

equipment should be compatible with the mine water system

with regard to water quality, pressure, and fittings. When using

foam or any other means of extinguishment, the mine operator

should have an organized strategy for fast response and a

group of well-trained miners ready for an emergency situation.

The mine should also have periodic drills to test the

effectiveness of the firefighting plan.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Time is a critical factor when using a fire extinguisher in any

fire situation. Two or three seconds can mean the difference between a successful fire extinguishment or disaster. Portable,

multipurpose dry-chemical-type fire extinguishers are placed in

strategic locations throughout the coal mine, such as working

sections, electrical installations, oil storage stations, and on

diesel-powered equipment. Extinguishers must be examined

every 6 months to ensure that they have not been moved, are

visible and accessible, have intact seals, and have no apparent

damage or other obvious defects. Sometimes, because of an

inadequate maintenance program or an inexperienced operator,

a fire extinguisher fails to operate or to extinguish the fire.

A study to determine the reliability of dry-powder, handportable fire extinguishers in the mining industry was conducted

by Allen Corp. of America for the USBM [Baker et al. 1981]. Of

the 151 cartridge-type and stored-pressure-type extinguishers

tested at underground coal mines, 18 (12%) failed to operate

properly. The predominant failure causes were related to

unreported discharging, improper maintenance, and neglect of

environmental effects.

Extinguishers may not be handled until an emergency

occurs; during this period, the dry chemical can settle and

compact. This phenomenon is known as packing and is dependent on the particle size distribution of the dry-chemical

agent. Packing will be more severe if the particle size difference

is large and is most likely to occur if the extinguisher is stored

vertically and subject to vibration. Caking occurs when the drychemical agent is contaminated by moisture. The moisture

chemically reacts with the dry chemical and the individual

particles adhere to each other, forming lumps. Caking and

packing in dry-chemical extinguishers can affect performance.

One recently visited coal mine had recurring problems with

clogging of the elbow that connects the body of the

extinguisher to the discharge hose.

Two types of dry-chemical fire extinguishers used underground are shown in figures 8 and 9. The MFPRC includes a

table to identify the location and sizes of all fire extinguishers

stored underground and on the surface. The table includes the

total number and whether the extinguishers are hand-portable,

wheeled, or skid-mounted. An essential element in any fire

safety program is adequate hands-on training in the use and

recharging of fire extinguishers.

In addition, rock dust is stored in bags, as shown in

figures 10 and 11, at various underground locations to fight

fires. It is important that the rock dust be protected from moisture to prevent caking.

FIRE STATIONS

Fire stations include cars, houses, trailers, boxes, and sleds

that can transport personnel and equipment to the site of the

fire. Figure 12 shows a fire trailer located on the surface of an

underground coal mine. The stations must be easily transported

to the fire area and be equipped with up-to-date firefighting

equipment, tools, supplies, first-aid kits, and personal protective
7

equipment such as bunker gear, including self-contained

breathing apparatus (SCBAs). The stations should be

inspected regularly.
8

Figure 10.—Rock dust stored in

plastic bags.

 Figure 11.—Rock dust storage

unprotected.

Figure 12.—Fire trailer located on the surface of an

underground mine.

Figure 13.—CO fire sensor mounted

in mine entry.

A

UTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION AND

SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

The early and reliable detection of underground fires is

essential to ensure sufficient time to safely evacuate the miners

and to extinguish the fire before it spreads. Temperature, carbon

monoxide (CO), and smoke sensors can be used to detect

underground coal mine fires. Smoke and CO sensors can detect

a fire in its smoldering phase, before flames develop, depending

on the production rate of smoke or CO by the smoldering fuel

and the quantity of air flowing in the mine entry. The MFPRC

includes a table to record the types of sensors used, their

location, total number, spacing, and vertical position from the

mine floor. Any problems with false or nuisance alarms are

noted, and procedures for training personnel responsible for

monitoring, testing, and calibrating the detection system are

reviewed. A CO sensor mounted in an entry is shown in

figure 13.

Automatic fire suppression systems used in underground

coal mines include water deluge, water sprinkler, high-expansion

foam, and dry-chemical. Figure 14 shows a sprinkler system

mounted in a conveyor belt entry.

The MFPRC includes a table to record the type of system

employed and its location. The procedures used to test and

maintain the systems are reviewed. If water barriers (walls of

water) are installed in mine entries, another table is provided to

list their location, spacing, activation temperature, number of

nozzles, and waterflow.

COAL AND OTHER COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

In an underground coal mine, the coal is virtually an unlimited fuel supply. The most serious mine fires occurred when

the coal ignited and burned. The MFPRC addresses which
9

Figure 14.—Sprinkler system installed in mine entry. Figure 15.—Underground oil storage area.

Figure 16.—Improper storage of underground trash.

coalbed is being mined and several coal characteristics that can

influence its combustibility, including rank, volatility, and ash

content. In general, coals of lower rank have a greater selfheating tendency; high-volatile coals spread flame more readily.

Any occurrences of spontaneous combustion underground or

on the surface in storage piles or silos are noted.

The mining operation requires the use and underground

storage of combustible materials. These include fire-resistant

conveyor belting, ventilation tubing, electrical cable, and brattice cloth, as well as oil and grease, diesel fuel, wood timbers,

etc. It is important to realize that fire-resistant materials can

ignite and burn. For example, fire-resistant conveyor belting has

been shown to rapidly propagate flame and burn in large-scale

tests [Lazzara and Perzak 1990] and in actual mine fires [Strahin

et al. 1990]. The MFPRC includes tables to record the quantity

and characteristics of the conveyor belting and other

combustibles used and stored underground. For conveyor belting, the type (rubber or polyvinyl chloride), width, thickness,

length, location, and MSHA fire-resistant approval number are

recorded. The type, diameter, wall thickness, and MSHA fireresistant approval number of rigid ventilation ducting are also

noted. The total quantity of each combustible material, toxic

hazard (low, medium, high) due to burning, and any special

precautions beyond those required by Federal regulations are

listed. An underground oil storage area is shown in figure 15;

a trash storage area is shown in figure 16.

SELF-CONTAINED SELF-RESCUER

Federal regulations require that the mine operator make

available to each miner and authorized visitors an approved selfrescuer device(s) that is adequate to protect a person for 1 hr or

longer. The MFPRC addresses the type and model of the selfcontained self-rescuer (SCSR) used at the mine, the number of

units stored underground and on the surface and their

locations, and how often SCSR refresher training is conducted.

The procedures for inspecting the units for damage and removing units with expired service life are reviewed. Any problems that the mine has experienced with SCSRs are noted.

FIRST RESPONDERS, FIRE BRIGADES,

AND MINE RESCUE

If a small fire is discovered by a miner with limited training

in extinguishing fires, the fire may continue to grow before

trained personnel arrive on the scene. First responders are the

first persons to initiate firefighting. It is important that these

miners be properly trained in the use of fire extinguishers and

water hoses and in firefighting procedures. They should also

know how to immediately and effectively communicate information about the emergency to other miners and key personnel so that they are aware of the situation.

Underground fire brigades or firefighters and mine rescue

teams are important elements in any mine's emergency response

plan. Fire brigades are composed of specially trained and

equipped miners that work at the mine site and can rapidly

respond to a fire. Mine operators most often rely on mine rescue teams to save lives during an underground emergency, such

as a fire, explosion, roof fall, or water innundation. It is
10

Figure 17.—Mine rescue teams fighting a conveyor belt

fire at Lake Lynn Laboratory.

extremely important that team members be provided with

adequate exploration equipment and that training simulations7

be conducted in a realistic manner [Conti et al. 1998b; Conti and

Weiss 1998; Conti et al. 1999]. Figure 17 shows rescue team

members fighting a conveyor belt fire in the surface fire gallery

at Lake Lynn Laboratory. The MFPRC examines the types of

firefighting training conducted. A series of questions is also

presented that deal with emergency response plans and duties

for miners during firefighting and evacuation. Appendix C

includes an example of an emergency response plan and a mine

fire training program divided into three areas: basic fire training

for all miners, intermediate fire training for mine fire brigades/

mine rescue, and advanced training for fire brigades/mine

rescue.

OTHER ISSUES

Other issues addressed by the MFPRC include ventilation,

housekeeping, evacuation plans, and specialized equipment.

Ventilation plans and ventilation training drills for various fires

that could occur in the mine are addressed. The housekeeping

section focuses on the removal and proper disposal of batteries,

hazardous waste, and excessive coal dust accumulations. Under

evacuation plans, the maintenance and identification of

escapeways and how often miners walk the entire escapeway

are discussed. The specialized equipment section deals with

turnout gear, SCBAs, specialized fire warning systems, and

motion sensors for firefighters and mine rescue teams.

GENERIC CHECKLISTS

Some mines have already developed extensive checklists

and procedures on specific topics to improve their state of

preparedness. MSHA reported that more than 20% of belt entry

fires during 1970-88 were caused by welding/cutting operations

[Luzik 1991]. To address this issue, some mines require a hot

work permit before any welding or cutting operations are done

(see appendix B, “Cutting/Welding Permit,” examples 1 and 2).

This permit requires certain safety checks before and after the

planned maintenance activity. Each permit is monitored by a

communications coordinator. Another way to decrease the

probability of a fire in a conveyor belt drive area due to coal

dust accumulations, defective equipment, etc., is to have beltline

checklist inspections. The checklist requires the examiners to

look for potential problem areas and available safety equipment.

Some mines cover the total belt drive area (roof, ribs, and floor)

with noncombustible material and hose down the area with

water once per shift.

Appendix B contains 34 generic examples of checklists and

safety procedures that can be used by a mine. These include

procedures to conduct annual fire hydrant and fire hose checks;

semiannual inspections of fire extinguishers and a monthly

checklist for high-expansion foam generators; first-aid supplies

for fire cars or safety trailers, and an emergency material skid; 

and functional tests of mine monitoring and fire suppression

systems.

SUMMARY

Preparedness is an essential element of any underground

mine's strategic plan in dealing with an unexpected fire. It is

important that the fire be detected in the incipient stage and that

well trained and fully equipped miners respond during that

crucial period. Time is a critical factor, and any delay may mean

serious injuries and the loss of the mine.

The NIOSH-developed underground coal mine fire preparedness and response checklist is a data collection

instrument for determining both the fire prevention and response

7Mine rescue team training is conducted at NIOSH-PRL's Safety

Research Coal Mine at Bruceton, PA, and Lake Lynn Experimental Mine

near Fairchance, PA. Additionally, MSHA's National Mine Health and

Safety Academy near Beckley, WV, provides training for first responders

and mine rescue teams.
11

capabilities at an underground coal mine. It encompasses conditions, procedures, and equipment that have frequently been

the primary or contributing cause of underground coal mine

fires. Areas that need to be strengthened are identified.

Current NIOSH research is aimed at further refinement and

field testing of the MFPRC. A similar checklist for metal/nonmetal mines is currently being developed. Mines participating

in this study can have their strengths and weaknesses defined.

In addition, there is less chance that problem areas might go undiscovered and not addressed. It also gives miners a chance to

share their experiences and gain from the experiences of others.

The checklist can also be used as a training aid for the mine,

e.g., to show miners and new hires how to check water

pressures at fire

hydrants or properly store and use a fire hose. The completed

checklist gives the mine an instant picture of its fire

preparedness and response capabilities. In a subsequent report,

the data collected at the mines participating in this study will be

analyzed.

An interactive computer program is also being considered

for development. Mine personnel would enter the requested

MFPRC data, and the program would rate the effectiveness of

their mine fire preparedness and response program. The highest

anticipated rating would be attained by a mine that matched all

or most of the requirements specified for a model mine by a

group of experts. Recommendations to improve the state of

preparedness would be listed.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors thank the following individuals at the NIOSH

Pittsburgh Research Laboratory for their contributions: William J. Wiehagen, Industrial Engineer, Robert W. Noll, Physical

Science Aide, and the following Twentymile Coal Co. employees

for their assistance during the initial field testing of the

checklist: Earl Almond, Rolland Barney, Dwaine Chesser, Jerry

Delay, John Garcia, Jim Grant, Andy Gustafson, David Hahn,

Butch Krump, Lee Norris, Clarence Reed, Dallas

 Reed, Alan Selch, and Rory Wilson, Fire Brigade/Mine Rescue

Team Members; Daryl Firestone and Jim Pogline, Safety Department; and R. Lincoln Derick, Technical Safety Manager.

The authors also thank mine personnel from Arch of Illinois,

Energy West Mining Co., MAPCO Coal, Inc., and Monterey

Coal Co., a division of Exxon, who participated in the field

testing.

REFERENCES

Baker RM, McDonald LB, Reid G, Duncan C [1981]. Reliability of

hand-portable fire extinguishers in the mineral industry. Alexandria, VA:

Allen Corp. of America. U.S. Bureau of Mines contract No. H0292011.

Conti RS [1994]. Firefighting resources and fire preparedness for

underground coal mines. Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of the Interior,

Bureau of Mines, IC 9410.

Conti RS [1995]. Inflatable partitions for high-expansion foam

generators. Min Eng 47(6):561-566.

Conti RS, Litton CD [1992]. Response of underground fire sensors:

an evaluation. Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau

of Mines, RI 9412.

Conti RS, Litton CD [1993]. Effects of stratification on carbon

monoxide levels from mine fires. In: Proceedings of the Sixth U.S. Mine

Ventilation Symposium. Littleton, CO: Society for Mining, Metallurgy,

and Exploration, Inc., pp. 489-494.

Conti RS, Weiss ES [1998]. Inflatable devices for combating

underground mine fires. In: Proceedings of Minesafe International 1998.

University of Witwatersrand, Republic of South Africa, pp. 388-393.

Conti RS, Chasko LL, Cool JD [1999]. An overview of technology

and training simulations for mine rescue teams. In: Proceedings of the

28th International Conference of Safety in Mines Research Institutes

(Sinaia, Romania). Vol. II, pp. 521-538.

Conti RS, Chasko LL, Pro RW [1998a]. Combating mine fires with

the aid of inflatable devices. In: Proceedings of the Second International

Conference on Fire Research and Engineering. Gaithersburg, MD: U.S.
12

Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and

Technology, pp. 441-449.

Conti RS, Chasko LL, Stowinsky LD [1998b]. Mine rescue training

simulations and technology. In: Proceedings of The International

Emergency Management Society (TIEMS) Conference 1998, pp. 453-

464.

Lazzara CP, Perzak FJ [1990]. Conveyor belt flammability studies.

In: Proceedings of the 21st Annual Institute on Coal Mining Health,

Safety, and Research (Blacksburg, VA, August 28-30, 1990), pp. 119-129.

Luzik SJ [1991]. Mine fire prevention response strategies.

Presented at the Annual Joint Meeting of SME/PCMIA, Meadowlands,

PA, October 31, 1991.

Mitchell DW [1996]. Mine fires: prevention, detection, fighting.

Chicago, IL: Maclean Hunter Publishing Co.

Morrow GS, Litton CD [1992]. In-mine evaluation of smoke

detectors. Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of

Mines, IC 9311.

Moser W [1993]. Mine emergency preparedness. In: Proceedings

of the SME Annual Meeting, preprint 93-53. Littleton, CO: Society for

Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc.

Strahin RA, Wolf DN, Pogue CW [1990]. Report of investigation,

mine fire, Marianna No. 58 (ID No. 36-00957), March 7, 1988. U.S.

Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration, March.

Vaught C, Fotta B, Wiehagen WJ, Conti RS, Fowkes RS [1996].

A profile of workers' experience and preparedness in responding to

underground mine fires. Pittsburgh, PA: U.S. Department of the Interior,

Bureau of Mines, RI 9584.
13

75.1100-1(a) - Waterlines shall be capable of delivering 50 gallons of water a minute at a nozzle

pressure of 50 pounds per square inch.

75.1100-1(b) - A portable water car shall be of at least 1,000 gallons capacity and shall have at

least 300 feet of fire hose with nozzles. A portable water car shall be capable of providing a

flow through the hose of 50 gallons of water per minute at a nozzle pressure of 50 pounds per

square inch.

75.1100-2(a) - Each working section shall be provided with two portable fire extinguishers and

240 pounds of rock dust in bags or other suitable containers; waterlines shall extend to each

section loading point and be equipped with enough fire hose to reach each working face. 

APPENDIX A.—NIOSH UNDERGROUND COAL MINE FIRE PREPAREDNESS

AND RESPONSE CHECKLIST

(Please feel free to photocopy.)

WATER SUPPLY

All text within a bordered box throughout appendix A represents language from 30 CFR.

C Is there a map of the water system? Yes No .

Where is the map located? 

 .

Who is the contact person? .

When was the map last updated? .

• Availability of mine water: Unlimited supply 

Reservoir Approximate gallons: .

 Other source Approximate gallons: .

• Do you have water cars? Yes No .

 If yes, what is the total number of water cars? .

Approximate gallons: .
14

• Quality of underground mine water: 

 Caustic Acidic pH level .

(A pH level >7 indicates caustic; <7 indicates acidic)

 Hardness mg/L (200 is normal for drinking water)

 Total dissolved solids (TDS) mg/L.

• If your water lines are in your beltline, please complete the following. If not, please explain:

 

 

 .

Is waterflow and airflow in the same direction on main water lines? 

Yes No .

If no, what precautions are used if smoke is outby a fire and you need water for firefighting?

 

 .

Is waterflow and airflow in the same direction on branch water lines?

Yes No Varies .

If no, what precautions are used if smoke is outby a fire and you need water for firefighting?

 

 .

• Are safety valves (shutoff ball valves) supplied, for example, if line is broken? Yes No 

Spacing of valves .
15

75.1100-2(b) - Belt conveyors. Waterlines shall be installed parallel to the entire length of belt conveyors

and shall be equipped with firehose outlets with valves at 300-foot intervals along each belt conveyor and

at the tailpieces. At least 500 feet of firehose with fittings suitable for connection with each belt conveyor

waterline system shall be stored at strategic locations along the belt conveyor. Waterlines may be

installed in entries adjacent to the conveyor entry belt as long as the outlets project into the belt conveyor

entry.

75.1100-2(c) - Haulage trucks. Waterlines shall be equipped with outlet valves at intervals of not more

than 500 feet, and 500 feet of firehose with fittings suitable for connection with such waterlines shall be

provided at strategic locations. Two portable water cars, readily available, may be used in lieu of

waterlines prescribed under this paragraph.

• Location of main water pump stations: Underground Surface None .

 If you have a main water pump station, indicate type:

Electrical Diesel Other .

• Type of backup systems: Pump Water Supply None .

If you have a pump-operated backup system, indicate type:

Electrical Diesel Other . 

• What is the spacing of your water hydrants/fire taps/hose drops/etc.? ft.

• Water hydrant size(s): in. 

Type of fitting: NST Pipe Other .

Approximate height of water hydrants from floor: ft. 

• Position of water hydrants outlet: Up Down Sideways Varies .

NOTE: Water hydrant outlets, etc., positioned downward collect sediment and must be flushed before

connecting water hoses.

Is the water pressure adjustable? Yes No .

If yes, do you have a written procedure to adjust the water hydrant pressure?

Yes No . 
16

Type of valve(s) on water hydrant: ball valve 10-turn valve 

Other Please explain: .

Can you use more than one hose at each manifold/hydrant?

Yes No . 

Please explain: .

• Are the locations of your water hydrants marked (examples: sign, painted rod)?

Yes No .

Type of marking: .

Location of markings: Near roof Center of entry Other .

Do these markings vary throughout the mine? Yes No . 

C Are the water hydrants marked in adjacent entries? Yes No .

If yes, how are they marked? .

Are the water hydrants accessible from adjacent entries? Yes No . 

• Approximately how much access room is there between rib and belt? (This is important when connecting water

lines and evacuating in smoky conditions):

(Note: 24-in minimum requirement.)

Main - Clearance between tight side of belt and rib: ft.

Clearance between wide side of belt and rib: ft.

Section - Clearance between tight side of belt and rib: ft.

Clearance between wide side of belt and rib: ft.
17

75.1103-11 - Each fire hydrant shall be tested by opening to insure that it is in operating condition, and

each fire hose shall be tested, at intervals not exceeding 1 year. A record of these tests shall be

maintained at an appropriate location. 

• Inspections are conducted every months. 

What are the procedures? 

 .

Are functional tests performed? Yes No . 

If yes, how? 

 .

Are written records maintained? Yes No . 

• Is water available in remote locations (areas not used)? Yes No .

If yes, what is the water pressure and flow in these areas?

 psig: gpm: 

If no, what method would be used to supply water to these locations? 

Pipe Hose Size(s) Other .

What would be the expected water pressure in these locations? psig.

• Can your compressed airline or any other pipe line (if you have them) be converted over to be used as water lines

during an emergency (for example, water in remote areas or failure of existing water lines)? Yes 

 No . 

If yes, how difficult or time-consuming is the conversion? 

 .

Do you have a conversion kit for this purpose? Yes No .
NOTE: When conducting the following tests, flush the water taps before connecting the water hose.

• Please complete the following table on main water lines.

MAIN WATER LINES

MAIN

WATER LINE

NAME

SIZE,

in SCHEDULE MATERIALTYPE

SAFE

OPERATING

PRESSURE,

psig

MEASURED WATERFLOW AT FIRE HYDRANTS 

TEST LOCATION 1 TEST LOCATION 2 TEST LOCATION 3

psig

gpm

psig

gpm

psig

gpm

Static Dynamic Static Dynamic Static Dynamic
NOTE: When conducting the following tests, flush the water taps before connecting the water hose.

• Please complete the following table on branch water lines.

BRANCH WATER LINES

BRANCH

WATER LINE

NAME

SIZE,

in SCHEDULE MATERIALTYPE

SAFE

OPERATING

PRESSURE,

psig

MEASURED WATERFLOW AT FIRE HYDRANTS 

TEST LOCATION 1 TEST LOCATION 2 TEST LOCATION 3

psig

gpm

psig

gpm

psig

gpm

Static Dynamic Static Dynamic Static Dynamic
20

75.1100-1(f)(1) - The fire hose shall be lined with a material having flame resistant qualities meeting

requirements for hose in Bureau of Mines’ Schedule 2G.

HOSES AND NOZZLES

• What procedures are used to store fire water hose? 

 

 .

Inspection intervals every months.

What are the procedures? 

 

 .

What is your procedure for damaged or deteriorated water hose (replaced/repaired)?

 .

Is testing according to NFPA 1962 Standard for the care, use, testing, and service of fire hose, including

couplings and nozzles? Yes No .

If no, what do you do? .
21

• Please complete the following table of fire nozzles:

FIRE NOZZLES

Total Number

Size,

in

Thread,

type

Pressure

rating,

psig

Expensive1Inexpensive2

Surface Underground

Surface Underground

Brass Plastic Brass Plastic

1Nozzle over $200 and fully adjustable.

2Nozzle under $50.
• Please complete the following table on fire water hoses:

FIRE WATER HOSES

Size,

in

Thread,

type

Material

Pressure

rating, 

psig

Total length, ft Location

Surface Underground Surface Underground
23

• Do you have couplers/reducers to attach nozzles to larger diameter water hose?

Yes No . 

• Please complete the following tables on water throw distance (recommend 100 ft minimum)

THROW DISTANCE - SOLID STREAM (MAIN BELTLINE)

Location Nozzle

type

Hose

size,

in

Entry

height, ft

Static

pressure,

psig

Throw

distance, ft

Dynamic

conditions

psig gpm

THROW DISTANCE - SOLID STREAM (BRANCH BELTLINE)

Location Nozzle

type

Hose

size,

in

Entry

height, ft

Static

pressure,

psig

Throw

distance, ft

Dynamic 

conditions

psig gpm
FOAM FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

• Do you have foam generators at your mine? Yes No .

If no, skip this section.

• Please complete the following table on foam generators:

TYPE OF FIREFIGHTING FOAM GENERATORS ON SITE

Location

Handheld Water-Powered Diesel-Powered Other 

Brand Expansion

Ratio

Total

Number Brand ExpansionRatio

Total

Number Brand Expansion Ratio

Total

Number Brand ExpansionRatio

Total

Number
25

• Can foam nozzles be used with your water lines or fire hose? Yes No . 

• Do you have the capability of using foam eductors? Yes No . 

• If foam concentrate is stored on the surface, is it protected from extreme weather

temperatures? Yes No . 

• Are the foam concentrate containers stacked according to the manufacturer’s 

recommendations? Yes No . 

• Is the foam concentrate in closed containers? Yes No .

• Do you inspect/test the foam concentrate? Yes No .

• Is your foam concentrate compatible with your mine water supply? Yes No .

If no, why? 

 .

• Is your foam equipment compatible with foam concentrate? Yes No .

If no, why? 

 .

• Do you have trained people to use foam equipment? Yes No . 

When was the last time this equipment was tested? 

 

 .

• If you have more than one brand of foam concentrate, have you tested the quality of foam production if brands are

mixed?

Yes No Only one brand used .

If yes, what were the results? 
26

 .

• Have you tested the foam generators in your mine? Yes No . 

If yes, what problems did you experience, if any? 

 .

• For example, if you were using a diesel-powered, high-expansion foam generator in an upward sloping entry, what

would you do to prevent the foam plug from rolling back over the foam generator?

Please explain: 

 .

• Do you have procedures for inspecting foam generators? Yes No . 

If yes, what are these procedures? 

 .
27

75.1100-3 - Condition and examination of firefighting equipment. All firefighting equipment shall be

maintained in a usable and operative condition. Chemical extinguishers shall be examined every 6

months and the date of the examination shall be written on a permanent tag attached to the extinguisher.

• Please complete the following table on foam concentrate:

FOAM CONCENTRATE

Foam

type

Storage Percent

concentrate

Total amount,

gal Surface Unit Underground Unit

If you run out of foam during an emergency, do you have a supplier? Yes No . 

• How long would it take to receive the foam? 

 .

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

• How often do you inspect fire extinguishers? Every months.

What are the procedures? 

 

 

 .
28

 

• Are you aware that if a fire extinguisher is not handled for extended periods of time, the dry chemical can settle and

compact?

Yes No .

• Are you aware that caking occurs when moisture contacts the dry chemical due to faulty gaskets and rusty

extinguishers?

Yes No .

• Are hydrostatic test dates of fire extinguishers and pressure vessels checked? 

Yes No .

• Do you realize the hazards of rusty fire extinguishers and pressure vessels?

Yes No .

What are they? 

 .

• Do you have a plan to handle damaged, partially used, and rusty fire extinguishers?

 Yes No .

What is done with rusty fire extinguishers (repair/replace)? 

 .

• Who removes defective extinguishers? 

 .

How is this handled? 

 

 .
29

75.1100-2(d) - Transportation. Each track or off-track locomotive, self-propelled mantrip car, or personnel

carrier shall be equipped with one portable fire extinguisher.

75.1100-2(e)(1) - Electrical installations. Two portable fire extinguishers or one extinguisher having at least

twice the minimum capacity specified for a portable fire extinguisher in 75.1100-1(e) shall be provided at

each permanent electrical installation [greater than 6 months].

75.1100-2(e)(2) - Electrical installations. One portable fire extinguisher and 240 pounds of rock dust shall

be provided at each temporary electrical installation [less than 6 months].

75.1100-2(g) - Welding, cutting, soldering. One portable fire extinguisher or 240 pounds of rock dust shall

be provided at locations where welding, cutting, or soldering with arc or flame is being done.

• Are your employees trained to identify defective fire extinguishers? Yes No .

• Are fire extinguishers exposed to mud or wash plant overflows? Yes No .

If yes, how are they protected (example: shields, storage boxes)? 

 

 .

• Are you prepared for on-site recharge of fire extinguishers? Yes No .

If yes, what is the number of on-site trained people to recharge fire extinguishers? .

Quantity of charged cartridges: 

Dry-chemical powder lb.

If no, what is the timeframe for acquiring new fire extinguishers or having an 

outside contractor recharge them? 

 

 .
30

• How do you protect rock dust stored underground from moisture? 

 

.
• Please complete the following table on fire extinguishers:

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS - UNDERGROUND

Location

Portable/stored Wheeled Skid

lb Total

Number

lb Total

Number

lbs Total

Number

 
• Please complete the following table on fire extinguishers:

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS - SURFACE

Location

Portable/stored Wheeled Skid

lb Total

Number

lb Total

Number

lb Total

Number
33

75.1101-23(a)(1)(ii) - Rapid assembly and transportation of necessary men, fire suppression equipment, and

rescue apparatus to the scene of the fire.

75.1100-2(i) - Emergency materials.

75.1713-7 - First-aid equipment; location; minimum requirements.

FIRE STATIONS

(Fire stations include cars, houses, trailers, boxes, foam generator trailers, sleds, etc.)

• Total number of fire stations: .

Locations: Underground Surface .

Are the stations easily transported to the fire area? Yes No .

If no, why? 

 

 

How are they transported? 

 

 .

Do they require special handling or components, like hitches?

Yes No .

What are the special handling requirements? 

 

 .
34

• Is the station equipped with a pager phone and extra wire? Yes No . 

• Do you have an up-to-date plastic laminated mine map with grease pencils located on the station? 

Yes No .

• Some mines utilize fire hose in various sizes (1.5- to 2.5-in-diam) or a lightweight high- volume (5- to 6-in-diam)

nonpolarized hose fitting. What size hose do you use on your station? 

 

 .

• A portable hose clamp is used to temporarily stop the waterflow in hoses to reduce delays caused by turning the

main water supply on or off if problems are encountered. Do you have a hose clamp on your station?

Yes No .

• Spanner wrenches are used to detach fire hoses and fittings (the wrenches are small and easily lost, so several

wrenches should be available). Do you provide spanner wrenches on your station?

Yes No .

• Do you provide special hose nozzles that are suitable for firefighters and are appropriate to use with the mine water

pressure and equipment? Yes No .

• Are booster pumps provided on the station to raise water pressure? Yes No .

If yes, enter the total number in the following categories:

Diesel Electric Other .

• Are regulators provided on the station to lower the water pressure? Yes No . 
35

• Is firefighting foam equipment and a supply of foam concentrate available on the station?

Yes No . 

• Type of foam equipment stored on the station? 

 .

How much foam concentrate is stored on the station? .

Where do you go if you run out of foam concentrate during an emergency? 

 .

How long would it take to retrieve it? .

• Are portable fire extinguishers available? Yes No .

• Is a supply of dry-chemical agent with replacement gas cartridges available?

Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Are wheeled or skid-mounted fire extinguishers provided on the station? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

 .

• Are various tools and supplies provided on these trailers/fire cars? Yes No .

What kinds of tools and supplies? 

 .
36

• Roof jacks may be necessary for temporary roof support. Are they provided on the

stations? Yes No . 

• Hydraulic pump jacks may be necessary to lift heavy objects. Are they provided on

the station? Yes No . 

• Are first-aid kits to treat minor burns and injuries provided? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Is personal protective clothing available for firefighters on the station? Yes No .

• Number of SCBAs (not SCSRs) provided on the station: .

Miscellaneous

• Total amount of rock dust provided on the station: . 

Is the rock dust protected from moisture? Yes No Sometimes .

Please explain: 

 .

• Does everyone know the location of these stations and procedures to be followed when moving to fire location?

 Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Who is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and using the stations? 

 .

How often is this inspection conducted? .
37

75.1103-1 - Automatic fire sensors. A fire sensor system shall be installed on each underground belt

conveyor. Sensors so installed shall be of a type which will (a) give warning automatically when a fire

occurs on or near such belt; (b) provide both audible and visual signals that permit rapid location of the

fire.

What constitutes an inspection? 

 

 .

Are records/logs kept? Yes No .

Location of records: 

 .

DETECTION SYSTEMS

FIRE SENSORS

Sensor type Location Total

number

Spacing,

ft

Vertical position

from floor, ft

• What is the CO background level if using diesel equipment? ppm.

• Manufacturer of CO system? .

Warning level ppm Alarm level ppm.
38

• Manufacturer of thermal system? .

Alarm level: EF

• Manufacturer of smoke sensor: .

• Manufacturer of diesel-discriminating sensor: .

• Is there battery backup in case of electrical failure? Yes No .

If yes, how much time? .

• Are there any unusual problems with the fire sensors? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Do you have a problem with false or nuisance fire alarms? Yes No . 

What is the frequency (number of false alarms per month)? 

 .

Where is the location of false alarms? .

What is the cause of false alarms? 

 .

• Do you have a hot work permit (welding/cutting)? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .
39

• Location of monitoring room? Aboveground 

 .

Other: 

 .

• Is the person in monitoring room trained in proper response to sensor alerts and alarms?

Yes No . What is the training? 

 

 .

• Is there a procedure for checking wire continuity, sensor function, cable clearance around moving machinery, etc.?

 Yes No . 

• Are these wires/cables redirected around areas that have a high potential for fire (for example, belt drives,

brake stations, etc.)? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Is the sensory element of the fire sensor oriented into the airflow (this is critical with only certain brands of sensors)?

 Yes No Varies . 

• Are there any moisture, electrical, or other problems with the sensors? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

.
40

75.1103-8 - Automatic fire sensor and warning device systems; inspection and test requirements.

• What are the intervals of functional tests (a complete test of the system from underground sensor to surface

computer)? .

• What are the calibration intervals? 

 .

• What kind of general training is provided for individuals who handle, install, and calibrate fire sensors?

 

 .

• What kind of training is provided, in general, to better acquaint all miners in the day-to-day operation of fire sensors

(for example, better communications when using equipment near sensors, welding/cutting operations, diesel

equipment, etc.)?

Please explain: 

 

 .

• What is the procedure to be followed if a miner smells or sees smoke underground? 

 

 .
41

75.1101-1 - Deluge-type water spray systems.

75.1101-5 - Installation of foam generator systems.

75.1101-6 - Water sprinkler systems; general.

75.1101-13 - Dry powder chemical systems; general.

• What kind of underground communication system do you have? 

 

 .

Where are the phone lines located? 

 .

Are phones and other communication cables protected from areas prone to fires? 

Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

• Do you have a specialized fire warning alarm system to alert all miners of an emergency?

Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

• Are functional tests of suppression systems performed? Yes No .

• Do you follow a checklist? Yes No .

What is the procedure? 

 .

Are records/logs kept? Yes No . 
42

How often are suppression systems checked? .

• Please complete the following table on suppression systems.

SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS UNDERGROUND

Location Water

deluge

High-expansion

foam Dry-chemical Water sprinkler

 

• When the water sprinkler system is activated, will the water spray cover the entire cross-section of the entry? Yes

 No . 

• Are water sprinkler heads changed? Yes No .

If yes, what is the time period? .

• Are shutoff valves normally left open? Yes No .

How do you ensure that the shutoff valves are open, and if they were closed during a fire, could they be

opened?

Please comment: 

 .

• How do you protect your water from freezing? 

 

.
43
44

• Who is responsible for maintaining the suppression systems? 

 .

What are the procedures? 

 .

Are records/logs kept? Yes No .

• Do you utilize water barriers (wall of water)? Yes No . 

If yes, please complete the following table on water barriers (wall of water).

WATER BARRIERS (WALL OF WATER)

Location Spacing

interval

No. of spray nozzles per

cross-section

Activation

temperature, °F

Waterflow,

gpm

• If water barriers (wall of water) are located in the belt entry, are they positioned in the middle of the block? Yes

 No N/A .

C Do you utilize water lances (pipe with water sprays that can be inserted through stoppings or doors downwind of

a fire)? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .
45

VENTILATION

• Is your mine fan a blowing or exhausting fan? .

• Can you reverse the direction of your fan? Yes No .

If no, could it be modified during an emergency? Please explain: 

 .

C Do you have a ventilation plan for various fire scenarios that could occur in your mine?

Yes No . Please explain: 

 .

C How many people are familiar with the ventilation plan? .

Please explain: 

 .

Do miners on each section know where the air comes from and where the air goes (for example, location of

fans, ventilation materials, etc.)? Yes No .

C Do you conduct training exercises to show how to ventilate (for example, battery fire, belt fire)? 

Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

Do all miners participate in these drills? Yes No .

C Do you isolate your haulage road from the beltline? Yes No .

C Would you split your intake air before inby miners are out of the mine during a fire? 

Yes No .
46

Please explain: 

 .

C Is someone knowledgeable about the mine’s ventilation system if changes are to be made (for example, where to

dump the air)? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

C Do all workers understand their role in implementing the fire ventilation plan if there is a fire in their section? Yes

 No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Is each section provided with a one-page write-up (bullet form) on how to respond to inby and outby fires (for

example, procedures to be followed for an inby belt fire)? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .
47

Title 30, Chapter I, Subchapter B—Testing, Evaluation, and Approval of Mining Products

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS UNDERGROUND

COAL CHARACTERISTICS (IN-PLACE)

Coalbed mined

Coal rank1

Moisture 2, %

Volatile matter2, %

Fixed carbon2, %

Ash2, %

Sulfur

Organic, %

Pyritic, %

Sulfate

Heating value, Btu per pound

1For example, high-volatile A bituminous.

2From proximate coal analyses, as-received values.

If you utilize conveyor belting, please complete the following table on conveyor belt.

CONVEYOR BELT

Belt characteristics

Location

Brand/type Width, in Ply MSHA No. Length, ft

 
48

• What is the clearance between the floor and the bottom of conveyor belting? 

 .

• If ventilation tubing is used, what is the MSHA approval number? .

What is the diameter? in.

What is the thickness? in. 

Type . 

What is the total length used underground? ft.

• Do you use meshing for roof and rib control? Yes No . 

Wire mesh Plastic mesh . If plastic, approximate square feet .

C Do you use plastic resin roof bolts? Yes No .
 • Please complete the following table on combustible materials stored or used underground:

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS STORED OR USED UNDERGROUND

Material Quantity Unit

Toxic level due to burning Special precautions

(above and beyond MSHA regulations)

Low Medium High Fires Explosions

Brattice

Conveyor belting

Diesel fuel (storage and vehicles)

Electrical cables

Fluids (emulsion)

Fluids (hydraulic)

Grouting

Oils

Plastic piping

Roof bolt resins

Lumber (untreated)

Lumber (treated)

Tires (on equipment)

Ventilation tubing

Oxygen

Acetylene

Propane
50

HOUSEKEEPING

• Do you have any surface hazards that can affect the underground mine (for example, propane storage tanks)? Yes

 No . 

Please list: 

 

 .

C Do you store compressed gas cylinders underground? Yes No . 

If yes, how and where do you store compressed gas cylinders? 

 

 

 .

C Do you have a battery disposal program? If yes, please explain: 

 

 .

C Are old batteries removed from the underground mine? Yes No .

• How do you handle hazardous waste, such as antifreeze, emulsion oil, etc.? 

 

 .

• How do you handle underground fuel spills (for example, diesel fuel)? 

 

 .
51

• What is done with underground trash? 

 .

• Are your crosscuts, with mandoors, free of obstructions, such as mine materials, equipment, etc.? 

Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

• Are your crosscuts or areas used to store emergency equipment free of obstructions?

Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

• Do miners have an opportunity to assess their work area and personal protective equipment?

Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 

 .

• How do you control the buildup of excess coal dust on beltlines? 

 

 .

• What procedures are used to inspect and dispose of residue from belt and V-plow scrappers? 

 

 .
52
53

75.380 - Escapeways; bituminous and lignite mines.

75.384 - Longwall and shortwall travelways.

75.1101-23(a) - Each operator of an underground coal mine shall adopt a program for the instruction of all

miners in the location and use of fire fighting equipment, location of escapeways, exits, and routes of

travel to the surface, and proper evacuation procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency.

How many belt scrapers do you have underground? .

How many V-plow scrapers do you have underground? .

• What procedures are used to reduce belt thread buildup? 

 .

• Are your belt drive areas covered with a noncombustible material? Yes No .

• Are your power center areas covered with a noncombustible material? Yes No . 

• Are your charging station areas covered with a noncombustible material? Yes No . 

• What is done to control the caking of rock dust and coal dust on sprinkler heads? 

 

 .

EVACUATION PLANS

• Do you incorporate your evacuation plan in your drills? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

• How often do miners walk the escapeway? 

 .
54

75.1714(a) - Each operator shall make available to each miner who goes underground, and to visitors

authorized to enter the mine by the operator, an approved self-rescue device or devices which is

adequate to protect such person for 1 hour or longer. 

Do miners walk the entire escapeway or just part of the way? 

 .

• How much time is required to walk the escapeway from the section to the portal?

 .

• How do you maintain your escapeways?

Please explain: 

 .

• How are your escape routes identified? .

Are they identifiable in smoke? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

SELF-CONTAINED SELF-RESCUERS (SCSRs)

• What brand and model of SCSR is used at the mine? (If more than one type, please list all.)

 .

C How often is refresher training conducted? . . 

• How many SCSRs are stored underground?

Total number: MSA CSE Ocenco 

 Draeger Other 
55

Where are your underground SCSR caches located? 

 .

• How many SCSRs are stored on the surface?

Total number: MSA CSE Ocenco 

Draeger Other 

C How are SCSRs with expired service life removed from service?

Please explain: 

 .

What is done with these units? 

 .

Are records/logs kept of these units? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

Are serial numbers recorded? Yes No . 

C How are these units tracked after they are taken underground?

Please explain: 

 .

C Are units visually inspected for damage? Yes No .

How often? .

Who inspects them? Please explain: 

 

 .
56
57

75.1101-23 - Program of instruction; location and use of fire fighting equipment; location of escapeways,

exits and routes of travel; evacuation procedures; fire drills.

C What is done with damaged units? 

 

 .

Are records kept of inspections and removal of damaged units? Yes No .

C Does your mine participate in NIOSH’s Long-Term Field Evaluation Program?

Yes No .

Date of last replacement: .

Total number of units replaced: .

C Has your mine experienced any problems with SCSRs? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

FIRST RESPONDERS TO FIRE1

• How often are fire drills conducted? 

 .

• What kind of training is conducted for miners responding to a fire? 

 

 .

1First responders are the first persons to initiate firefighting.
58

• Who conducts training? 

 .

If outside vendor/consultant, please list: 

 .

• What kind of firefighting equipment is used in training?

Extinguishers Fire hose Fire suppression systems 

Foam generators Other (please explain) .

• During training, are real fires extinguished? Yes No .

If yes, describe fire scenario: 

 .

• How often is fire training conducted? 

 .

• Is smoke training conducted? Yes No .

If yes, describe scenario: 

 

 .

Type of apparatus used: 

 .

• What type of training is conducted for SCSRs or filter self-rescuers? 

 

 .
59

• Do miners have specific duties if there is a fire on their section? Yes No . 

If yes, what are their duties for the section? 

 

 .

What are their duties if they are outby? 

 .

• What percentage of miners are trained in first aid? %. 

• Do you have a standard operating procedure (SOP) for first person to respond to a fire?

Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

How many miners are trained overall? .

• How many per section? .

• Do you have an agreement for assistance from the local fire department, for example, fighting surface fires or the

use of fire hose and water? Yes No .

What precautions are taken (on-site training, liability)? 

 

 .

• Do you have a mutual agreement with other mines to fight fires? Yes No . 

If yes, do you train together, etc.? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .
60

FIRE BRIGADES

C Do you have a fire brigade? Yes No . (If no, skip this section.)

• How many teams do you have? . 

How many members per team? . 

• How are members selected? 

 .

• What are the criteria for being on the fire brigade? 

 

 .

• How often do fire brigade members train? 

Describe training: 

 

 .

• Do fire brigade members train with the mine rescue team members? Yes No .

• Do you provide your fire brigade with specialized equipment? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• How much time is required for the fire brigade team to muster and respond to an underground fire?

 

 .
61
62

49.2 - Availability of mine rescue teams.

This amount of time depends on what? 

 .

• Do you have an SOP for the fire brigade? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 

 .

• Has your team ever participated in an actual mine emergency? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

MINE RESCUE

• If you have mine rescue teams, how many teams do you have? .

How many members per team? How many members per shift? .

C If you do not have a team, how are you covered? .

• What are the criteria for being on the mine rescue team? 

 

 .

• How often do mine rescue team members train? 

 .
63

Describe training: 

 

 .

• If you have more than one team, is cross-training provided? Yes No N/A .

• Has your team ever trained with your State mine rescue teams? Yes No .

• Do mine rescue team members train with the fire brigade members? Yes No .

• Do you provide your mine rescue team with specialized equipment? Yes No . 

Please explain: 

 .

• How much time is required for the mine rescue team to muster and respond to an underground fire?

 .

• Do you have an SOP for mine rescue? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .

• Has your team ever participated in an actual mine emergency? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 

 .

SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT

• What type of turnout gear do you have? 

 .
64
65

Total number: Where are they stored? 

 .

Do personnel have easy access to it? Yes No . 

• What types of SCBAs do you have? 

 .

Please enter the total number of units:

30-min 60-min 4-hr Other 

Location: 

 .

Explain your SCBA preventive maintenance program: 

 

 .

Are records/logs kept? Yes No .

C Do you have extra tanks of air? Yes No . 

• Do you have the capabilities of charging your own tanks? Yes No .

If yes, is your system a cascading system? Yes No .

• Do you provide motion sensors for team members? Yes No . 

• Do you have infrared devices or thermal imaging cameras for locating hot spots, fires, or missing

 miners? Yes No .

Please explain: 

 .
66

• What is your team’s communication system? 

 

 

 .

• Other comments: 

 

 

 

 .
67

APPENDIX B.—EXAMPLES OF INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE, AND GENERAL

HOUSEKEEPING CHECKLISTS AND PROCEDURES

ANNUAL HYDRANT CHECKS

30 CFR 75.1103-11

1. Checked with Conflow fire hydrant setting bend:

a. Unlock the presetting dome by loosening the three set screws with an Allen wrench. Rotate presetting

dome by hand in a clockwise direction all the way out.

2. Connect the presetting bend onto the hydrant outlet using a 1.5-in pipe thread to NST thread adapter.

3. Use the 0.5-in presetting bend nozzle.

4. Use caution when applying pressure flow through the 0.5-in nozzle. Hold the nozzle tightly, directing the

waterflow in a harmless direction so as not to hurt yourself or someone in the area or to cause damage to

equipment.

5. Open the hydrant with the handwheel until the flow gauge is registering 120 psig.

6. Rotate the presetting dome by hand in an anticlockwise direction until it can move no further.

7. Lock the presetting dome in this position by tightening the three set screws.

8. Double-check the psi setting by opening the handwheel as far as possible; the flow gauge should read 120 psi.

9. Remove the presetting bend and adapter from the hydrant and replace hydrant cap.

10. Punch tag in proper place. 
68

ANNUAL FIRE HOSE CHECKS

30 CFR 75.1103-11

1. Designated fire hose storage area consists of the following:

a. Ten 50-ft hoses are donut-rolled and placed in a blue 55-gal plastic barrel with two pogo poles taped with

red and white reflective tape. There is a white sign with red reflective letters stating “fire hose.”

b. Two brass fire hose nozzles screwed on a gated Y are placed on top of the hoses, which are stored in the

barrel.

2. Hose spacing

a. Main north travelway - every 1,000 ft.

b. Panel section - every 2,000 ft or less, in an X-cut on the belt side of No. 2 entry. If muddy or wet

conditions exist on the belt side, the hose is placed on the uphill side. Both sides are on intake air.

c. If a belt drive is between this 2,000-ft spacing, then another barrel of hose is placed there.

3. Hose testing

a. Every hose is pulled out of the rack or reel and checked for leaks. If a hose is found to have any kind of

leak, even a pinhole, the hose is replaced (cut both ends off of hose and discard).

b. The 50-ft hoses have a pressure check of 400 psi. To obtain that kind of pressure, a direct hookup to

the water line is used. A gated valve and pipe with a pressure gauge are connected to the gated Y where

the hoses are hooked up and laid out for testing. The hoses are laid out flat and the nozzles are opened

slightly to prevent a water hammer. The water is turned on and the nozzles are closed after water flows

through the nozzles. The water has pressure readings of 400 psi, and the water is left on for 2 min to

check for leaks. The rating on the 100-ft hose found in some safety trailers is 250 psi; that is the pressure

at which they are checked.
69

ANNUAL FIRE HOSE TESTS

SITE LOCATION

DATE TESTS WERE COMPLETED:

HOSE LOCATION HOSE

LENGTHS

LENGTHS

TESTED

PRESSURE

USED COMMENTS, DEFECTS, ETC.
70

MONTHLY CHECKS ON FOAM GENERATOR

In a toolbox on the foam generator, there is a notebook that contains a complete listing of various items that should

be on the generator. There are also a series of tests and checks to be made. After completing the inventory list and

making the necessary series of checks and tests, the person that does these checks signs his or her name and states

if anything is missing or wrong with the generator. If anything is missing or wrong with the generator, it must be

reported to management and corrected immediately. 

Items on, or tests to be made on, foam generator.

1. Check oil

2. Check fuel

3. Start generator

4. Check cage (for dents, punctures, etc.)

5. Check tires

6. Wheel chocks (3)

7. Six 2.5-in red rubber hoses

8. Seven 1.5-in cloth hoses

9. Fifteen 3-in cloth (400-psi) hoses in racks

10. One crank handle for starting the engine

11. One pressure reducer valve

12. One gang valve

13. One hose clamp

14. Two bull hoses

15. One fire extinguisher

16. Two 30-gal barrels of foam concentrate

17. Ax

18. Eight 4-in Vic couplers

19. Eight pogo sticks

20. Two sand bags

21. One diesel can, 2.5 gal full

22. One can spads

23. One can buttons

24. One 4-ft spad gun

25. One 6-ft ladder

26. One bow saw

27. Two shovels (one spade, one blunt end)

28. One pick

30. Four rolls brattice cloth

31. Two telephones (test system)

32. One 8-lb sledge hammer

33. One hitch

34. Approximately 300 ft telephone cable

35. Extra crank handle mounted on side of hose

rack

 
71

Items in tool box:

 1. Three 24-in pipe wrenches

 2. One 18-in pipe wrench

 3. Two 0.5-in drive ratchets

 4. Two 1-1/16-in (0.5-in drive) sockets

 5. One wire brush

 6. Two Akron nozzles

 7. Various nozzles, fittings, and couplers

 8. Foam generator instruction manual

 9. Two 12-in crescent wrenches

10. One 8-in crescent wrench

11. One 6-in crescent wrench

12. One spanner wrench

13. One set Allen wrenches

14. One 460 channel lock pliers

15. Two 2.5-lb hammers

16. One claw hammer

17. Three 6-in Vic couplers

18. One 2-in Vic couplers

19. One 1.25-in (0.5-in drive) socket

20. One 6- to 4-in Vic reducer

21. One extra bow saw blade

22. One funnel and 1-in hose

23. Functional test overhead door (manual and

electrical)

24. Annually drain and refill fuel tank and diesel can

LOCATION: 

DATE: 

EXAMINER: 

 

FOAM GENERATOR TESTING PROCEDURES

 1. Measure line pressure at manifold 

(should be between 114 and 200 psi) (pressure)

 2. Set inductor into 5 gal of fresh water 

(should have tapered end with screen) (check)

 3. Check foam inductor setting to ensure that it is 

locked into position 1 (setting)

(other settings for different foam,

not for different flow characteristics) 

(locked in position)

 4. Start generator by simulating short circuit 

(check)
BRATTICE CURTAIN FOR FOAM GENERATOR
MONTHLY SURFACE FIRE EXTINGUISHER CHECKLIST

STATION

NO.

MAIN

LOCATION SUBLOCATION ID EXTINGUISHERNO. SIZE MFG HYDROSTATICALLYTESTED DATE BY COMMENTS
BIANNUAL UNDERGROUND FIRE EXTINGUISHER CHECKLIST

COUNTER LOCATION MCC# SIZE MFG HYDROSTATICALLY

TESTED DATE COMMENTS
75

6-MONTH FIRE EXTINGUISHER INSPECTION

30 CFR 75.1100-3

1. Visual inspection

a. Check for dents, rust, corrosion, welds.

b. Check indicator button. If it is up, you must

discharge any remaining pressure in a safe

direction.

2. Remove CO2 cartridge - weigh (must be

within 0.25 oz of stamped weight).

3. Check rubber washer in CO2

 cartridge seat. 

It must be intact and without cracks.

4. Check seal on CO2

 cartridge, and make sure

that it is not punctured.

5. Work puncture device to ensure smooth

operation.

6. Open lid on cylinder and make sure that

there is adequate chemical.

a. Add chemical, if necessary.

b. Work red indicator button up and down

to ensure that it works properly.

c. Make sure rubber seal is in place on

underside of lid.

7. Activate hose handle. Some chemical

should come out of hose. If not, turn unit

upside down and loosen chemical by

pounding unit on cap board.

8. Once these steps are taken and everything

checks out:

a. Place red tie around hose and through

pin, tie a knot, and clamp on white Ansul

clip.

b. Punch metal tag in appropriate spot. If

tag is used up or missing, replace with a

new one.

9. Then enter extinguisher number on the list, fill

in appropriate date and location. Also, initial

each row that you do.

10. If extinguisher has been discharged, it is

immediately removed from service from that

area and another fresh checked extinguisher

will be placed there. The discharged

extinguisher is taken outside to the foam

generator where the hose is disconnected

from the extinguisher and blown completely

out by compressed air. The

monoammonium phosphate is replaced, and

a complete check is done on the extinguisher

as stated above.
76

EXTINGUISHER MOUNTING LOCATIONS

Equipment Location

Track jeeps On floor, trolley side between seats

Diesel mantrips - 6 man Inside cab right side of transmission shifter

- 8 man Operator side rear fender well

- 4 man Inside cab right side of transmission shifter

Diesel trucks Mounted to cab behind driver

Tugs Left inside cab support leg in front of operator seat

Battery scoop Operator side rear cubbyhole

Shield haulers Left inside cab support leg in front of driver seat

Diesel scoop Left inside cab support leg in front of driver seat

Diesel duster Left inside cab support leg in front of driver seat

New style service center Operator side behind cab mounted to grid steel

Old style service center Cap support driver side front fender

Propane carts Right-hand side opposite tank

Oxygen-acetylene carts Back side of axle housing (horizontally)

Track roadmotors Right inside rear wall of cab

NOTE: Bracket No. 40-03-0185 

 

 
77

TRAILER-MOUNTED ANSUL 150C FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

1. Location:

a. Main North travelway between No. 2 and No. 3 entry at 46 and 61 crosscut and in No. 4 entry on

MS travelway at 20 crosscut.

b. Surface locations: tipple, weld shop, between shop and compressor, and extras east of light-duty bay.

2. Consist of:

a. One cylinder holding 125 lb of Foray multipurpose dry-chemical agent

b. One nitrogen bottle

c. Hose with nozzle

d. One hitch used to move unit where needed
FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT FIRE AUDIT REPORT

 Date 

Main location Location Condition Comments Checked by
79

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES (EXAMPLE 1)

FIRST-AID BOX CHECKLIST

Location Date Names 

 Minimum quantity Quantity needed

1-in by 3-in Band Aid ....................... 50 each 

Fingertip Band Aid ......................... 50 each 

Knuckle Band Aid .......................... 50 each 

2-in by 2-in bandage ........................ 8 (2 boxes) 

4-in by 4-in bandage ........................ 8 (8 boxes) 

24-in by 72-in bandage ...................... 1 each 

4-in by 6-yd dressing ....................... 1 each 

Triangular bandage ......................... 15 each 

Tourniquet ................................ 2 each 

Burn compound ............................ 1 box 

Ammonia inhalants ......................... 1 box 

Merthiolate ............................... 1 box 

Eye wash ................................. 2 boxes 

Ice pack .................................. 2 each 

Scissors .................................. 1 pair 

Tape ..................................... 1 roll 

Disposable exam glove ..................... 2 each 

Folding stretcher .......................... 1 each 

Folding back board ......................... 1 each 

Spider straps .............................. 1 set 

Woolen blanket ............................ 2 each 

Disposable blanket ......................... 1 each 

Sam splints ............................... 2 each 

Board splints .............................. 1 set 

Air splints

 Full arm ................................ 2 each 

 Full leg zippered ......................... 1 each 

 Half leg zippered ......................... 1 each 

Sager traction splint ........................ 1 each 

Oral airway ............................... 1 set 

Non-rebreathing mask ...................... 1 each 

Pocket mask .............................. 1 each 

Oxygen mask .............................. 1 each 

Oxygen bottle/regulator/wrench .............. 1 each 
80

Stiff neck collars

 Short ................................... 1 each 

 Regular ................................. 1 each 

Tall ...................................... 1 each 

 No-neck ................................ 1 each 

Soft neck collars ........................... 1 each 

BP cuff .................................. 1 each 

Stethoscope ............................... 1 each 

Glucose .................................. 1 each 
81

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES (EXAMPLE 2)

NOTICE

To help keep the large first-aid box adequately supplied at all times, we ask that you please obtain basic first-aid

supplies from this small first-aid box. Below is a “minimum quantity” list of the supplies contained in this sma

first-aid box. You may wish to add additional items. Please feel free to do so. If this box becomes depleted,

please bring it to the safety/facility technicians, who will either refill or replace.

SMALL FIRST-AID BOX SUPPLY LIST

Minimum

Item quantity

1-in by 3-in Bandits ............... 50 each

Fingertip Bandits ................. 50 each

Knuckle Bandits .................. 50 each

2-in by 2-in bandage ............ 8 (2 boxes)

4-in by 4-in bandage ............ 2 (2 boxes)

Minimum

Item quantity

Burn compound (Folie) .............. 1 box

Merthiolate ........................ 1 box

Eye wash ........................ 2 boxes

Ice packs ......................... 2 each

Adhesive tape ................ 1 roll or box

The idea here is to keep the large first-aid box properly supplied, clean, and organized for use in the event of a

critical emergency. For your reference, a list is attached to the outside of the large first-aid box identifying the

supplies it contains. Your cooperation is appreciated by all of your coworkers.
82

EMERGENCY MATERIAL SKIDS

These skids are located at 30 crosscut MN TW and at 10 or 11 of section on the high side.

 1. One skid to store and haul material

 2. One chain used to help in hauling

 3. 1,000 board ft of brattice board

 4. Two rolls of brattice cloth

 5. Two bow saws

 6. Three claw hammers

 7. 25 lb of 8d nails

 8. 25 lb of 10d nails

 9. 25 lb of 16d nails

10. Two shovels

11. One bundle of wedges

12. Twelve capboards

13. Four timbers

14. Five 5-gal buckets of Celtite (10 - 15c)

15. Four bags of rock dust

16. One ax

17. Six pogo sticks

18. One pointed trowel

19. One rectangular finishing trowel

20. One rectangular patching trowel
83

FIRE AUDIT FORM

EMERGENCY MATERIALS CHECKLIST FOR FIRE TRAM

DATE:

( ) 112 Kennedy metal stopping panels with associated head sills and twist clamps

( ) 24 Kennedy stopping rib angles

( ) 3 rolls of tape

( ) 3 twist tools

( ) 3 stopping jacks

( ) 3 picks

( ) 3 shovels

( ) 9 buckets of Celtite 10 - 12 Airtite (or equivalent material for stopping construction)

( ) 5 tons of rock dust
84

SURFACE FIRE BRIGADE TRAILER CONTENTS

A utility trailer with a trailer hitch will be located east of the administration building. The trailer will contain th

following supplies and will be connected to an electrical receptacle to provide power to a heater and emergency

light. The trailer is to be disconnected from the power source before moving it to the fire location. All surface

vehicles, except the heavy equipment service truck, will have two 5/16 ball hitches for transporting the trailer. I

addition, the 930 and 945 endloaders will be equipped to transport the trailer during inclement weather.

BREATHING APPARATUS

• Four Draeger PA-80-4,500 1-hr breathing apparatus

• Five spare compressed air cylinders

BUNKER GEAR

• 12 complete sets including fire repel firefighter coat and turnout bib pants, protective hood, firefighter glove

fire dome helmet

• 12 red carrying bags for bunker gear

FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT

• 300 ft of 2.5-in NST fire hose

• 400 ft of 1.75-in IPT fire hose

• Two 25-ft rolls of 4-in supply line fire hose

• Three H-VPGI nozzles, 1.5-in IPT

• One H-VPGI nozzle, 2.5-in NST

• One flowmeter, 1.5-in IPT

• One Elkhart 241-95 in-line foam eductor

• Two 5-gal pails of multipurpose foam; additional foam is located in the warehouse

• Two-gated wye, 2.5 in to 1.5 in

• Seven fire extinguishers

Four 20-lb fire extinguishers

One 30-lb fire extinguisher

One CO2 fire extinguisher

One 150-lb wheel unit

• Four combination hydrant/spanner wrenches

• Six spanner wrenches

• One fire ax

• Two pike poles
85

• One hose clamp

• Four firefighting brooms

• Three water vests

ONE 6,000-WATT WINCO GENERATOR

• Four 500-watt mounted quartz lights (outside trailer)

ONE HAZMAT BOOK

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES

• One trauma kit

• First-aid kit

• One ked extrication device

• Four blankets

TOOLS

• Two boxes of tools

• One 12-in crescent wrench for natural gas shutoff

• Three electric extension cords

• Regular wood saw

• Regular broom for cleaning trailer
86

UNDERGROUND FIRE BRIGADE SKID CONTENTS

Firefighting Supplies

Firefighting Supply Box

 1. 1 each - Three-way manifold (5-in Storz to 2.5-in NST)

 2. 3 each - Adapter (2.5-in NST to 1.5-in NPSH)

 3. 1 each - Adapter (5-in Storz to 4-in Victaulic fitting)

 4. 1 each - Vari-X foam generator

 5. 1 each - On/off valved pistol grip

 6. 6 each - 5-gal VEE foam buckets

 7. 4 each - Storz spanner wrenches

 8. 2 each - Task Force tip nozzles (one with pistol grip)

 9. 2 each - 1.5-in spanner wrench

10. Tools to open a stopping between the belt entry and the adjacent intake entry (30 CFR 75.1103-9(a)(2)

 requirement):

• 1 each - Dutch head

• 1 each - Ax

• 1 each - Track Shovel

• 1 each - Omega Block Saw

• 1 each - 500-ft roll of 0.25-in rope

• 1 each - tool bag with:

4-in screwdriver Claw hammer

6-in screwdriver Brass hammer

8-in crescent wrench First-aid kit

10-in crescent wrench S hooks

12-in crescent wrench 16 penny nails

15-in crescent wrench Rolls of tape

Hacksaw Bucket lid opener

• 2 each - 14-in pipe wrenches

Fire Hose Box

(30 CFR 75.1103-9(a)(1) requirement):

 1. 4 each - 100-ft lengths hi-volume 5-in Storz fire hose

 2. 2 each - 25-ft lengths hi-volume 5-in Storz fire hose

 3. 1 each - 50-ft length hi-volume 5-in Storz fire hose

 4. 12 each - 50-ft lengths 1.75-in NPSH fire hose

Open Storage

 1. 240 lb of rock dust (30 CFR 75.1103-9(a)(3) requirement) in six buckets

 2. Two rolls thick curtain
87

MATERIALS LIST FOR MINE RESCUE EMERGENCY

G Mine rescue clothes and mine boots

G Spare change of clothes

G Hard hats

G Mine belts with name tags

G Cap lamps

G Apparatus for each member and two spare apparatus

G Extra canisters or BG4 training canisters with extra filters and DraegerSorb

G RZ tester and tools

G Spare part for apparatus

G Antifog

G Leak-Tec

G Apparatus bench procedures manual

G Turnout gear

G Nomex gloves and hood

G Firefighter helmet

G Extra O2 bottles

G Rescue rope and bands

G Aprons with chalk

G Thumping sticks

G Hammers and nails

G Spad guns

G Spads and washers

G Gas instrument

G Chargers and extra batteries

G Map boards with equipment

G Two stretchers

G Four fire extinguishers

G Two blankets

G One Exotecter

G Two magnehelic gauges with tubing and pipe

G Two sets of communication headphones

G One 1,000-ft length of sound-powered cable with reel

G One emergency procedures manual

G EMT materials from competition list and two burn kits

G One basket stretcher

G Two mine rescue radios with batteries and chargers

G Gas sampling bags, syringes, etc.

G Rescue ropes and harness

G Four fire lances
88

SAFETY TRAILER LOCATIONS

1. Position of safety trailers

All safety trailers are located in the kitchen or x-cut across the kitchen. In the longwall, it is located in front of 

transformer. The only exception may be when a section is being developed, and the safety trailer will be found 

the Main travelway.

2. Contents of safety trailer

a. Five 100-ft fire hoses stored in a rack; some trailers have 55-gal barrels with 10- to 50-ft hoses

b. One 5121 Akron nozzle placed on end of last fire hose

c. One wheeled Ansul model 150 containing 125 lb of Foray multipurpose dry-chemical agent, one

nitrogen bottle, and a hose with a nozzle

d. One hitch used to haul trailer

e. Four sets of bunker gear

f. One scoop stretcher

g. One portable potty

h. One first-aid box with oxygen

i. Twelve SCSRs in metal box 
89

FIRE PROTECTION AND FIREFIGHTING STANDARDS

1. Foam generators

a. Each mining complex shall have a trailer-mounted high-expansion foam generator stored on or near th

surface.

b. Each foam generator shall be equipped with 500 ft of #2 G-GC cable and is to have on hand another

1,500 ft of the same cable to reach remote power sources.

c. Items to be stocked with the generator are:

• 500 ft of 2.5-in fire hose with 2.5-in NH thread

• 500 ft of 2-in fire hose with 2-in NPT threads and two nozzles with adaptors

• A manifold with four 2-in NPT outlets for fire hoses or for the foam generator, with a 4-in by 6-in

reducer (Victaulic)

• Eight 4-in by 4-in by 10-ft posts

• 1-in by 4-in lumber (or equivalent) (250 board ft)

• Hammer and nails (8d, 16d, and roofing nails)

• One roll of brattice

• Spad gun, spads, and washers

• Twenty 5-gal cans of foam concentrate

2. Firefighting storage stations

a. Per 30 CFR 75.1100-2(i), emergency materials that shall be stored, not exceeding 2 miles from each

working section, are:

• 1,000 board ft of brattice boards

• Two rolls of brattice cloth

• Two handsaws

• 25 lb of 8d nails

• 25 lb of 10d nails

• 25 lb of 16d nails

• Three claw hammers

• 25 bags of wood fiber plaster or 10 bags of cement (or equivalent material for stoppings)

• 5 tons of rock dust
90

The following items shall be stored at central warehouse, boxed and ready:

• 500 board ft of 1-in lumber

• Three spad guns 

• One can of spads

• One box spad washers

• One box 16d nails

• One box 8d nails

• Six carpenter hammers

• Six rolls brattice

• Six boxes rigipak foam

• Three axes

• Three handsaws

• Twenty-four 4-in by 4-in adjustable posts with bolts and nuts

• Five 100-ft lengths of 2-in fire hose with 2-in NPT threads

• Two fire nozzles

• Ten roof jacks, ratchet-type aluminum

• Four shovels

• 300 framing boards, 1 in by 4 in by 10 ft (or equivalent) (1,000 board ft)

• One bundle each cap pieces and wedges

• Four 30-lb fire extinguishers

• Two 10-lb sledge hammers

• Two trimming bars

• One pick

• Four 2-in fire hydrants

• One 24-hr supply of high-expansion foam

b. The following items shall be stored at each mine on the surface, boxed and ready:

• Five 100-ft lengths of 2-in fire hose with 2-in NPT threads

• Two fire nozzles

• One spad gun

• One box spad washers

• Two claw hammers

• One box 8d nails

• One box 16d nails

• One ax

• Two rolls brattice

• Two 30-lb fire extinguishers

• Two 1.5-in pipe nipples

• Two 2-in pipe nipples

• Two 2-in to 1.5-in bell reducers

• Two large water pump pliers
91

• One 2-in fire hydrant valve

• Two 12-in pipe wrenches

• One scaling bar

• Two pocket knives

• One pick

• Four 2-in fire hydrants

• One manifold with four 2-in outlets

Emergency material to be kept on each miner section:

• Two portable fire extinguishers (20 lb minimum)

• 240 lb of rock dust

• Water lines extended to section loading point (tailpiece) with enough hose (500 ft minimum) to

reach each face
92

FIRE PREVENTION EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

Fire Prevention Equipment Checklist

Emergency sled 700 ft of fire hose with nozzle

 Vari-X foam generator and eductor

 Three buckets of foam concentrate

 Two rolls of brattice cloth

 Two boxes of nails (6p and 8p)

 12 or more SCSRs

 Emergency escape map

Oil station Five bags of rock dust

 One 10-lb fire extinguisher

 Area well dusted and free of trash

Power center Five bags of rock dust

 One 100-lb fire extinguisher

 Area well dusted and free of trash

Water pump Five bags of rock dust

 One 10-lb fire extinguisher

 Area well dusted and free of trash

Feeder Controls and pump area clean, free of oil and oil-soaked coal dust

 Fire suppression system intact

 Machine and tailpiece free of excessive accumulations of

 coal dust and/or spillage

Dinner hole/ Area well dusted and free of trash

 repair wagon One fire extinguisher

 Compressed gas cylinders stored correctly and secured

 Remote fire suppression operative

Continuous miner Remote fire suppression operative

 Manual fire suppression operative

 Hose for a hose fire suppression operative (if available)

 Miner clean, no oil or oil-soaked coal accumulations

 Fire nozzle and adapter stored on miner

 Operator has methane spotter and is making proper checks
93

Roof bolter Fire suppression system intact

 Bolter clean and free of oil or oil-soaked coal

 Operator has methane spotter and is making proper checks

Coal haulers

Unit # 

 Fire suppression system intact

 Hauler clean, free of oil and oil-soaked coal

 SCSR OK

Scoop Fire suppression system intact

 Scoop clean, free of oil and oil-soaked coal

 Operator has methane spotter and is making proper checks

 SCSR OK

Belt Two 20-lb fire extinguishers at drive area

 Five bags of rock dust at the starter box

 Five bags of rock dust at the take-up

 One 10-lb fire extinguisher at the take-up

 Drive clean and free of coal and oil accumulations

 Fire sensor system tested and operative

 Fire deluge system intact

 Fire sensors every 125 ft along beltline

 Fire outlets located every 300 ft or less along beltline
94

FUNCTIONAL TEST OF MINE MONITORING SYSTEMS

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------

Req. By: Page: 

Run on: at: Report: 

 Stand Alone PM Version: 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------

JOB CARD FOR TASK NUMBER E001

7-DAY INSPECTION MSHA REQUIREMENT

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------

WORK GROUP: 

EQUIPMENT NUMBER: 

RESOURCE TYPE NO. REQUIRED EST. HOURS

“ DATES 

LAST SCHEDULE DATE LAST PERFORMED DATE NEXT SCHEDULE DATE JOB PRIORITY MAINTENANCE TYPE

COMPONENT MODIFIER SEQUENCE

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------

-- COMPLETION TEXT --

-- JOB INSTRUCTIONS --

ELECTRICAL

NECESSARY MATERIALS: CO CALIBRATION KIT

07 DAY INSPECTION

DATE DUE:

NEXT DUE DATE:

CALIBRATED BY: DATE: 

 

1. INFORM SECURITY, WORKING SECTIONS, BELT PEOPLE,

AND SHIFT FOREMAN THAT YOU WILL BE CREATING A 

MINE-WIDE ALARM FOR TESTING PURPOSES ONLY 

A. INFORM THEM OF AN APPROXIMATE TIME THAT 

 YOU WILL PERFORM THE TEST.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. PICK A BELT CO ANYWHERE UNDERGROUND, BUT DO NOT

IDENTIFY TO SECURITY WHAT THAT CO IS. 

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

3. APPLY CO GAS TO START MINE-WIDE ALARM 

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

4. CALL SECURITY AND ASK IF THEY RECEIVED A

MINE-WIDE ALARM AND FROM WHERE THE ALARM

ORIGINATED. IF SECURITY ANSWERS CORRECTLY 

THE TEST WAS A SUCCESS. 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

5. ** IMPORTANT ** HAVE SECURITY ENTER IT IN

THE CONSPEC WEEKLY FUNCTIONAL TEST BOOK. 

BOOK IS ON THE SHELF JUST ABOVE THE CONSPEC
95

PRINTER. MAKE SURE THEY SIGN IT, ALSO. 

 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: 

REVIEWED BY: DATE 
96

WEEKLY CONSPEC SYSTEM FUNCTIONAL TEST

DATE LOCATION STATUS INITIALS
97

MINE MONITOR INSPECTION REPORT

DATE INSPECTED BY:

CHECK POINTS STATUS COMMENTS:

ISOLATOR BOX BLINKING YES - NO

ACC STATS/TRUNK 1 AND 2 YES - NO

PAPER IN PRINTER YES - NO

SEQUENCE MONITOR FLASHING YES - NO

TIME AND DATE ON LISTING YES - NO

POWER UNIT

AC - READY - CHARGER LIGHTS ON YES - NO

INVERTER AND ALARM LIGHTS OFF YES - NO

VOICE ALARM WORKING YES - NO

DISPLAY AND OPERATING CHECKS YES - NO

CO’S CHANGING TRUNK 1 - NINE RIGHT YES - NO

CO’S CHANGING TRUNK 2 - THIRD SW YES - NO

CLEAR BUFFER SCREEN YES

INVESTIGATE ALL NO’S!

NOTES

NAME: DATE: 
98

CONSPEC EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION CENTER ACTIVITY LOG

 COMMENTS:

TIME:

READINGS:

LOCATIONS:

TIME:

READINGS:

LOCATIONS:

TIME:

READINGS:

LOCATIONS:

TIME:

READINGS:

LOCATIONS:

TIME:

READINGS: 

LOCATIONS:
99

CONSPEC ROOM CALLOUT LOG

DATE SECTION WHO TIME STATUS PED SYSTEM

CALL NO. INITIALS
100

CUTTING/WELDING PERMIT (EXAMPLE 1)

CUTTING/WELDING OPERATIONS

Hot work permit

1. Call communication coordinator

2. Methane check: every 20 min

3. Rock dust before starting

4. 10-lb fire extinguisher or 240 lb rock dust

5. Blankets to cover area, surface only

6. Protective equipment

7. Long sleeves or weldingleathers

8. Welding gloves

9. Safety glasses

10. Welding hood: check for holes, cracks in lens

11. Cutting goggles: check forbroken lenses

12. Leg bands or cuffs tied

ADDITIONAL SAFETY CHECKS

1. Examine work area for:

a. Stumbling hazards

b. Unsafe roof conditions

c. Adequate ventilation coursed to return

d. Cleanliness: grease, oil, coal dust

removed

2. Ground clamp secured

3. Inspect equipment before using: torch, welder,

etc.

4. Warn others before striking an arc

5. When welding overhead-protect ears with

nonflammable material

6. Do not gob hot material

CLOSE-OUT INSPECTION - 1 HOUR

1. Inspection date: .

2. Inspected by: .

3. Conditions found: 

 

 .

4. Call communications coordinator to inform of

followup inspection

5. Turn in tag to shift manager or preparation plant

supervisor (surface).
101

CUTTING/WELDING PERMIT (EXAMPLE 2)

HOT WORK PERMIT

Note: Before issuing this permit, all of the

precautions described in company SOP should

be followed.

Both columns must be completed

Good for this shift ONLY 

 date

From to 

 time time

Bldg. Dept. Floor 

Work to be done: 

 

 

Work performed by: 

FIRE watch assigned? Yes No 

Names of fire watches: 

 

Other special precautions taken: 

 

 

I have been instructed, and I understand the

hazards, as well as the precautions necessary to

do this work.

 

Signature of person performing work

I verify that the work site has been inspected, all

necessary precautions have been taken to

prevent fire, and the individual who has signed

above is authorized to do this work.

 

Signature of supervisor

 

Date and time of signature
102

1. Have all flammable or combustible materials

been removed from the work area (35-ft

radius)? Yes No 

2. If any flammables or combustibles cannot be

removed, have they been properly covered by

fire-resistive shields or tarpaulins? Yes No 

3. Are fire extinguishing systems in service? Yes 

 No 

4. Are adequate portable fire extinguishers and/or

hoses provided? Yes No 

5. Have combustible floors or roofs been wet

down and/or properly covered? Yes No 

6. Have wall or floor openings been properly

covered? Yes No 

7. Is hot work equipment in good working

condition? Yes No 

8. Is a confined space permit required?

Yes No 

9. Is a line breaking permit required? Yes No

10. Is lockout/tagout required? Yes No 

11. Has the atmosphere been checked with a

combustible gas detector? Yes No 

12. Is ventilation adequate? Yes No 

13. Is adequate PPE provided (glasses, mask,

gloves, breathing apparatus)? Yes No 

Work completed 

 Date/time

I have inspected the worksite after completion of the

work and find the area to be in safe condition.

 

Signature of supervisor

 

Date and time of signature
103

SPECIFICATIONS FOR SLOPE WATER LINE

PERFORMANCE

The slope water line system shall deliver 50 gpm to each of three hydrants. The pipeline shall be drained after each

use and normally kept empty to prevent freezing. Water shall be introduced via an electrically operated valve that can

be locally (coal seam at surge bin) or remotely (Communications-Warehouse) actuated. The drain valve shall be

interlocked with the supply valve and must be closed prior to opening the supply valve. There will be local and remote

indication of valve positions. The supply and drain valve shall have manual override of electrical actuator.

MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS

Pipeline

Three-inch nominal diameter aluminum pipe schedule 40 furnished in 20-ft lengths with grooved Victaulic style 77

couplers.

Supports

Pipeline shall be supported at least every 10 ft. An additional support shall be provided at each tee. The support shall

consist of a fiberglass Enduro Model #SR1-9P furnished by Westfall Co. The support shall be secured to the

concrete wall with two 3/8-in-diam “red-head” studs, stainless steel type.

Use a pipe clamp on each support. Clamp to be Model #PC-1617N.

Supply and Drain Valve

The supply valve shall be 3-in Trivaco MAK150 SG07-M. Adams Class 300 rotary tight shutoff valve. Rated for

210 psi. CS double flanged body, 3156 SS Disc and seat. NI Resist pressed bearings, and zero leakage. It shall

be actuated by 115 v AUMA SG07 Quarter-turn actuator complete with water-tight enclosure.

The drain valve shall be a nominal 1-in 110 v, SS construction, normally open. Similar to McMaster Carr 4665K46,

page 1428, catalog 100.

Air Release Valve and Vacuum Breaker

The air release valve shall be C.I. 1-in by 0.5-in similar to McMaster Carr 48045K73, page 1438, catalog 100, 50

XI S.

The vacuum breaker shall be 1.5 in by 1.25 in similar to McMaster Carr 4817K28, page 1429, catalog 100.
Water Tee

The tee shall be Victaulic style 72 — 3 in by 1.5 in.

The angle valve shall be rough brass 1.5 in UL 175# fire line angle valve.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM FOR FREEZING AND NONFREEZING LOCATIONS
106

GENERAL NOTES

1. All water pipes - 2 in (schedule 40) metal pipe, except as noted.

2. All pipe fittings - malleable iron - 300 lb. Extra heavy or equal.

3. Attach pipe to permit expansion movement.

4. If sprinkler is too low to have water discharge over belt, rotate pipe enough to get coverage. Flow test to adjust for proper tilt.

5. For freezing areas, system requires a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze (ethylene-glycol). To determine gallons required for 2-in pipe, multiply total number

of feet (pipe in system) by 0.18, then divide by 2; this equals gallons of antifreeze.

6. 50-ft minimum at belt drive with fire-retardant belt. 150 ft minimum at belt drive without fire-retardant belt.

7. Optional 2-in outlet provided for optional 2-in hose connection to extend to remote head roller sprinklers.

8. Pipe may be mounted at any height. Uprights shall be installed to maintain sprinklers near the roof.

ELECTRICAL NOTES

A. Contacts of item No. 3 to be wired in stop circuit of belt drive motor starter.

B. Contacts of item No. 3 to be wired to fire detection system or audible visual alarm system.

KEY

1. 2-in ball valve class 300 FM approved or UL listed; pressure rating as required.

2. Ball valve class 300 FM approved or UL listed; pressure rating as required.

3. Waterflow switch FM approved or UL listed; pressure rating as required.

4. Sprinkler - pendant type - FM approved or UL listed; 0.5-in orifice, 212E F temperature rating.

5. Sprinkler - Upright type - FM approved or UL listed; 0.5-in orifice, 212E F temperature rating.

6. Pipe plug (optional 2-in outlet for headroller protection).

7. Valve - swing check - 2-in class 300 or equal (freezing areas only).

8. Reducing tee - 2 in by 2 in by 0.5 in - malleable iron - extra heavy or equal.
107

SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

MAINTENANCE - SEMIANNUAL EXAMINATION

To provide maximum assurance that your Ansul A-101 system will operate effectively and safely:

1. Note the general appearance of the dry-chemical tank for

mechanical damage or corrosion.

2. Check nameplate for readability, corrosion, or looseness.

3. Remove fill cap.

4. Examine fill cap gaskets for elasticity. Clean and coat lightly with a

good grade of high-resistant grease.

5. Inspect threads on fill cap and in fill opening for nicks, burrs, crossthreading, rough or feathered edges.

6. Check pressure relief vent in fill opening threads for obstruction.

7. Make certain tank is filled with free-flowing Ansul Foray dry

chemical to a level of not more than 3 inches from bottom of fill

opening.

8. Secure fill cap, hand tighten.

9. Disengage bursting disc union.

10. Examine the bursting disc. If necessary, move the tank slightly to

view disc. The bursting disc should be properly seated with the

washer side facing out (smooth side in) and should be undamaged

(smooth, not scored or ruptured).

11. Engage bursting disc union (wrench tighten). CAUTION:

Overtightening can damage bursting disc.

12. Loosen the bolt(s) that restrain the cartridge or remove extinguisher

cartridge guard assembly.

13. Inspect the expellant gas cartridge assembly for evidence of

mechanical damage or corrosion.

14. Unscrew the cartridge from the pneumatic actuator/cartridge

receiver and weigh it. Replace if its weight is not within

specifications stamped on the cartridge.

15. Inspect threads on cartridge and in pneumatic actuator/cartridge

receiver for nicks, burrs, cross-threading rough or feathered.

16. Check pressure vent in pneumatic actuator/cartridge receiver for

obstruction.

17. Examine cartridge receiver gasket for elasticity. Clean and coat

lightly with a good grade of high heat-resistant grease. Return

cartridge pneumatic actuator/cartridge receiver, hand tighten.

18. Tighten the bracket bolt(s) uniformly or return cartridge guard

assembly.

19. Be sure the dry-chemical tank is firmly mounted in its bracket.

20. Check hose, fittings, and nozzles for mechanical damage.

21. Check nozzle openings. Slot should be closed (capped) with silicone

grease or covered with plastic blowoff cap.

22. Check remote actuator. Remove cartridge and weigh (replace if

weight is 0.25 oz less than stamped on cartridge). Inspect threads

on cartridge and in actuator for nicks, burrs, cross-threading, rough

or feathered edges. Check pressure safety vent in actuator body for

obstruction. Examine actuator cartridge gasket for elasticity. Clean

and coat lightly with a good grade of high heat-resistant grease. Pull

ring pin and operate actuator button several times to check for free

movement.

23. Seal ring pin to puncture lever with lead and wire seal. Return

cartridge to remote actuator, hand tighten.

24. Record date of maintenance.
108

ANNUAL FUNCTIONAL TEST OF THE FIRE SUPPRESSION AT BELT DRIVES

30 CFR 75.1107-16(b)

This test is done to make sure that:

1. Water flows through each branch line in the system.

a. The last spray in each branch line of the fire suppression system has a tee with the spray pointed toward the belt. The other side of the tee

has a ball valve. This ball valve allows testing to be done without using tools.

 b. The ball valve may be at the end of the branch line and not hooked to a spray or tee. The same results will take place when testing.

2. When the ball valve is opened and water is flowing, the belt should shut off and the alarm will automatically be activated on the computer in the guard

shack.

3. If any of these results are not obtained, correction shall be made at once, and the Safety Department is notified of shortcoming.
109

DRAWING OF A TYPICAL WATER LANCE
110

INDIVIDUAL WORK HAZARD ASSESSMENT

Name

Return at end of shift

Date Shift Crew

Protective Equipment Checklist

Metatarsal safety shoes/hard hat? Mandatory

Safety glasses? Mandatory

Hearing protection needed? Yes No

Gloves or respirator needed? Yes No

Cutting goggles/welding hood needed? Yes No

Fall protection required? Yes No

Ice grips or life vest needed? Yes No

Preoperational Equipment Inspection

Equipment type: Equipment #:

Substandard conditions observed, but not corrected (describe):

Was a work order generated to correct these conditions? Yes No

Work Area Inspection

Substandard conditions observed, but not corrected (describe):

Were these conditions reported to a supervisor? Yes No

Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

Work task(s) performed:
111

Does a JSA exist for task(s) performed? Yes No

Was the JSA reviewed? Yes No

Was an “individual” JSA developed for task? Yes No (see details on next page)

Fls: Smm: Supt:

Time reviewed: Time reviewed: Time reviewed:
112

Daily Work Assignments

“Individual” Job Safety Analysis

Job: | Location:

Sequence of Basic

Job Steps

Potential Accidents

or Hazards

Recommended Safe Job

Procedure
113

BELTLINE INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Date: Shift 

Belt No. 

 Date

 OK Defective Repaired

 Stoppings

 Doors

 Guards

 Cross-overs/unders

 Dust

 Roof/rib Conditions

 Belt idlers

 Drive/Take-ups

 Splices/wipes accumulations

 Trash/coal accumulations

 Wire/electrical

 Fire sensors

 Fire line

 Risers/valves

 Fire hose/nozzles

 Water sprays

 Fire suppression

 Extinguisher

 Ventilation

 Phones

 Welds/tie-downs

 Walkways

 Belt bank or take-up pressure

 Belt training

Comments: 
114

 

Examiners: 

Corrected by: 

Routing list:

 Belt Crew

 Down Shift Supervisor

 File
115

SCSR CHECK SHEET

MEMO

Need to check your crew’s SCSRs and fill out the form attached.

Information needed:

Name:

SCSR No.:

SCSR date:

Need this done and turned in to Safety by 

Date

Name SCSR No. Manufacturer date
116
DAILY SCSR EXAMINATIONS

DATE: 

LOCATION SCSRs EXAMINED

BY LOCATION SCSRs EXAMINEDBY LOCATION SCSRs EXAMINEDBY
118

APPENDIX C.—EXAMPLES OF RESPONSE PLANS AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

MINE EMERGENCY OPERATION PLAN

MEO Plan COMMAND CENTER 
119

UNDERGROUND

EMERGENCY

TASK COORDINATOR

BACKUP

UNDERGROUND

SUPERVISOR

THOSE ON DUTY

UNDERGROUND

FIRE BRIGADE

FIRE BRIGADE LEADER

MINE RESCUE

TEAM

TEAM CAPTAIN

MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

COMMAND STRUCTURE

 

P

E

R

SONNEL ASSIGNMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FIRST RESPONDER

C Notifies Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse of potential problem and to be on alert.

C Post a person, if available, just outby the area to act as a sentry to:

- Keep persons from inadvertently entering a dangerous area.

- Log activities (for example, people evaluating area, firefighting, etc.)

- Assist in notifying Communications.

- Be available to respond to helping first responder in case of a problem (for example, smoke inhalation.)
120

MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

• Investigates to confirm evidence of fire/smoke (visual) and makes judgment on severity of situation.

- If it is a small fire that can be extinguished, attempt to extinguish fire using appropriate safety precautions and

existing safety equipment.

- If the fire is so large that efforts to control are not working, then return back to sentry and notify

communications to begin orderly evacuation of persons inby fire area. Give Communications/Tech-Staff

Warehouse directions as to which escape route is safest and fastest.

C Notifies appropriate personnel to shut off conveyor belts and/or kill power in affected area, if needed.

C First responder remains at the site to assist in evacuation and, with help of the sentry, maintains constant

communication with Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse on status of fire and evacuation of potential problems.

COMMUNICATIONS

C Immediately notifies Fire Detection Team and alerts available Fire Brigade members if source of smoke is not

apparent.

Fire Detection Team: Shift Mine Manager; Safety Personnel; Maintenance Foreman; and Safety Committeeman

C If problem cannot be controlled by the first responder, the Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse will dispatch

the Fire Brigade to the area.

C Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse immediately dispatches Top Shop Repairman (or ?) to Water Treatment

Building to deactivate excess flow valve switch (located in northeast corner of building to right of breaker box).

Switch must be turned from “remote” to “local.” Ensure valve is open to fullest extent by manually pulling bypass

valve wheel out 3/8 inches and rotating counterclockwise as far as possible. The valve is located in lower level

of the Water Treatment Building.

C Top Shop Repairman should then be directed to Smith Lake Pump Station to ensure and maintain function of

water pumps.
121

MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

C Immediately notifies all underground areas of the problem. If necessary, begins evacuation of all personnel in

affected areas and receives information on possible evacuation routes.

C Notifies Mine Superintendent, Construction Coordinator/Operations Support, and Longwall Coordinator if a

severe problem is found.

C Contacts all surface foremen to come to Communications Center.

C Shift Mine Manager informs Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse to assign lamp man and/or one surface

foreman to count and check off evacuated personnel and double check the check-in/check-out tag system.

C Assigns one Warehouse Clerk to remain with the Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse to help answer/make

phone calls.

Warehouse Clerk - Primary

Surface Foreman - Backup

Designee out of Labor Pool

C Establish initial security at surface-controlled access locations by utilizing available Surface Foremen, Underground

Foremen, or any available employees. Secures Mine Examiners Books from the Examiners Room and Visitors

Log Book from the old Training Room.

C Sees that subsequent events and communications are noted with respective times in the Fire/Smoke log.

C Calls ambulance to be on-site for possible injuries resulting from fire or evacuation of mine.
122

MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

SMOKE AND FIRE LOG

Name of Person(s) Reporting

Times

C First discovered

C First reported

C All subsequent information

Location of Discovery

C Main, submain, and/or panel

C Intake, neutral, and/or return

C Entry number(s)

C Crosscut number(s)

Source of Smoke/Fire

C Actual source, if known

C Source inby/outby discovery location

C Smoke/fire traveling inby or outby

Extent of Smoke/Fire

C Smoke/fire detected by smell only

C Smoke/fire visible

C Visibility in feet

C Entry numbers affected

Any Other Pertinent Facts

C Extent of efforts to extinguish

C No. of people working in the area

C No. of people working inby area

C Active projects in the area

C Is equipment deenergized?

C Problems that may affect ability to evacuate inby personnel
123

MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

FIRST-LINE SUPERVISOR (OR PERSON IN CHARGE)

C Secure work area:

- Designate employee to monitor phone.

- Shut off unit power and water.

- Assemble entire crew.

• If time permits:

- Back out all equipment outby last open crosscut.

- Hang all ventilation curtains.

C Prepare for evacuation:

- Communicate all known facts to crew, emphasizing a safe, calm evacuation.

- Distribute SCSRs.

- Obtain escapeway map.

- Notify Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse that work area is secure and report any status change.

C Evacuation:

- Determine evacuation route based on all available information from Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse

and first responder. Keep your crew together.

- Notify Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse of departure time, names, and route.

- Proceed to surface via designated escape route (call out location, if route has telephones.)

- First supervisor on mine bottom helps coordinate caging of employees to surface and records name of those

leaving the mine.

- Other supervisors assign transportation to send in additional equipment and people as requested.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF FIRST SUPERVISOR ON SURFACE

C Check off persons exiting the mine and persons already on surface.

C Ensures that persons who have exited mine have “checked out” on the board.

C Assemble workers and maintain order in waiting area.

C Ensures that persons entering mine are logged in.
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MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

OPERATIONS CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES

C The Shift Mine Manager is responsible to see that Check-In/Check-Out Procedures are initiated during an

emergency mine evacuation. He/she will designate two first-line supervisors to coordinate caging and checkin/check-out from the mine.

C The standard “Check-In/Check-Out Log” form will be used to document all activities by recording the name,

affiliation, social security number, tag number, and time for anyone entering or leaving the mine.

C The Check-In/Check-Out Official will be notified of the mine emergency by the Shift Mine Manager. This official

will report to the mine and confirm the following:

- A first-line supervisor is stationed at each portal.

- A positive Check-In/Check-Out System is in place at each portal to restrict access into the mine and to

document the exit of personnel.

- All information is being documented on the “Check-in/Check-Out Log” form by the first- line supervisor and

sufficient forms are available.

C The Check-In/Check-Out Official must also:

- Obtain a list from Operations or Payroll of all personnel who were in the mine prior to the emergency.

- Based on this information and Check-In/Check-Out Logs, determine which personnel are still in the mine

- Provide all appropriate information to the Shift Mine Manager.

- If necessary, set up a rotation schedule for first-line supervisors monitoring check-in and check-out at portals.

- Arrange for a guard from the labor pool to guard the slope entrance.

SHIFT MINE MANAGER/MAINTENANCE FOREMAN

C Firefighting Brigade Mobilization:

- Team members proceed to site of fire, taking fire brigade equipment from area storage.

- Arrive at site, evaluate situation, and put on appropriate protective gear.

- Devise plan of attack and outline any materials/equipment needed, and relay this information to

Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse. Also, request any extra people/equipment needed.

- Kill all power at fire site and inby fire area, lock out the trolley power outby the fire area. Station someone at

this point, and do not let other people inby this point unless they are associated with the fire brigade.

- Decide within 15 min on the scene whether to call mine rescue team members and fire brigade members on

other shifts for backup.
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MEO Plan UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY 

OTHER ACTIONS

SURFACE

C Surface fire brigade members are notified to get the fire brigade equipment trailer and bring it to the elevator so

that equipment bags can be sent underground.

C Safety department personnel get all necessary carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, modified sampling pumps, and

sample tubing from their office. Additional handheld radios from Communications Center are also acquired. This

equipment is to be taken/sent underground to fire site:

- Prepares first-aid area for any reported injuries.

- Sees that procedures are followed for notifying regulatory agencies.

FIREFIGHTING GUIDELINES

C Initial response to a significant mine fire event:

- CO and methane gas levels must be monitored in the fire area, return, and intake to the fire area.

CO 10 ppm: indication of a fire

 50 ppm: irrespirable atmosphere

- Using modified sampling pumps or protective breathing apparatus to determine CO reading in the return. Do

not adjust ventilation to the fire site. Take CO and methane readings every 15 min and set up sampling

pumps, if prolonged effort is envisioned.

- Notify the Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse if extra air tanks are needed or if refilling of air tanks is

needed, and set up delivery system.

- Have warehouse send foam generators and additional foam, if needed.

C If firefighting actions exceed 15 min:

- Send top shop repairman to exhaust fan for monitoring. Send modified sampling pump, CO and methane

detector to fan with one underground foreman. Monitor exhaust fan readings every 15 min and report readings

to Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse.

- Send one underground foreman to gate and control access until the Mine Emergency Organization is operating.

- Send one repairman and underground foreman with pager phone from warehouse to locked out power

switches. Establish communications with Communications/Tech-Staff Warehouse.

- Send one foreman to the Communications Ccenter to specifically log all firefighting activities and respective

times.
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EMERGENCY RESPONSE (EXAMPLE 1)

A. FIREFIGHTING AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES INBY FIRE AREA

If a fire occurs or is suspected (i.e., alarm(s)) outby the working section, all personnel who are inby the fire area shall

be immediately withdrawn to a point outby the fire area, at which time they will be assigned to firefighting activities or

be withdrawn from the mine.

The supervisor inby the fire area should:

 1. Be in charge of the evacuation of those persons under his/her charge.

2. Account for all persons within his/her respective area.

3. Designate the escape route to be taken and notify the responsible person on the surface that an evacuation is

underway and the escape route to be used.

4. The supervisor or his/her designee will check at frequent intervals at mandoors to see if the fire area has been

passed, if the fire area is unknown at the time of evacuation.

5. When the fire area is passed, leave the emergency equipment in an accessible location.

6. In the event that escape is impossible, the crew will travel to an area that can be safely barricaded. The

following procedures should be followed:

(i) Note outside of the barricade the number of persons and what time the barricade was entered.

(ii) Inside the barricade conserve food and water.

(iii) Conserve battery lights by using only one at a time, and conserve air by remaining inactive.

(iv) Circulate the air occasionally by having one person walk back and forth with their coat extended.

(v) One person should pound on a pipe, belt structure, roof bolt, rail, or other sound conductor at 15-min

intervals to alert rescue crew(s) as to the location of the barricade.
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7. Supervise the evacuation and see that the following assignments are carried out:

PERSONNEL ASSIGNMENTS FOR WORKING SECTIONS INBY A FIRE

Miner section Longwall section Personnel assignments

Mechanic Mechanic Assist Supervisor(s)

Miner Operator Shearer Operator First-aid supplies

Miner Operator Shearer Operator Hammer and nails

Roof Bolter Cornerman Saw and ax(es)

Roof Bolter Laborers Spads and spad gun

Shuttle Car Operator Propman Brattice cloth

Shuttle Car Operator Propman Brattice cloth

Faceman Faceman Account for and distribute SCSRs and see that

each person has his/her lunch bucket.

B.GENERAL FIREFIGHTING PROCEDURES

It is recognized that the majority of mine fires are not of major proportions and can be readily brought under control.

However, the seriousness that could develop must be considered with a predetermined plan for firefighting and

evacuation of underground mine personnel.

The following procedures should be followed in the event of a mine fire:

 1. If a fire is found or suspected, immediate action shall be taken to find and correct the cause, and the

requirements regarding notification shall be implemented immediately.

2. Firefighting activities shall be started as soon as possible and continued until the fire is extinguished or until it

cannot be safely controlled.

3. All electric power shall be deenergized in areas affected when posing a hazard to individuals in that area.

4. Maintain control of and know the location of all persons in the fire area, and remove those not required for

firefighting activities.
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5. A carbon monoxide detection instrument shall be transported to the fire area and sampling started as soon as

possible.

6. Always attack the fire from the smoke-free side, if possible.

7. Never use water on an electrical fire until the power is deenergized.

FIRE DRILLS

All miners shall participate in fire drills in accordance with 30 CFR 75.1101-23(c).

A. TYPE OF TRAINING

1. Various types of training may constitute a fire drill (for example, demonstrations, hands-on training, group

discussions, and task-oriented training).

ESCAPEWAYS

The following shall apply with regard to escapeways:

A. ROUTES OF TRAVEL

1. Main escapeway systems and working section escapeways shall be reviewed with all miners in accordance

with 30 CFR 75.383(a) and (b).

B. ESCAPEWAY MAPS

1. Posting of maps showing the main escapeway system and working section escapeways shall comply with 30

CFR 75.383(a).

C. LIFELINES

1. A lifeline will be made available in each working section at or near the SCSR storage cache for use by the

section crew in the event of an emergency. The lifeline will have hookups at no more than every 7 ft. If tag

lines are used, they should be no longer than 3 ft.
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EMERGENCY RESPONSE (EXAMPLE 2)

GENERAL SURFACE FOREMAN

1. Shall go immediately to the mine monitor room, see that the on-site notification plan is in progress, and ensure

that all crews and affected persons have been notified.

2. If the person in charge of the shift is not on the surface, the foreman shall assume temporary charge of the

operation and begin immediate implementation of the mine emergency responsibilities plan.

3. Assign a guard(s) at the mine portals to check all persons in and out of the mine. (A written log shall be kept.)

4. Assign an attendant(s) at the fan to ensure that the fan is operational, and take gas readings for carbon

monoxide and methane (a written log shall be kept). If the fan was stopped, it shall not be restarted without

authorization from the official in charge.

5. Assign the bathhouse man to make a positive, written accounting of all persons on shift who check out of the

mine.

6. Assign a competent person to log conversations on the mine phone, and assist the monitor operator with

his/her duties.

7. Assign persons to ready emergency materials, including the foam generator and fire trailer for transport

underground.

8. Secure all accessible entrances to the mine property to prevent entrance of unauthorized personnel.

9. Organize a crew to load and deliver all needed supplies to the mine.

10. Assemble and load on supply trucks all emergency materials. The following materials should be promptly

assembled (these are in addition to the mine emergency package maintained at the mine):

a. 40 pieces of 2-in by 4-in lumber in lengths of 8 to 16 ft

b. 5,000 board ft of brattice board

c. 200 cap pieces and 200 wedges

d. 1,000 concrete blocks

e. 12 bags of mortar mix

f. 15 packages of rigipak
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11. In addition to these supplies, other materials such as timber, crossbars, additional cap pieces and wedges,

cement blocks, etc., should be located and prepared to be sent underground as needed.

12. Arrange for the scheduling of persons under his/her supervision to provide for uninterrupted coverage during

the emergency.

13. Arrange for persons from other mines for possible backup duty.

14. Keep surface area clear of all unnecessary equipment or vehicles.

MINE WAREHOUSE SUPERVISOR OR WAREHOUSEMAN

1. Proceed immediately to the mine monitor room, assist with notification of underground personnel if needed.

2. Shall be responsible to make immediate off-site notification by phone of the following persons (if not on shift):

a. Mine Manager

b. Chief Mine Safety Engineer

c. Mine Superintendent

d. General Mine Foreman

e. Maintenance Superintendent

f. Senior Mine Engineer

g. Warehouse Supervisor

h. Mine Clerk

A written log of persons contacted shall be kept.

 3. Prepare any emergency kits, such as fire boxes, which are stored in the warehouse, for immediate transport

underground.

4. Make provisions for the immediate use of the following: nails, brattice, hammers, axes, saws, picks, scaling

bars, shovels, spad guns and spads and washers, fire extinguishers, rock dust, fire hose, rigipaks, telephones,

phone wire, and hangers. For persons authorized by mine management, also arrange for coveralls, boots,

gloves, hard hats, belts, and other safety equipment.

5. Keep a record of all equipment issued and returned.

6. Have assembled materials to be sent to the fresh air base for rescue workers, such as drinking water,

Gatorade, first-aid supplies, wet gear, etc.
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7. Arrange for uninterrupted coverage in the warehouse.

8. Coordinate activities with Central Warehouse and Central Purchasing.

9. Order adequate supplies and equipment for use during the emergency.

10. Coordinate materials to be delivered with the surface foreman, Central Warehouse, and purchasing. Notify

the person in charge when needed materials are sent underground.
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EMERGENCY RESPONSE (FIRE DETECTION FOR TWO-ENTRY SYSTEM)

The development of two-entry longwall systems will be done under the stipulations pertaining to the Decision and

Order for Petition for Modification, Docket No. 86-MSA-3, and outlined as follows:

I. Development of the Two-Entry System

(a) An early-warning fire detection system utilizing low-level carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed

in the panel intake escapeway entry and the panel belt entry used as a return air course as follows:

(1) At the mouth of the panel in the intake escapeway entry, at the beginning of the working section,

and at intervals not to exceed 1,000 ft along the panel intake escapeway entry.

(2) At the mouth of the panel in the return/belt conveyor entry, not more than 50 ft outby the section

belt tailpiece, at intervals not to exceed 1,000 ft along the panel return/belt conveyor entry, and

at each belt drive, except as provided in paragraph III(1).

(b) In addition to the carbon monoxide monitoring devices installed in the belt haulage entry, approved

methane monitors shall be installed as follows:

(1) Approved methane monitoring devices shall be installed to monitor the return air in each belt

haulage entry. Such devices shall be located so that the return air is monitored near the mouth of

the longwall section, near the tailpiece of the belt conveyor, and at or near any secondary belt drive

unit installed in the belt haulage entry.

(2) The methane monitoring devices shall be capable of providing both audible and visual alarm signals

on both the working section and at a location on the surface where personnel will be on duty at all

times when miners are underground and have two-way communication with all working sections.

When the level of methane equals or exceeds 1.0 volume per centum, the device shall initiate alarm

signals and shall deenergize the belt conveyor drive units and the equipment located on the section.

(3) The methane monitoring devices shall be visually examined at least once every 24 hr to ensure

proper functioning. The unit shall be inspected by a person qualified for such work at intervals not

exceeding 7 days. The qualified person shall ensure that the monitor is operating properly and that

the required maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer is performed. The monitor shall

be calibrated with known quantities of methane-air mixtures at intervals not exceeding 30 calendar

days. An inspection record shall be maintained on the surface and made available to all interested

persons. The inspection record shall show the date and time of each weekly inspection and

calibration of the monitor and all maintenance performed.
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II. Retreat Mining in the Two-Entry System

(a) An early warning fire detection system meeting the following requirements shall be installed as follows:

(1) A low-level carbon monoxide detection system shall be installed in the belt entries utilized as intake

air courses.

(2) The carbon monoxide monitoring devices in the intake entries shall be located so that the air is

monitored at each belt drive and tailpiece and at intervals not to exceed 1,000 ft in each conveyor

belt entry, except as provided in paragraphs II(a)(3) and III(1). The monitoring device located

at the tailpiece shall be at the tailpiece or not more than 50 ft inby the tailpiece on the same split

of air.

(3) Where a belt drive discharges onto a belt conveyor tailpiece in the intake entries as a continuation

of a belt conveyor haulage system without a change of direction of the belt conveyor and the belt

conveyor drive, belt take-up, and belt conveyor tailpiece are on the same split of air traveling in

the same direction, only one low-level carbon monoxide sensor is required. It shall be installed

not more than 100 ft inby the drive, belt take-up, and tailpiece on the same split of air.

(b) A low-level carbon monoxide detection system shall be installed in the panel intake escapeway entry

at the mouth of the panel in the intake escapeway entry, at the beginning of the working section, and at

intervals not to exceed 1,000 ft in the panel intake escapeway entry.

(c) During retreat mining, two separate and distinct intake air courses shall be provided from the beginning

of each longwall panel to the face.

 III. Requirements Applicable to Both Development and Retreat Mining Systems

(a) The velocity of air in the belt conveyor entry shall be 50 ft/min or greater and shall have definite and

distinct movement in the designated direction. The intake air- velocity measuring station at the two-entry

section neck shall activate an alarm in the manned center on the surface and on the working section

when the normal section intake velocity falls to 80 ft/min or less. Upon installation of the full monitoring

system, the intake air velocity measuring station shall activate the alarm when the normal intake air

quantity is reduced by 9,000 ft3/min or more.

(b) The low-level carbon monoxide system shall be capable of giving warning of a fire for a minimum of 4

hr after the source of power to the belt is removed during a fan stoppage or when the belt haulageway

is examined, as provided in 30 CFR 75.1103-4(e)(1) and (e)(2).

(c) Interim alert and alarm signal levels and administrative controls approved by the District Manager shall

be established for the low-level carbon monoxide monitoring system and the operations of the diesel

equipment to provide early warning of fire. The warning time provided by the system shall be

maximized. Once permanently established, the Ventilation System and Methane and Dust Control Plan

required by 30 CFR 75.370 shall state the established alert and alarm signal levels and all administrative
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controls necessary due to the operation of the diesel equipment.

The levels established shall be as follows:

In all belt entries, the maximum alert level shall be 20 ppm and the maximum alarm level shall be 30 ppm.

In all locations other than belt entries, the maximum alert level shall be 25 ppm and the maximum alarm level shall

be 30 ppm.

(1) Methods for establishing the alert and alarm signal levels for the low-level carbon monoxide monitoring

system shall include continuous recording of carbon monoxide levels measured by all sensors in order to

establish a mine history for carbon monoxide.

Time delays may be incorporated as necessary, with the maximum allowable delays as follows:

When a CO sensor reaches the low-level alert concentration, there may be a maximum of 45 sec delay time

before the alert signal is activated in the control room. The operator shall immediately contact persons inby the

sensor in alert and initiate an immediate investigation of the cause of the alert.

During investigation of a low-level alert, all persons in the affected area shall be notified and a person shall man

the phone continuously until the cause of the alert has been investigated. If no report is received from persons

making the investigation within 15 min or if an additional sensor goes into alert, the visual alert on the section will

be activated and all persons inby the sensor in alert shall withdraw to a safe location outby the working places.

The procedures contained within this paragraph do not apply to the known nonhazardous alerts and alarms

mentioned below.

If communications cannot be made or are lost, the visual alert on the section shall be immediately activated and

all persons withdrawn to a safe location where communications can be established.

When a sensor reaches the high alarm level, the audible alarm on the affected section will be activated,

communications shall be established, all persons shall be withdrawn outby the sensor in alarm, and the cause of

the alarm shall be immediately investigated. If a hazardous condition is found and cannot be immediately

controlled, the mine-wide firefighting and evacuation plan shall be implemented.

Known nonhazardous alerts and alarms caused by activities such as cutting, welding, blasting, and use of diesel

to move heavy equipment other than normal daily diesel operation will not require the operator to withdraw

persons inby that location provided prior notification is made by the person(s) at the source of the alarm and

communications are maintained with that person throughout the duration of the alarm. The control room operator

shall be notified when known nonhazardous alert and/or alarm activities have ceased. Should the concentration

of CO reach the threshold limit value (TLV) of 50 ppm in the atmosphere of any work area, all affected persons

shall be withdrawn.

(2) Administrative controls shall be used to minimize the number and type of pieces of diesel equipment in the

two-entry system, to notify miners on the working section when any diesel equipment is operating in the
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two-entry system, and to avoid alert and alarm signals caused by operating diesel equipment.

(3) Diesel equipment shall not be used for face haulage equipment on the working section, except that diesels

may be used on the working section for cleanup or similar noncoal haulage purposes.

(4) No later than 2 years from the date of this Order and pursuant to a schedule developed by the petitioner

and approved by the District Manager, all diesel-powered equipment operated on any two-entry longwall

development or two-entry longwall panel shall be equipment-approved under 30 CFR 36.

(5) All diesel-powered equipment operated on any longwall development or longwall panel shall be provided

with a fire suppression system.

(d) The low-level carbon monoxide devices shall provide both visual and audible signals on the working

section and at a manned surface location. A visual alert signal shall be activated when the carbon

monoxide level at any sensor reaches a level established in accordance with paragraph III(c) for

the mine, and an audible alarm signal shall be activated when the carbon monoxide level reaches

a level established in accordance with paragraph III(c) for the mine. When the carbon monoxide

system gives a visual alert signal, all persons shall be withdrawn to a safe area outby the working

places, and appropriate action shall be taken to determine the cause of the signal. When the carbon

monoxide system gives an audible alarm signal, the mine evacuation plan required by 30 CFR

75.1101-23(a) shall be implemented.

(e) When miners are underground, a responsible person shall be on duty at all times at a surface

location to see the visual alert and hear the alarm signals of the carbon monoxide monitoring system

when the carbon monoxide reaches the levels established in paragraph III(c). This person shall

have two-way communications with all working sections. When the established alert and alarm

signal levels are reached, the person shall notify all working sections and other personnel who may

be endangered. The person shall be trained in the operation of the carbon monoxide monitoring

system and in the proper procedures to follow in the event of an emergency or malfunction and, in

that event, shall take appropriate action immediately.

(f) The carbon monoxide monitoring system shall be capable of detecting electrical malfunctions, such

as electrical short circuits, open circuits, and ground faults and, where appropriate, pneumatic

malfunctions in the system.

(g) The carbon monoxide monitoring system shall be capable of identifying any activated sensor. A

map or schematic identifying each belt flight and the details for the monitoring system shall be posted

at the mine.

(h) The carbon monoxide monitoring system shall be examined visually at least once each coalproducing shift and tested for functional operation at intervals not exceeding 7 days to ensure that

the monitoring system is functioning properly and that required maintenance is being performed.

The monitoring system shall be calibrated with known concentrations of carbon monoxide and air
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mixtures at intervals not exceeding 30 calendar days. A record of all inspections shall be maintained

on the surface and made available to all interested persons. The inspection record shall show the

time and date of each weekly inspection, monthly calibration, and all maintenance performed on the

system.
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(i) If at any time the carbon monoxide monitoring system or methane monitoring system or any portion

of these systems required by this petition have been deenergized for reasons such as routine

maintenance or failure of a sensor unit, the belt conveyor may continue to operate provided the

affected portion of the belt conveyor entry is continuously patrolled and monitored for carbon

monoxide and methane by a qualified person in the following manner until the monitoring system is

returned to normal operation.

(1) If one sensor becomes inoperative, a qualified person shall monitor at that location.

(2) If two or more adjacent sensors become inoperative, a qualified person shall patrol and

monitor the area affected; and

(3) If the complete system becomes inoperative, a sufficient number of qualified persons shall

patrol and monitor the belt entries of the mine so that the belt haulage entries will be traveled

each hour in their entirety or qualified persons shall be located at the end of each belt

conveyor flight and monitor for carbon monoxide and methane.

Each of these qualified persons shall be provided with a handheld carbon monoxide detection device and methane

detection device. A carbon monoxide detection device and methane detection device shall also be available for use

of each working section in the event either monitoring system is deenergized or fails.

Monitoring with handheld instruments shall not be used in lieu of installation and use of the fire detection and methane

monitoring systems described in this Order.

(j) The carbon monoxide monitoring system located in the intake escapeway shall be patrolled and

monitored in the same manner as described in paragraph III(I) if the system has been deenergized

for reasons such as routine maintenance or failure of a sensor unit.

(k) MSHA is in the process of developing new conveyor belt flammability testing procedures. Once

these procedures have been developed, belting acquired for replacement and extensions of the

conveyor belt system shall be belting identified by the new test procedures as meeting improved

flame-resistant requirements.

(l) The details for the fire detection system and methane monitoring system, including the type of

monitor and specific sensor location on the mine map, shall be included as a part of the Ventilation

System and Methane and Dust Control Plan required by 30 CFR 75.370. The District Manager

may require additional carbon monoxide monitors and methane monitors to be installed as part of

said plan to ensure the safety of the miners.

(m) The concentrations of respirable dust in the intake air in the belt conveyor entries used as intake air

courses shall comply with the requirements of 30 CFR 70.100(b). Respirable dust samples shall

be taken in all belt entries used as intake aircourses, and the location of the sampling areas shall be

included as designated areas in the Ventilation System and Methane and Dust Control Plan.

(n) Mantrip cars or personnel carriers or other transportation equipment shall be maintained on or near

the working section and shall be of sufficient capacity to transport all persons who may be in the
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area.

(o) During development of the two-entry panel, a rock dusting unit shall be installed in the belt conveyor

entry near the section loading point. Also, during longwall retreat mining in the two-entry panel, a

rock dusting unit shall be installed on or near the last tailgate shield. These rock dusting units shall

run continuously during mining operations to render inert float coal dust in these entries except when

miners are performing maintenance, inspections, or other required work in these areas. 

(p) Diesel fuel shall not be stored in the two-entry panel.

(q) Fire doors designed to quickly isolate the working sections shall be constructed in the two entries

for potential use in emergency situations. Miners working in the two-entry panel shall be trained

in the use of the fire doors.

(r) The hydraulic fluid pump station for the longwall support system shall not be located in the twoentry panel and shall comply with the provisions of 30 CFR 75.345.

(s) The permanent stoppings separating the conveyor belt entries from the intake escapeway shall be

constructed of solid concrete blocks. The stoppings shall be installed with mortared joints or

coated with a sealant that provides equivalent strength to a mortared joint installation. Overcasts

shall be constructed of concrete block with concrete and rail or I-beam construction. No ventilation

structures shall be constructed of aluminum.

(t) A safe travelway shall be maintained for each longwall panel through the tailgate side of the longwall

in accordance with 30 CFR 75.215 and 75.222. MSHA shall be notified immediately if a roof fall

occurs that impedes travel in a tailgate travelway or if a travelway otherwise becomes unsafe for

travel. A weekly examination of tailgate travelways shall be conducted by a qualified person and

the results recorded.

(u) Two separate communication lines shall be maintained. One shall be located in each of the two

entries during development.

(v) At least one self-contained self-rescuer shall be available for each person on the working section

and shall be stored on the section while advancing the two-entry panel. During longwall retreat

mining, self-contained self-rescuer units shall be stored near the face on the headgate and tailgate

sides of the longwall unit at readily accessible locations. Sufficient self-contained self-rescuer units

for all miners on the working section shall be stored at both locations. These locations shall be

specified in the storage plan approved by the District Manager.
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FIREFIGHTING AND EVACUATION PLAN

75.1101-23

Firefighting and Evacuation Plans at the Mine will consist of a program of instruction, location, and use of firefighting

equipment, location of escapeways, exits and routes of travel, evacuation procedures, and fire drills, which will involve

all employees.

1. All new employees undergoing orientation classes at the mine site are instructed during their underground training

session on the use and locations of fire suppression equipment in the working sections, location of escapeway

exits, routes of travel, evacuation procedure, and fire drills.

2. All employees will receive instruction on location and use of communications systems.

3. All miners will participate in a fire drill at intervals of not more than 90 days using attached procedures as

guidelines.

4. A firefighting and evacuation program will be available on each section, which will include delegations of specific

persons and responsibilities.

5. A written record shall be kept in a Fire Drill Record Book, to be located in the Safety Supervisor’s office.

6. If the automatic belt fire warning system alarms, the location indicated on the monitor will be investigated

immediately. If conditions are found to warrant evacuation, the firefighting plan will be implemented.

7. On units that incorporate intake/belt air, when the carbon monoxide system gives an alert or alarm signal, the

following shall be followed:

a. Alert Level: When the carbon monoxide monitoring system gives a visual or audible alert signal, all miners

in the working sections on the same split of air shall be notified immediately, and an investigation shall be

conducted to determine the cause of the actuation.

 

b. Alarm Level: When the carbon monoxide system gives an audible and visual alarm signal, all miners in the

same split(s) of air shall be withdrawn immediately to a safe location at least one sensor outby the sensor(s)

activating the alarm, unless the cause is known not to be a hazard to the miners. When the carbon monoxide

warning system gives an audible and visual alarm signal at shift change, no one shall be permitted to enter the

mine except qualified persons designated to investigate the source of the alarm. If miners are en route

underground, they shall be held at, or be withdrawn to, a safe location at least one sensor outby the sensor(s)

activating the alarm. When a determination is made as to the source of the alarm and that the mine is safe to

enter, the miners shall be permitted underground.

c. When the established carbon monoxide alert and alarm levels are reached, all working sections and other

locations where personnel are normally assigned to work (e.g., belt transfers) will be notified.
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In steps a, b, and c above, if it is determined that a fire exists and the fire is not extinguished within 15 min of

discovery, all persons not required for firefighting activities shall be evacuated from the mine immediate

8. When the carbon monoxide warning system gives an audible and visual alarm signal at shift charge, no one shall

be permitted to enter the mine except qualified persons designated to investigate the source of the alarm. If miners

are en route underground, they shall be held at, or be withdrawn to, a safe location at least one sensor outby the

sensor(s) activating the alarm. When a determination is made as to the source of the alarm and that the mine is

safe to enter, the miners shall be permitted underground.
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Procedure in Case of Fire Outby Sections

1. Directly attack fire.

2. Call Warehouse to report fire:

a. Give your name

b. Location calling from

c. Location of fire

3. Warehouse will then:

 

a. Notify Shift Mine Manager or other appropriate personnel and shut off all belts.

b. Notify all areas inby the fire to immediately remove all personnel to a location outby the fire, or to a safe

location at least one carbon monoxide sensor outby the carbon monoxide sensor(s) activating the alarm (if

applicable).

c. Alert all other sections of location of fire and direct supervisors of those sections to standby telephone and

be prepared to take additional firefighting equipment to fire or to evacuate mine.

d. Notify Mine Manager, General Mine Foreman, and Supervisor of Safety.

4. Establish ventilation to direct smoke directly to a return and keep fresh air to persons fighting the fire.

5. Call for additional firefighting equipment if needed. Direct this request to the Warehouse.

6. If fire is not extinguished within 15 min of discovery, all persons not required for firefighting activities will be

removed from the mine.

7. After evacuation is completed, Shift Mine Manager will check or have checked, the check-in board to see that

all tags are removed, and that all personnel not involved in the firefighting activity are out of the mine.
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Procedure in Case of Fire on Continuous Miner Section

Order of Leadership Duties To Perform

1. Foreman Supervise the operation.

2. Mechanic Shut power off, get tools ready; assist with getting extra hose

and other firefighting equipment, if needed.

3. Miner Operator Water hose off miner.

4. Miner Operator Operate water valve, get extra hose from emergency sled.

5. Coal Hauler #1 Operator Fire extinguishers.

6. Coal Hauler #2 Operator Fire extinguishers.

7. Coal Hauler #3 Operator Ventilation and rock dust; get Vari-X foam concentrate from

sled and operate the eductor.

8. Roof Bolter #1 Phone attendant.

9. Roof Bolter #2 Ventilation; get Vari-X from sled and operate Vari-X.

10.Utilityman Rock dust.

1. Directly attack fire.

2. Pull power at transformer.

3. Remove all persons from inby fire.

4. Call Warehouse and report fire.

Warehouse will then:

a. Notify Shift Mine Manager or other appropriate personnel and shut off all belts.

b. Alert all underground sections of location of fire.

c. Notify Mine Manager, General Mine Foreman, and Supervisor of Safety.

5. Establish ventilation to keep fresh air to persons fighting fire and direct smoke to return.

6. Call for additional firefighting equipment: material, cars, rock dust, etc.

7. If fire is not extinguished within 15 min of discovery, all personnel not required for firefighting will be removed

from the mine. Shift Mine Manager will direct evacuation of mine.

8. After evacuation is completed, Shift Mine Manager will check, or have checked, the check-in board to see

that all tags are removed and that all personnel not engaged in the firefighting activity are out of the mine
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Procedure in Case of Fire on Section

Order of Leadership Duties To Perform

1. Foreman Supervise the operation.

2. Mechanic Shut power off, get tools ready; assist with getting

extra hose and other firefighting equipment if needed

(e.g., Vari-X).

3. Technician Phone attendant.

4. Roof Bolter #1 Operate water valve, get extra hose, if needed.

5. Roof Bolter #2 Fire extinguishers and fire hose.

6. Mini Scoop Operator Fire extinguishers and fire hose.

7. Remote Scoop Operator Get rock dust and change ventilation, if needed.

1. Directly attack fire.

2. Pull power at transformer.

3. Remove all persons from inby fire.

4. Call Warehouse and report fire.

Warehouse will then:

a. Notify Shift Mine Manager or other appropriate personnel and shut off belts.

b. Alert all underground sections of location of fire.

c. Notify Mine Manager, General Mine Foreman, and Supervisor of Safety.

5. Establish ventilation to keep fresh air to persons fighting fire and direct smoke to return.

6. Call for additional firefighting equipment: material, cars, rock dust, etc.
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7. If fire is not extinguished within 15 min of discovery, all personnel not required for firefighting will be removed

from the mine. Shift Mine Manager will direct evacuation of mine.

8. Diesel foam generator may be used to indirectly attack the fire.

9. After evacuation is completed, the Shift Mine Manager will check, or have checked, the check-in board to

see that all tags are removed and that all personnel not engaged in the firefighting activity are out of the mine.
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Procedure for Evacuation on Continuous Miner Section

Order of Leadership Duties To Perform

Foreman Direct the procedure. First-aid kit and escape map.

Mechanic Shut off power and take nails, hammer, and spads, etc.

Miner Operator Saw, pick, and shovel.

Miner Operator Helper Sledge hammer and extra SCSRs.

Roof Bolters Spads, nails, brattice cloth.

Coal Hauler Operators Get all lunch buckets and clothing from dinner hole.

Utilityman Brattice cloth and first-aid equipment.

Know Your Escape Routes:

1. Account for all of the personnel on the section.

2. Be sure that each miner has a self-rescuer, and take all the extra rescuers with you.

3. Explain the escape route to the entire crew. Direct air to return not designated as alternate escapeway.

Attempt to travel the primary escapeway. If smoke is encountered, proceed to the alternate escapeway. The

foreman will lead the group with second-in-command bringing up rear to prevent stragglers.

4. Move fast, but do not run. At frequent intervals, check the mandoors to see if you are past the fire area.

When past the fire area, you may travel in either escapeway and continue exiting the mine.
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Procedure for Evacuation on CM Section

Order of Leadership Duties To Perform

Foreman Direct the procedure. First-aid kit and escape map.

Mechanic Shut off power and take nails, hammer, and spads, etc.

Technician Saw, pick, shovel, and sledge hammer.

Roof Bolter #1 Spads, nails, and brattice cloth.

Roof Bolter #2 Get extra SCSRs.

Mini Scoop Operator Get all lunch buckets and clothing from dinner hole.

Remote Scoop Operator Brattice cloth and first-aid equipment.

Know Your Escape Routes:

1. Account for all of the personnel on the section.

2. Be sure that each miner has a self-rescuer, and take all the extra rescuers with you.

3. Explain the escape route to the entire crew. Direct air to return not designated as alternate escapeway.

Attempt to travel the primary escapeway. If smoke is encountered, proceed to the alternate escapeway. The

foreman will lead the group with second-in-command bringing up rear to prevent stragglers.

4. Move fast, but do not run. At frequent intervals, check the mandoors to see if you are past the fire area.

When past the fire area, you may travel in either escapeway and continue exiting the mine.
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FIREFIGHTING AND EVACUATION DUTIES

Precautions:

In the event that a miner should smell smoke, sees a fire, or possibly identifies a fire prior to an alarm, the miner will

communicate this immediately and follow the Firefighting and Evacuation Plan.

Firefighting Duties:

Each miner will be instructed in the following firefighting duties:

I. Continuous Miner Sections (Production)

a. Section Foreman

1. The foreman is responsible for all firefighting evacuation and communication procedures.

2. The section power and equipment are to be secured.

3. Section ventilation changes are to be directed by the foreman.

4. Assembly of miners for evacuation is to be directed by the foreman.

b. Miner Operator

If the fire is on the miner:

1. Deenergize the miner (on board).

2. Activate the fire suppression.

3. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

c. Miner Helper

If the fire is on the miner:

1. Deenergize the trailing cable.

2. Notify the foreman.

3. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

If the fire is on the section, the miner operator and helper are to:

1. Secure the miner.

2. Deenergize the trailing cable.

3. Disconnect the miner water hose, attach fire nozzle, and await firefighting instructions.
148

d. Shuttle Car Operations

If the fire is on the shuttle car:

1. Set the brakes.

2. Deenergize the on-board power.

3. Activate the fire suppression.

4. Deenergize the trailing cable.

5. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

6. Notify the foreman.

If the fire is on the section:

1. Secure the car.

2. Deenergize the trailing cable.

3. Locate appropriate firefighting equipment to assist in firefighting and assemble at the crew station.

e. Roof Bolter

If the fire is on the roof bolter:

1. Deenergize the bolter (on board).

2. Activate the fire suppression.

3. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

f. Roof Bolter Helper

If the fire is on the bolter:

1. Deenergize the trailing cable.

2. Notify the foreman.

3. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

If the fire is on the section, the roof bolter and helper are to:

1. Secure the bolter.

2. Locate appropriate firefighting equipment to assist in firefighting and assemble at the crewstation.
149

g. Bratticeman

If the fire is on the section:

1. Locate appropriate firefighting equipment and assemble at the crewstation.

2. Notify and assemble any nonproduction miners on the section.

h. Mechanic

If the fire is on the section:

1. Assemble appropriate firefighting equipment.

2. Determine that section power is secured.

3. Assist the foreman as directed.

i. Material Man

If the fire is on the section:

1. Start and prepare the mantrip for evacuation.

2. Assemble SCSR units in storage for use.

3. Establish communications with the surface, shift foreman, or designated person in charge.

If the fire is not on the section:

1. Notify the section foreman of the fire.

2. Establish communications with the surface.

3. All face personnel are to assemble at the crewstation.

4. All persons are to evacuate the mine or follow firefighting instructions from the shift foreman or

designated person in charge.

II. Continuous Miner Section (Maintenance Shift)

a. Maintenance Foreman

1. The foreman is responsible for all firefighting and evacuation procedures.

2. The section power and equipment are to be secured.

3. Section ventilation changes are to be directed by the foreman.

4. Assembly of miners for evacuation is to be directed by the foreman.
150

b. Mechanics

If the fire is on equipment being serviced or repaired or on service equipment:

1. Deenergize the machine (on board).

2. Activate the fire suppression.

3. Deenergize the trailing cable.

4. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

5. Notify the foreman.

III. Longwall Section (Production)

a. Section Foreman

1. The foreman is responsible for all firefighting and evacuation procedures.

2. The section power and equipment are to be secured.

3. Section ventilation changes are to be directed by the foreman.

4. Assembly of miners for evacuation is to be directed by the foreman.

b. Shear Operators

If the fire is on the shear:

1. Deenergize the shear (on board).

2. Activate the suppression.

3. Notify the foreman.

4. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

If the fire is on the face:

1. Notify the foreman.

2. Leave shear sprays on.

3. Activate and use an SCSR unit.

4. Move to the stageloader and assemble at the crewstation.

c. Shield Operators

If the fire is inby:

1. Move to the crewstation.

2. Obtain appropriate firefighting equipment to assist in firefighting.

3. Await instructions.
151

If the fire is outby:

1. Notify the foreman.

2. Activate and use an SCSR unit.

3. Move to the stageloader and outby to the crewstation.

4. Locate and use appropriate firefighting equipment.

d. Headgate Operator

1. Deenergize the longwall at the stageloader.

2. Notify the foreman and crew.

3. Use a fire extinguisher on a stageloader fire.

4. Establish communications with the surface.

5. Notify the shift foreman or person in charge.

6. Remain in contact with the surface.

7. Relay information about the fire.

e. Mechanic

1. Disconnect power at power center.

2. Locate all available fire extinguishers and move them to the stageloader.

f. Utilityman

1. Start and prepare the mantrip for evacuation.

2. Assemble SCSR units in storage for use.

3. Notify and assemble any nonproduction miners on the section.

IV. Outby Areas

a. Use any firefighting equipment that is readily available.

b. Disconnect power from the affected area or equipment.

c. Notify the surface of the fire and conditions.

d. Obtain additional firefighting equipment for use on the fire.
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V. Shift Foremen

a. Evacuate all miners not required for firefighting.

b. Coordinate and dispatch personnel and equipment for firefighting.

c. Implement the Notification Plan.

d. Account for the location of all miners on shift.

Firefighting and Mine Rescue Mobilization:

Mine rescue and/or firefighting crews will be notified by pager or telephone, as appropriate, and will be assembled

at the mine rescue station.

Diesel mantrips and other diesel equipment that might be available will be assembled at the bathhouse area to be used

as transportation of mine rescue crews, rescue apparatus, firefighting crews, and fire suppression equipment.

All firefighting operations shall be conducted from the fresh air side of a fire.

Mine rescue teams will not operate inby a fire without specific permission of the mine emergency controller.

Self-Rescuer Program of Instruction:

The Program of Instruction will be presented to all experienced miners at least annually and will be included as part

of the 8-hr annual training program required by 30 CFR 48.8(a).

The Program of Instruction will be presented to newly hired miners and will be presented as part of the training

required for inexperienced miners and newly hired experienced miners prior to assigning them to work duties.

Self-Contained Self-Rescuer:

The recommended “hands-on” training method will be used to train miners on the SCSR units.
153

PROCEDURE AND DUTIES FOR FIRE

To follow up on the recent training you received on the Vari-X foam generator, the following procedures have been

developed to communicate to all employees their responsibilities in the event of a fire on a section.

ORDER OF LEADERSHIP DUTIES TO PERFORM

1. Foreman Supervise the operation.

2. Mechanic Shut off power, get tools ready.

3. Miner Operator Water-hose off miner.

4. Miner Operator Operate water valve, get extra hose from emergency sled.

5. Coal Hauler #1 Operator Fire extinguishers.

6. Coal Hauler #2 Operator Fire extinguishers.

7. Coal Hauler #3 Operator Ventilation and rock dust; get Vari-X foam concentrate from

sled and operate the eductor.

8. Roof Bolter #1 Phone attendant.

9. Roof Bolter #2 Ventilation/get Vari-X from sled and operate Vari-X.

10.Utilityman Rock dust.

1. Directly attack fire.

2. Pull power at transformer.

3. Remove all persons from inby fire.

4. Call Communications Center/Warehouse and report fire. Communication Center/Warehouse will:

a. Alert all underground sections of location of fire.

b. Notify Mine Manager, Mine Superintendent, and Health & Safety Supervisor.

c. Notify Shift Supervisor to alert idle crews not working on the section of the fire.

5. Establish ventilation to keep fresh air to persons fighting fire, and direct smoke to return.

 NOTE: All fire hose outlets are equipped with an adapter to allow attachment of a 1.5-in fire hose. Extra
154

LONGWALL FIREFIGHTING PLAN

IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, THE LISTED PEOPLE

WILL ASSUME THE FOLLOWING DUTIES

Longwall repairman: Deenergize all power, then proceed

to

 the telephone and coordinate all phone messages.

Other personnel on section: Assemble at fire skid.

Operators: Begin laying 1-3/4-in hose to fire areas.

Utilitymen: Begin laying 5-in feeder hose to fire area.

Supervisor: Contact all employees and communications.

PROCEDURES

CHECK THAT:

1. All power has been removed.

2. Communications has been notified.

3. All personnel are assembled at the fire skid.

4. Notify Communications that all employees are

accounted

 for and action to be taken.

5. Advise employees of the plan of attack and

firefighting.

6. Report status of fire to Communication Coordinator

 every 10 min. If fire is not under control in 15

min,

 evacuate the section.

In case of 

FIRE ON THE SECTION

REPAIRMAN----------------Call communications

MINER OPERATOR--------Shut off section power

MINER HELPER------------Water hose and rock dust

SCOOP OPERATOR--------Water hose and rock dust

UTILITYMAN---------------Water hose and rock dust

ROOF BOLTERS------------Fire extinguishers

SHUTTLE CAR OP’S-------Assist as directed

SECTION FOREMAN------Direct firefighting

Report Status of Fire to Communications

Coordinator Every 10 Minutes.

If Fire is Not Under Control in 

15 Minutes, Evacuate the Section!

adapters are located in the bottom of each fire hose barrel and on the emergency sled should one of the

outlet adapters be damaged.

SPECIFIC INDIVIDUAL DUTY LABELS IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE

WHEN ESCAPE IS CUT OFF

1. BARRICADE

2. LISTEN for 3 shots, then...

3. SIGNAL by pounding hard 10 times

4. REST 15 min, then REPEAT signal

until...

5. YOU HEAR 5 SHOTS, which means

you are located and help is on the way.
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MINE FIRE TRAINING PROGRAM

1. Mine fire training can be divided into the following three areas: 

a. Basic training for all miners. 

b. Intermediate training for mine fire brigades/mine rescue. 

c. Advanced training for fire brigades/mine rescue.

2. The basic fire training for all miners may consist of the following and could be conducted aboveground: 

a. Basic fire chemistry (classes of fires, fire triangle, smoke, heat). 

b. Assessment of containability of fightable fires. 

c. Types of portable fire extinguishers, hose lines, and water nozzles. 

d. Extinguishing a liquid fuel and solid fuel fire with portable fire extinguishers. 

e. Extinguishing a solid fuel fire with water lines. 

f. Paper-and-pencil simulations on fighting a small mine fire. 

g. Mine evacuation procedures. 

h. Understanding the operation of fire sensors (thermal, smoke, CO). 

3. Intermediate training for mine fire brigades/mine rescue basic fire training, plus the following: 

a. Use of handheld and large foam generators. 

b. Turnout gear and equipment used for firefighting. 

c. Fighting fires in smoke, wearing SCBAs. 

d. Paper-and-pencil simulations on fighting fires outby the section. 

e. Firefighting strategies: underground fire houses, fire cars, or trailers.

4. Advanced firefighting training would include all of the skills acquired in the basic and intermediate levels, plus the

following:

a. Combating simulated mine fires in ventilated entries with portable and wheeled fire extinguishers, water lines,

and foam generators. The fires would include equipment fires, conveyor belt fires, etc.

b. Erecting seals to isolate fire areas.

c. Examining the effect of ventilation on fires and regulating air during a fire.
156

FIRE DRILL SIMULATIONS

Unannounced simulation fire drills were conducted. The drills were designed to test the response actions of production

crew personnel, including the Section Foremen responding to a fire/smoke emergency. Since each unit has unique

mining and ventilation systems, drill locations were selected based on greatest potential for occurrence. Each drill

lasted approximately 15 to 20 min, and a critique was held immediately following the drill. These drills were

conducted concurrent with MEO requirements designed to evaluate OIMS System 10-2 - Emergency Response.

This memo includes a brief description of each simulation scenario and documents key recommendations made by

observers and participants.

Drill Scenario Unit #3:

At 9:45 a.m.., the Section Foreman observed smoke leaking through the flame-resistant isolation curtains located at

the Unit Battery Charging Station. The smoke was contaminating entry No. 2, which is the intake airway for that

section.

Summary of Key Response Activities:

Section Foreman:

• Notified Communications of situation and advised him to notify Fire Brigade.

• Advised Scoop Operator to deenergize unit power center.

• Notified crew members to evacuate face area and assemble outby smoke location.

Crew Members:

• Four members brought fire extinguishers to smoke location.

• One member ensured that incoming power cable was deenergized prior to entering fire location.

• Several crew members installed line brattice to short-circuit smoke to return airway.

• Several crew members obtained SCSRs from storage location at power center and carried them to the fire location.

Critique:

• The crew/FLS responded promptly and orderly, although one crew member was not aware of emergency situation.

• Many crew members were aware of the unit fire skid, but were not familiar with assembly procedures of the

advanced firefighting equipment.

• One fire extinguisher brought to the fire location was in very poor condition (if even operable).

Drill Scenario Unit #2:

At 11:10 a.m., the Section Foreman discovered smoke on the inby end of the unit power center located in entry No.

5 several crosscuts outby the face area.
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Summary of Key Response Activities:

Section Foreman:

• Notified Communications of the situation and advised him to notify the Fire Brigade.

• Notified section repairman to deenergize unit power center.

• Notified crew members to evacuate the face area via the intake escapeway to a location just outby the smoke area.

• Advised responding crew members to remove smoke by coursing fresh air from an adjacent intake airway using

line brattice.

Crew Members:

• Several members brought fire extinguishers to the smoke location.

• One crew member obtained a roll of line brattice.

• One crew member brought pipe wrenches to break the water hose so that water would be available, if needed.

• Remaining crew members (less one who was not informed of the situation) assembled outby the fire area to assist

the initial responders.

Critique:

• Crew members responded promptly and took immediate action.

• As stated above, one crew member was not informed of the situation.

• Crew members were not aware of unit fire skid location or assembly procedures required to use their advanced

firefighting equipment stored on the skid.

Drill Scenario Unit #1:

At 12:15 p.m., the Section Foreman observed smoke entering the section from the No. 2 entry. Upon investigation,

he discovered that the scoop tractor was on fire. The unit had just begun a power and belt retraction.

Summary of Key Response Activities:

Section Foreman:

• Notified Communications of the situation and advised him to assemble the Fire Brigade.

• Notified section repairman to deenergize the unit power center.

• Notified crew members to evacuate the face area via escape routes and to approach the fire area from fresh air

(outby) side.

Crew Members:

• Three members obtained fire extinguishers from various locations and used them to extinguish the fire from the fresh

air side.

• Three other members began laying fire hose to the fire location. Hose was obtained from the unit fire skid.
158

• One non-crew member carried SCSRs from the headgate to the fire area.

• Remaining crew members assembled outby the fire location to form a labor pool.

Critique:

• Crew members responded promptly and took immediate action.

• Two surveyors working in the section were not notified of the emergency. After observing the crew members

exiting the face area, they decided to investigate.

• Several crew members stated that had they been operating the longwall and working on the face under similar

circumstances, they would evacuate via the tailgate escapeway. It was suggested that all crew members using this

escape route notify Communications so that the Section Foreman and responding personnel were aware of their

location.

Areas for Improvement

IMPROVEMENT ACTIVITIES RESPONSIBILITY TARGET DATE

Identify the best means to notify persons working in

the unit of an emergency.

WTC Month/year

Evaluate the current SCSR storage location in all

units, and determine if a better location exists for

each working section.

Safety Department Month/year

Evaluate the current SCSR storage containers for

the best possible protection from damage and/or

contamination.

Safety Department Month/year

Train all crew members on proper assembly

procedures for advanced firefighting equipment

stored in the unit fire skids.

Fire Brigade Month/year

Conduct unannounced fire drills at least once per

year.

Safety Department/

Mine Superintendent

Begin during

month/year
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SELECTION PROCEDURES FOR NEW EMERGENCY RESPONSE MEMBERS

1. Post notice on bulletin boards informing all employees of any vacancy.

C The vacancy notice will be posted by management in a conspicuous place at the mine for a period of 5 calendar

days, but no less than 3 production days. All employees absent from work due to illness or other legitimate

reasons during the posting period will be notified by management of the vacancy. An employee on leave of

absence working for local, district, or International Union, if he/she so requests, shall be notified by management

of the vacancy. The employer will, on the date of the posting, give notice to such employees of the vacancy by

certified mail to their last known address. (This is the same as the contract job bidding procedures.)

C Vacancy notices will also be posted on the salaried bulletin boards located in foremen’s conference room and in

the mail room.

C All department heads and shift managers will be given copies of the notice of vacancy and will advise all minorities,

women, and staff personnel of the vacancy. This will ensure that all affirmative action guidelines are met. Each

manager will return to the Training Coordinator the list of minorities and/or staff personnel with the date that each

employee was advised of said vacancy. This list shall be retained for the current year plus 2 years.

2. Notices should direct interested employee(s) to the Training Coordinator in charge of the emergency response

teams.

3. The Training Coordinator will briefly explain what is expected of the particular emergency response team

members. This should include, but is not limited to, physical expectations, training requirements, and member

duties. At this time, the applicant will be given a questionnaire to complete and return to the Training Coordinator

within a specified time.

4. Those employees still interested will be instructed to sign a registration form located in the Training Office. This

list will be available for 2 weeks after notice of vacancy is taken down.

5. This list will be reviewed by the Human Resources Supervisor to determine if there are any applicants that are

covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If so, the Human Resources Supervisor will advise the Training

Coordinator.
160

 6. After registration is closed, each interested employee will be interviewed for the position. Two interviewers will

be present; one will be the Training Coordinator and another interviewer to be named.

 7. The Accident and Absenteeism history will be pulled from the archives and will be reviewed and discussed with

the individual. This history should be pulled for the current year plus 2 previous years.

 8. Interviewer should tell in detail what the expectations are of the particular response team members. Also, the

interviewer should ask what the applicant expects to get from being a response team member.

 9. Applicants will be asked if they have any experience as firefighters, rescue team members, or members of any

other emergency response teams.

10.The interviewers will use a summary form to rate the applicants. The name of the selected candidate shall be

submitted to the Mine Superintendent for approval. The remaining pool or list of candidates will be retained for

1 year. Any vacancies that occur within this period will be filled from the applicants listed in this pool.
161

REQUIREMENTS FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAMS

INITIAL MEDICAL EVALUATION

Step 1 - Health Risk Assessment (HRA)

C Required of all response team members.

C Will be used for informational purposes only.

Step 2 - Health Risk Followup and Additional Testing

C Present results of the Health Risk Assessment.

C Complete the medical questionnaires.

C Lab work - blood and urinalysis.

C Conduct pulmonary function.

Step 3 - Doctor’s Examination

C Continue to use the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health form for mine rescue personnel.

C Perform the Step Test.

C Recommend further evaluation(s) if indicated.

C Stress test required if over age 45.

C Complete Notification of Exam Results Memorandum.

PERIODIC MEDICAL EVALUATION

C Minimum fitness requirements should be met at all times.

C Same format as the initial evaluation, except no Health Risk Assessment.

C Continue annual National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health exam for mine rescue team members.

C Medical evaluation every 3 years if under age 45.

C Evaluation every 2 years if age 45 or older.

C Members will complete the cardiovascular risk analysis questionnaire in the off years.

TEAM MEMBER THAT FALLS SHORT OF MINIMUM STANDARD

C Notification of Exam Results Memorandum forwarded to employee and Health Risk Assessment (HRA) Team
162

C HRA Team includes Training Specialist, Safety Superintendent, and Administration Superintendent.

C HRA Team makes recommendation to Operations Superintendent.

C Doctor must reexamine individual before he/she can reinstated on team or returned to normal duty.

PROCEDURES FOR FIT TESTING EQUIPMENT

C Annual fit test required for face masks.

C Beard/facial hair

- Fire Brigade members - no beards allowed

- Mine Rescue members - must remove beards for annual fit testing and prior to emergency response.
163

TRAINING OF FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERS

Fire brigade members are trained in coal mine firefighting and coal mine fire prevention. In the event of a fire, their

training skills will be utilized in controlling a fire. This training is done by the methods listed below:

1. Monthly meeting in which various techniques are practiced and discussed.

2. Outside experts are invited to lecture and train the fire brigade.

3. Certain members of fire brigade are chosen to attend training sessions provided by government agencies, schools,

and fire services. These sessions usually include classroom lectures, discussion, and a liberal amount of “handson” training.

These new skills and techniques are then shared with the rest of the fire brigade and mine rescue team members. The

members are asked to write a brief paper describing and explaining what they had seen, heard, and done.

FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERS TRAINING OTHER MINERS

Safety management here feels it is best to utilize fire brigade and mine rescue team members to train all employees in

the areas of fire prevention, firefighting techniques, and firefighting equipment. Since we are trained in these areas on

a regular basis, safety management feels that we are best equipped to share our knowledge and experience with our

coworkers. At our annual refresher, we have been asked to be instructors on such items as the foam generator,

handheld fire extinguisher, and hose and nozzle handling techniques.
164

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR

FIRE ATTACK OF THE FIRE BRIGADE

1. Contact Communication Coordinator

• Arrival time

• Brigade members on scene

• Conditions upon arrival

• Action to be taken

2. Establish command

• Establish a fresh air base

• Secure evacuation transportation

• Form a plan of attack

• Check equipment

• Radio check

3. Execute attack

• Rescue

• Exposures

• Confinement

• Extinguish

• Overhaul

4. Terminate incident
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DONNING PROCEDURES FOR PA-80 SCBA

 1. Push demand regulator to donning mode.

 2. Turn cylinder valve on and compare gauges.

 3. Don the SCBA.

 4. Don the face mask.

 5. Insert the demand regulator in face mask.

 6. Check positive pressure.

 7. Check bypass function.

 8. Check face mask seal. Shut cylinder valve off. Watch chest gauge fall to zero and listen for warning whistle.

 9. Turn O2

 valve back on and watch gauge.

10. Put Nomex hood over face mask.