Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) reports that
between Sept. 8, 2013 and Sept. 15, 2013, seven roof falls occurred in the
mining industry on working sections after the roofs had been bolted. MSHA warns
that these types of roof falls are especially dangerous because they occur
where most miners are working.
To reduce the risk of falling in these situations, MSHA
offers the following tips:
- Make frequent examinations and be aware of changing conditions and their effects on safety.
- Know and follow the approved roof control plan.
- If adverse conditions are detected or anticipated, install additional roof and/or rib support.
- Use supplemental support for immediate roof control. Examples include screen, steel straps, header boards and larger roof bolt plates.
- When retreat mining, withdraw equipment immediately if the roof becomes unstable.
- Use test holes to check for cracks and other hazards above the roof bolts.
- If unusual roof or rib conditions are found, tell mine management and other miners.
- Never travel under an unsupported roof.
Find more MSHA information on roof and rib safety here.