Safety in Underground Mines: A PPE Checklist

Underground mining operations around the world pose similar risks to worker safety and health. Though different techniques are used to extract base metals, precious metals, non-metallic minerals, diamonds and coal, the hazards do not differ that much. The deeper the mine, however, the greater the risk...

Experienced miners know what gear they need to prevent or at least minimize injuries on the job. For newcomers, however, it’s important to include information on selecting PPE in their training. Manufacturers of PPE have made significant improvements in the materials they use. Take a look at what you’re using for PPE. It might be time for change. 

           
Protective Clothing This may include rain gear, head gear, high-visibility jackets and coveralls, flash-rated, all-cotton coveralls and clothing with reflective stripes such as those worn by bikers and runners.  

Fall Protection While typically not a major issue in underground mines, working at different heights is sometimes required in mountainous mines or raised goldmines where ladders and scaffolds are needed. In these situations, make sure you have the proper harnesses, belts and other safeguards to prevent falling.                                
           
Work Gloves Special tasks require specific gloves. Today’s glove manufacturers have made significant improvements in glove designs, using lighter-weight and more breathable fabrics. Some of these materials even offer better cut and puncture resistance. Take a look at the gloves your workers are using. There may be better options available.
           
Footwear Enhancements in footwear have made industrial footwear even better. Today’s work boots are higher to prevent ankle rollover. Specially insulated boots can protect feet in both extreme cold and heat. Sole platforms are now wider and thicker to provide surer footing and better balance.

Eye Protection In addition to LED-lighted hard hats, many miners require safety glasses. Today’s eyewear designs include improved scratch abrasion and fog resistance.

Hearing Protection Mine blasting and excessive noise generated by diesel-powered equipment can cause lasting damage to miners’ hearing. Hearing protection in the form of earplugs and coverings can be used, depending on the ambient decibel levels in work areas.

Employers need to provide the right PPE to every employee to protect the life, health and safety of the workforce, as well as to protect valuable worksites and assets. As leading mining organizations already know, creating a safe working environment means a more productive and profitable mining operation. 

Looking for affordable PPE - contact L&A Safety and place your order today, or pop into one of the branches in Robertson, Vredenburg or Cape Town!

PPE – Body Protection

Employees who face possible bodily injury of any kind that cannot be eliminated through engineering, work practice or administrative controls, must wear appropriate body protection while performing their jobs. In addition to cuts and radiation, the following are examples of workplace hazards that could cause bodily injury:

-- Temperature extremes;

-- Hot splashes from molten metals and other hot liquids;

-- Potential impacts from tools, machinery and materials;

-- Hazardous chemicals.

There are many varieties of protective clothing available for specific hazards. Employers are required to ensure that their employees wear personal protective equipment only for the parts of the body exposed to possible injury. Examples of body protection include laboratory coats, coveralls, vests, jackets, aprons, surgical gowns and full body suits.

If a hazard assessment indicates a need for full body protection against toxic substances or harmful physical agents, the clothing should be carefully inspected before each use, it must fit each worker properly and it must function properly and for the purpose for which it is intended.

Protective clothing comes in a variety of materials, each effective against particular hazards, such as:

Paper-like fibre used for disposable suits provide protection against dust and splashes.

Treated wool and cotton adapts well to changing temperatures, is comfortable and fire-resistant and protects against dust, abrasions and rough and irritating surfaces.

Duck is a closely woven cotton fabric that protects against cuts and bruises when handling heavy, sharp or rough materials.

Leather is often used to protect against dry heat and flames.

Rubber, rubberized fabrics, neoprene and plastics protect against certain chemicals and physical hazards. When chemical or physical hazards are present, check with the clothing manufacturer to ensure that the material selected will provide protection against the specific hazard.

Looking for reliable PPE at an affordable price? Contact L&A Safety and place your order, or pop in to one of the branches in Vredenburg, Robertson or Cape Town!