MSHA issues hazard alert on seasonal ground falls

In a recent safety alert, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) reminds mine operators to regularly review and update roof and ground control plans.

Seasonal conditions can introduce moisture into the environment, causing changes in ground stability or mining methods. These changes can increase the risk of roof and ground falls. To reduce risks, the agency offers the following tips:

• Train all miners, supervisors, and contractors to recognize roof hazards and changing ground conditions.
• Conduct frequent pre-shift and on-shift examinations and share hazards and corrective actions between shifts.
• Maintain drainage, divert inflows, pump accumulations, and reinspect ground and supports after wet or freeze-thaw periods.
• Scale loose ground from a safe position using long-handled bars or mechanical scalers.
• Berm, barricade, clearly mark, or seal areas that are no longer needed or that present ground-control hazards.
• Instruct miners to identify and mitigate hazards and violations.