It is vital to monitor the gas and environmental levels of mining gases. To detect atmospheric gas concentrations, there are portable and fixed devices.
Fixed gas monitors provide continuous readings from a fixed location. Fixed gas monitors should be distributed throughout buildings and mine sites. These site-wide warning devices relay data from one area to the control room, and then across the safety network. Alerts and safety precautions can be activated if abnormal gas levels are detected. Fixed systems can also be used to remotely close down an area and isolate the danger, as well as ensure safety for all personnel in an emergency.
The personal portable gas monitors allow for mobility and can be carried around the site. Alert systems will be activated if levels exceed acceptable limits. Individuals can then take appropriate action to reduce the risk.
Guidelines and Regulations for Gas Monitoring
Many countries have mandatory monitoring of gas levels at mines as part of safety guidelines and. Here are some examples:
The Mines Safety and Inspection Regulation 95 in Western Australia outlines the legal requirements for occupational health and safety standards of gases like methane and carbon dioxide.
The UK Health and Safety Executive Mines Regulations (2014) gives guidance and practical applications regarding monitoring gas levels within mines for underground managers, ventilation officers, and employees working in the mining industry.
This post was written by Justin Tidd, Director at Becker Global America! For over 15 years, Becker Communications has been the industry’s leader in increasingly more sophisticated electrical mining communication systems. As they expanded into surface mining, railroads, and tunneling they added wireless communication systems, handheld radios, tagging, and tracking systems, as well as gas monitoring.
