MSHA Technical Review of Proposed Mine Designs for U.S. Underground Coal Mines

摘要

Ground fall injuries and fatalities in United States undergroundcoal mines have shown a diminishing trend. Advances in boltingand standing support systems have led to improved safety inunderground coal mines. However, the Crandall Canyon Minedisaster in 2007, in which 9 individuals were fatally injured as aresult of a widespread collapse, emphasized that proper minedesign is a critical issue that must be addressed. The Mine Safetyand Health Administration (MSHA) has instituted technical reviewprocedures structured to facilitate the implementation of safe minedesigns in underground coal mines.The technical review process and the typical informationrequired are outlined in this paper. The range of mining situationsthat lead to a technical review, common design methods submittedfor review, and their relevant guidelines and limitations are alsodiscussed. Additionally, the relationship between design criteriaand mine site historical experience is discussed.