Hosted by Mirarco of Laurentian University, the event has been scheduled for June 13 to 17, 2010 in Sudbury, Ontario and follows up two successful gatherings – in Reno, Nevada last year and at the Pennsylvania State University in 2006.

“This symposium will provide a forum for the exchange of mine ventilation knowledge and R&D experience amongst experts from industry, government, academia and the supply sector,” said organisers of the symposium, who noted that it will also include mine tours, a banquet and a demonstration of Laurentian University’s Virtual Reality Laboratory, which is operated by Mirarco.

Before the conference start, three short courses on diesel emissions/control, heat stress in underground mining and mine ventilation will be offered. The technical session itinerary includes concurrent sessions in topics such as numerical modelling, ventilation optimisation, design and planning, airborne particulates, coal mine methane spontaneous combustion, mine seals, occupational health, and regulations.

Those wishing to present at the symposium are invited to submit an abstract of 300 words to the university’s Dale Lawrence McKinnon by September 1 of this year. Those who are accepted will be contacted by October 1 with manuscript potentials due shortly after. Final manuscripts will be due to the organising committee by February 8, 2010.

Registration is required for the conference. The university noted that the event as well as the optional workshops and field trips may be eligible for professional certifications.