Australian coal miners using Draeger self-rescuers are apparently using different devices from those in the US recently found to contain chemical dust. The Oxy K Plus is approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for sale in the US. Australian miners use the Oxybok K, which is a different model, Drager Australia said.
A warning in June by the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) said chemical dust had been detected in the breathing circuits of some Draeger OXY-K-Plus Self-Contained Self-Rescue (SCSR) devices.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) a preliminary investigation found significant amounts of chemical dust Potassium Superoxide - KO2 - in the breathing bag, breathing hose and mouthpiece on several devices, used by miners for emergency breathing .
Usually, according to MSHA, trace amounts of KO2 are not harmful because they are neutralized by a persons' exhaled breath. However, significant amounts of KO2, as found in the breathing circuit on several of these devices, could result in physical harm to the user. Inhalation of this chemical dust could cause severe respiratory tract irritation and possible internal burns.
"Although it is not known yet how many devices are affected by this problem, it is extremely important to get the word out immediately so we can prevent any possible injuries from occurring," ASSE President Frank Perry, PE, CSP, said today. "We urge people to get the word out, to check carefully for the described device and to contact MSHA officials immediately if they find defective devices or if they have any questions."
The ASSE advised mine operators to conduct a visual examination of their Draeger Oxy-K-Plus SCSR devices by following the manufacturer's approved condition-of-use requirements. It was recommended that the device be shaken lightly and the operator then listen for any distinct noise. It has been found that the devices with a significant amount of KO2 in the breather circuit gave off a higher-than-normal amount of noise when shaken. Any devices that fail the manufacturer's approved condition-of-use requirements or make a distinct noise when shaken should be taken out of service immediately, said the ASSE.
Drager Australia said it was important that the Oxy K Plus not be confused with the Oxybok K widely used in Australia.
"If we hear of any official statement about the issue in the United States, we will advise," the company said.
