To aid in prevention, preparedness and response, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has developed an “Underground Coal Mine Fire Preparedness and Response Checklist” which profiles both the fire preparedness and response capabilities of a mine. The checklist encompasses conditions, equipment and procedures that have frequently been identified as causing underground mine fires.

Fire prevention engineer Ron Conti said the checklist serves as a data collection instrument for determining both the fire preparedness and response capabilities of an underground mine.

“The questions are designed to trigger a thought pattern. When the checklist is completed and you have lots of blanks, you may have some issues you need to examine more closely,” Conti said.

“The completed checklist provides an instant picture of the preparedness of the mine to prevent or respond to a fire and identifies areas that need to be strengthened.”

Fire is a major concern for those who work underground. A mine fire can occur at any time and often results in a partial or total evacuation of mine personnel.

Historically, mine fires have caused fatalities, injuries, and economic losses totalling hundreds of millions of dollars.

“Therefore, a workforce that is well trained to prevent, detect, and fight a fire is important,” Conti said.

“It is also paramount for miners to maintain and know their escape routes. A fully implemented fire preparedness and response plan is essential in reducing the probability and seriousness of a mine fire.”

The checklist takes about two or three days to complete. At least one day is needed underground to evaluate the water system. This entails many measurements of water flows and pressures at fire hydrants, and water throw distances of fire hoses and nozzles at several locations.

A few of the other topics that are discussed with key mine personnel include detection and suppression systems, combustible materials, mine rescue team, fire brigades and firefighting equipment.

The checklist was developed by NIOSH, together with Cyprus Amax Twentymile Coal Company. Numerous field tests were conducted in operating coal mines to test and refine the document.

The checklist entitled “An Underground Coal Mine Fire Preparedness and Response Checklist: The Instrument” IC 9452 Information Circular/2000 can be obtained from pubstaft@cdc.gov free of charge or downloaded from www.cdc.gov/niosh