Working in the mining industry has always been a risky business, and many people would die while on duty throughout the year back in the day. The rate of deaths that occur in mining fields have significantly gone down thanks to the many different mining precautions miners have taken and the mining industry is keen on implementing. Apart from the precautions there have been underground mining technology advancements that have reduced the number of accidents in mines.

Look at a case where a coal mine in the South West of China claimed 22 lives. So far, China has been documented to have some of the most dangerous mines to work in with the authorities scrambling desperately to try and enforce some of the mining safety precautions to make the mines a less-dangerous place for the miners and mining equipment alike. So, here are some of the safety precautions you can exercise as a miner to ensure you don’t fall prey to the mining dangers.

1. Don’t ignore the danger

This is the first step you can take toward keeping yourself and your mining equipment safe. You obviously know that working in the mines is a hazardous business. It is vital that you always stay alert and on the lookout for any signs of impending danger even as you work. Never let your guard down as accidents can occur at any moment.

2. Dangerous tasks need proper planning and communication

Whenever you are given a task, don’t rush in its planning all in an effort to complete it as soon and efficiently as you can. Ensure you never compromise your safety just because you want to beat some work deadlines or have extra time on your hands. Don’t compromise your safety for any reason and try and eliminate all risks as much as possible.

3. Get professional training

Ensure that you always undergo regular professional training. This is essentially necessary to all the new member of the team. Safety is paramount and for this reason, even the long-standing employees need to have refresher training courses which should contain both the practical and theoretical aspects of mining.

4. Always wear safety equipment

As a worker in the mines, ensure you never get to work without the appropriate safety gear on. From helmets to gloves to safety glasses. Put on the full safety gear at all times. Countless stories have always been documented of some workers being saved just by the helmets they put on during work.

5. Supervise your team

Ensure that all your team members follow the proper safety precautions without any exceptions. As a supervisor, you also need to ensure you enforce these safety precautions as safety is paramount in this job. Nobody can be allowed to stay behind in the mines after working hours. Also, ensure you always know the whereabouts of your team members. No team member is allowed to breach any of the safety protocols.

6. Document your safety procedures

Ensure each of your workers knows exactly what to do in case of an accident in the mines. Ensure that the safety procedures are clearly defined and displayed clearly and prominently in all locations where your team members can easily access them.

7. Follow the latest safety standards

You need to always ensure that all your mining equipment is serviced regularly and all the latest safety standards are enforced and implemented in the mining areas. Replace any broken or damaged equipment and don’t try to cut back on expenses at the cost of your miners.