Winter poses unique challenges at all types of mine sites, including snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and strong winds. Miners and operators must take proactive measures to stay safe and reduce accidents and injuries.
Key Best Practices:
- Ventilation & Air Quality: Properly ventilate work areas and maintain equipment to prevent harmful gas accumulation, including carbon monoxide.
- Cold Stress Prevention: Know wind chill temperatures and prepare for frostbite, hypothermia, and cold stress by using appropriate protective gear and monitoring conditions.
- Surface Maintenance: Clear snow and ice from travelways, apply sand or salt to improve traction, and inspect highwalls and roadways after freezing conditions.
- Equipment Safety: Inspect and maintain equipment regularly, including vehicle exhaust systems, to ensure safe operation during cold weather.
Protect yourself and fellow miners by using printable best practices available under “Related Links” and sharing on email and social media. Together, we can reduce winter-related incidents and keep everyone safe through the cold months. Click here.
Safety is a shared responsibility—let’s ensure winter safety for all miners, keeping our mine sites incident-free and prepared for the unique challenges of the season.
-MSHA
