Fire-fighting resources and fire preparedness for underground coal mines. Information circular/1994
This U.S. Bureau of Mines report describes various fire fighting resources available to the mining industry and examines the fire preparedness of four western coal mines. The fire fighting resources covered include fire extinguishers, water hoses and nozzles, and fire fighting foam. Information regarding fire fighting equipment indicates that an inadequate maintenance program may cause component failure of fire extinguishers; damage to water hoses is usually a result of improper care; and foam may be a convenient means of conveying water to the fire. One area of particular interest was fire hose water nozzles. Several brands of fire hose nozzles randomly selected, both expensive and inexpensive, were tested at various water pressures. Little difference was found in the maximum throw distance in the fog stream mode. However, dramatic differences were seen among these nozzles when tested for throw distance in the straight stream mode. Performance data relative to water nozzles and specific practices to improve the state of preparedness in many of these areas are discussed. An examination of the mine emergency preparedness of four western coal mines showed state-of-the-art monitoring systems were common at the mine sites. All four mines used carbon monoxide (CO) sensors, and one mine incorporated smoke sensors. Fire safety at all the mine sites was stressed, including early detection and rapid response of the miners to evacuate the mine. However, the mines placed little emphasis on performance of water nozzles, or personal protective clothing for the underground firefighters.
- Research Organization:
- Bureau of Mines, Pittsburgh, PA (United States). Pittsburgh Research Center
- OSTI ID:
- 6750409
- Report Number(s):
- PB-95-128807/XAB; BUMINES-IC-9410
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: See also PB--92-10907. Library of Congress catalog card No. 94-6359
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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