PURPOSE:  The objectives of this program of research are to a) develop training packages and emergency response training protocols for mining companies; b) investigate miners´ behavior and reaction in mine emergency situations; c) assess new technologies and methods to integrate these new technologies into mine emergency warning and escape systems; and d) identify and address emerging issues in mine emergency response planning. These efforts will improve the state of readiness for emergency responders and increase the chances of survival for personnel escaping from underground emergencies.

RESEARCH SUMMARY:  For years, mine operators, federal and state mine safety agencies, and researchers have looked at various aspects of mine emergency response. The most intense efforts in this arena have occurred following major mine emergency incidents. Since the beginning of 2006, several major incidents have occurred at underground coal mines in the United States, resulting in 19 total worker fatalities. These include the January 2, 2006 explosion at the Sago Mine in Upshur County, WV; the January 19, 2006 fire at the Alma No.1 mine in West Virginia; and the May 20, 2006 explosion at the Darby No.1 Mine in Kentucky. These incidents raised a number of issues about mine emergency preparedness and response including:

• miners' expectations when wearing self-contained self-rescuers
• the judgment and decision-making process under the stress of a mine escape
• the on-site management of mine emergency response during the initial event
• emergency communications, including equipment function, and the transmission of appropriate important information
• the layout and marking of emergency escapeways in mines and
• an evaluation of mine emergency training programs and preplanning activities routinely conducted

The project builds upon previous research conducted in mine rescue and response. It offers outcomes that will aid in improving response to mine emergencies by mine rescue teams, mine management, and rank-and-file miners. A suite of mine rescue training exercises are being developed and will be available to aid mine rescue trainers in conducting exercises for their respective teams. Existing and new lighting technologies are being evaluated for use in marking primary and secondary escapeways. These appliances will enhance escape for miners and can be used in conjunction with life lines, reflective markers, and other delineating devices. Interventions will be developed and disseminated to the mining community aimed at providing information on miner behavior and decision-making in mine emergencies. A model identifying the components of a "best practices" emergency response plan will be developed and disseminated.