After the initial reconnaissance has been done and subsequent re-opening of an old working place will be required, the following procedure should be followed:
1.Obtained plans to identify route, travel ways, tips, ore passes, 2″d outlets etc.
2.Obtain as much geological, survey and sampling information as possible to identify key targets –
Refer to SOP 122 – REMOVAL/ EXTRACTION OF DESIGNED PILLARS AND CLASSIFIED PILLARS.
3.During the re-start up risk assessment the Mine Overseer should include the respective technical departments if the conditions present are deemed to be escalated.
4.Prepare the notice to the Principal Inspector of Mines with all the relevant information.
5.Take all reasonable precautionary measures before attempting to do any work.
Team Making Entry
1.Technical team competent as per the MH&S Act Chapter 14 and Chapter 22
2.At least one Shift boss
3.At least two assistants
Risk Assessment
A risk assessment must be conducted to identify all hazards and risk in the abandoned working areas. Mine Overseers to be informed about reconnaissance to be done
The team must inspect:
- Current permanent support
- Open excavation cover platforms
- Hanging wall conditions
- Test ventilation
- Test temperature
- Determine the inclination of the workings for travel way requirements
- Determine the mining method to be used
- Sample areas to be mined
- Do risk assessment for each individual pillar to be extracted
- Procedure to be drafted for workings required
- Identify accumulation of water
- Box fronts, tipping points.
