Poster Presentation
The Harmful Effects of Coal Mining
Kyle Dickson, Ryan Michel, Bryce Janssen
Faculty Mentor: Fetene Gebrewold
Health Sciences
The harmful effects of coal mining and the hazards that come with the job make it one of the most dangerous occupations to be involved in. There are three types of surface mines: open pit, area strip, and contour strip. In surface mining, the equipment and processes are identical to those found at a very large construction site. Some processes include: noise, vibration, and roadway dust. In underground mining, hazards can be classified as naturally occurring or generated by mining activity. The Federal
Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 states that the first priority and concern of all in the coal or other mining industry must be the health and safety of its most precious resource, the miner. Many rules and regulations are mandated by MSHA to help prevent hazards on the job. These hazards include: decibel level, air quality, and hazardous materials and waste management. Another important area in coal mining is the health impact on humans. Cooperation is growing between the industry, labor, and government to make mining safer and more healthful for workers. Although the average annual deaths for mining are at an all-time low, safety professionals believe it is still at an unacceptable rate. This presentation will inform the audience on the health related effects associated with the coal mining industry, the rules and regulations on how to help prevent injury or death, and what we can do to protect ourselves.