Emergency Rescue Operations

Study Notes

Information gathered during size up is either factual (known or confirmed) or probable (assumptions made based on situation)
Hazard assessment involves identifying and evaluating hazards that may be encountered during the rescue operation
Hazards include:
- Fire
- Hazardous atmospheres (e.g., chemical hazards, toxic gases, oxygen displacement)
- Energy sources (e.g., electrical, gas, nuclear)
- Physical (e.g., structure, traffic, topography)
- Biological
- Environmental
Evaluate all influencing factors (e.g., time, location, environment, weather)

Formulate an objective based on known information and resources
Determine what resources are required to accomplish the task (e.g., offensive or defensive)
Risk-based decision-making based on the fundamental principles of mine rescue

Select one or more alternatives from the available options
Choose priorities based on the task and the resources available
Conduct all activities in a manner that ensures the safety of team members, casualties, and bystanders
Analyze results and be prepared to choose an alternative action if results are unsatisfactory

PPE is essential for mine rescue teams
PPE has limitations that must be recognized to avoid overextension of protection
Extensive training in the care, use, and maintenance of PPE is essential for optimum protection

Direct contact with power lines is not necessary to pose an arcing hazard
Responders should know that electrical systems are used by welders and take steps to eliminate and/or mitigate hazards
Crane operators should be aware of overhead power lines and take precautions to avoid contact
Haul trucks may experience tire explosions during or after contact with power lines

Mines operating in avalanche-prone areas must develop an avalanche emergency response plan
Avalanche safety officer must be identified, consulted, and lead the safe emergency response
An avalanche has three main parts: starting zone, track, and run-out zone
Avalanche can occur anywhere given the right conditions (e.g., geography, snow accumulation on a moderate to steep slope)

Load reduction of at least 15% on clear or natural ice (black or blue hue)
Slush ice (white hue) is weaker than clear blue lake-ice
Cracks in ice may affect its ability to support a load
Table shows maximum allowable mass of a vehicle in motion for ice of various thicknesses

TLV-STEL (Short Term Exposure Limit) is the concentration to which workers can be exposed for a short period without suffering from irritation, chronic or irreversible tissue damage, or narcosis
TLV-STEL is not a separate independent exposure limit, but supplements the time-weighted average (TWA) limit
TLV-C (Ceiling) is the concentration that should not be exceeded during any part of the working exposure