Flammable Gas Testing Procedures

Flammable Gas Testing

• Conduct flammable gas tests at the commencement of the shift
• Test at high points against the hanging using a zig-zag pattern and at 3 points on the ground
• Test at all electrical equipment, at the diamond hole, and at obvious fissures and dykes observed in the core

Frequency of Testing

• Conduct flammable gas tests every time a rod is added and whenever the rods are pulled out of the hole
• Record every gas test made, including time and location

Procedures in Case of Gas Detection

• If gas is detected at a level greater than 1% in the general atmosphere or 150mm in all directions from the hole or gas shut-off valve:
  • Stop work immediately and close the air and water supply
  • Do not extract the rods
  • Close the water valve at the face clamp
  • Close the methane valve/gas separator at the end of the rod string
  • Tighten the stuffing box

Additional Procedures

• If the rods are already out of the hole when gas is detected, shut the 2-inch valve
• Barricade off/close the barrier at the entrance and withdraw all workers to the fresh air-side of the ventilation
• Display methane notice boards on both sides of the site
• Place guards to warn people
• Notify the miner or team leader or any official nearby
• Notify all people working downstream of the ventilation area
• Stop locomotives in the immediate area
• Report to the control room, supervisor, or ventilation department immediately
• Complete the methane intersection report when on surface
• Only re-open the methane valve in accordance with the Mines SOP
• Work only to commence after written permission was obtained