RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE FIRST CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES

Held in Calcutta on 5th-6th August, 1958

A. General
1. All persons taking part in the direction or management of a mine should carry their respective
share of responsibility. The manager should be given a reasonably free hand in managing the
mine.
2. The manager should be assisted by well-trained staff and should be reasonably sure of having
his instructions carried out. He should get full co-operation from the workers in connection with all
matters relating to safety.
B. General Technical Measures
1. The Regulations should be more specific about the standards of ventilation.
2. To improve the standards of track-laying, all track in the mine should be placed under the
charge of a suitable qualified official. Similarly, the supply of tubs should be in charge of a
competent person.
3. The precautions relating to the use of electricity in mines should be incorporated in the Mines
Regulations. For this purpose 'the code of practice relating to the prevention of accients due to
electricity underground in coal mines' adopted by the Meeting of the I.L.O. Experts should be
taken into consideration.
BA. Danger of inundation
1. The standard of survey should be improved. A Senior Surveyor's Certificate should be
instituted. All correlation surveys, surveys of mines before abandonment and check-surveys of all
underground workings once in every 5 years, should be carried out by such surveyors.
2. Standards of accuracy of plans of different types may be prescribed.
3. A Water Danger Plan should be prepared in respect of all underground workings showing all
reservoirs of water lying within 60m of any workings.
4. Construction of water-dams should be carried out under the direction of a suitably qualified
senior member of supervisory staff.
BB. Enforcement of new regulations etc.
1. A realistic view should be, taken about the enforcement of new provisions of regulations.
Sufficient time must be given to the management -and to the workmen, where necessary -to come
up to new standards.
2. Where provision has been made regarding the laying down of standards etc., this may be done
in due course of time.
3. The new regulations are generally enough for the present and, except for recommendations
made here, should be generally left unaltered. The existing machinery of Mining Boards is
adequate for dealing with any suggestions for further changes therein.
CA. The problem of Inflammable Gas (in deep coal mines)
1. There is need for greater awareness of the dangers of inflammable gas in general.
2. Greater attention should be paid to 'advance planning of ventilation from the very inception of a
project. The methods of work in such mines need special scrutiny from this point of view. Where
possible, introduction of longwall method should be considered.
3. Research is necessary into the methods of properly ventilating the headings in bord and pillar
workings.
4. Only specially trained persons should be employed on the work of routine analysis of mine air.
All gassy mines should have reliable gas-detectors and methanometers. No system of gas-
detecting instruments can, however, remove the necessity of testing for gas by flame safety
lamps.
5. Only lamps designed for gas-testing should be used for the purpose. Only persons holding a
gas-testing certificate should be issued such lamps. In every gassy mine, not less than one-tenth
of the total workmen should be so trained.
6. Lamps issued to overmen and superior officials should be relighter type.

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7. There is need for better standard of lighting in mines. The use of flame safety lamps and of
'mug' lamps for lighting purposes should be gradually stopped.
8. The standard of safety lamp-cabins generally leaves much to be desired. More attention should
be paid to the maintenance and cleaning of flame safety lamps.
9. Research is necessary on the subject of fire-damp drainage, and the cause of outbursts of gas
etc.
CB. The problem of coal dust (in coal mines)
1. The vastness of the problem of coal dust does not appear to be generally realised. The
organisation for clearing of coal dust and of treating with incombustible dust at most mines leaves
much to be desired.
2. Where the rate of deposition of coal dust is high, greater resort should be had to the
consolidation of road-dust and to watering.
3. Considerable research work on the various- methods of suppression of dust, of roadway
treatment and on the efficacy of different methods of watering is necessary. As also on the
explosibility of dusts of various coal seams in India, and on the effectiveness of stone-dust
barriers.
CC. The problem of heat and humidity
Where the heat and humidity is above a specified level, the length of duration of shift should be
reduced.
CD. Problems of Roof Control
1. The problem of controlling strata stresses at greater depths requires detailed investigation.
2. In deeper coal mines and for working thick seams sandstowing during depillaring operations
should be compulsory.
CE. Problems of Mechanisation
1. A properly equipped and staffed Mechanisation Training Centre should be opened without delay
for training machine operators and maintenance-men.
2. Institution of new statutory certificates of competency for mine engineers, mechanics and
electricians etc. should be considered.
3. The standard of supervision on the afternoon and night shifts should be improved. In gassy and
mechanized mines, in particular. the percentage of officials should be raised.
4. In mechanised mines, more attention should be paid to the support of roof.
CF. Greater use of explosives
1. Constant effort should be made to raise the standard of handling and use of explosives.
2 Persons to be appointed as shotfirers should be properly selected and intensively trained, so
that safety habits are ingrained in their very nature.
3. The fixation of the maximum number of shots to be fired by a shotfirer needs very careful
consideration.
4. In every mine using more than a prescribed amount of explosives. The whole shotfiring staff
should be under the charge of a superior official on each shotfiring shift.
D. Organisation of large and / or gassy mines
1. All large mines should employ separate senior supervisory staff (on full time basis) to look after
each of the more important safety aspects. Such as ventilation, sandstowing, shotfiring, machinery
maintenance etc.
2. Only experienced persons should be appointed as managers of large and or gassy mines.
3. In all mines above a prescribed size, a suitably qualified persons should be employed as Safety
Officer.
DA. Need for Research Work
1. There is a special need for research work into the methods of working of thick seams.
2. For success in its work, the Mining Research Station should work in close collaboration with the
Mines Department and the Industry.

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E. Management Practices
1. The definition of 'agent' in the Mines Act should be amended to include every person other than
an owner or agent who takes part or has an effective say in the technical management of the mine
including-
(i) Senior 'officers like Chief Mining Engineers, etc;
(ii) Specialist staff like Planning Engineers, Chief Surveyors, Chief Engineers etc.;
(iii) Persons of the type of Local Supervisors, 'Master babus' etc.
2. Where the owner himself directly supervises and directs work at the mine,he must carry direct
responsibility for safe operation in every case.
3. Mines Act should clearly provide that all instructions regarding technical matters (even by an
Owner or Agent) should be routed through the manager.
4. To enable the manager to devote more attention to safety matters, the non-technical obligations
relating to building of canteens, crèches, pit-head baths etc., and of payment of bonus, provident
fund etc. should be removed from the person of the manager and shared between the
owner/agent, welfare personnel officer etc.
5. The status of surveyors and other supervisory officials should be improved commensurate with
their responsibilities and duties.
6. The status of winding engine-men should also be improved to attract persons of higher standard
to this cadre.
7. A statutory provision similar to Coal Mines Regulation 113(2) should be made relating to the
determination of the size of overmens' district.
8. No safety official shall be dismissed unless his case has been discussed in the Pit Safety
Committee.
F. The Role of Workmen
1. Workmen and their representatives should cooperate with the management in ensuring
effective compliance with safety measures and precautions.
2. Workmen should have the right to get the mines inspected by their chosen representatives.
Such representatives should be specifically excluded from dealing with matters relating to wages,
wage-rates, labour disputes, etc.
3. A copy of every violation letter received from the Mines Department should be posted on a
special notice board.
4. At every large mine, a Safety Committee should be set up to discuss matters relating to safety.
The Committee should be precluded from dealing with matters relating to wages, wage-rates,
labour disputes, etc. The Committee may discuss the reports of inspection of workmen's
representatives and also the violation letters received by the management from the Mines
Department. It should also bring to the notice of the Mines Department any safety provision of
direction that is not being observed or any other danger that comes to its notice.
5. Cases of disciplinary action arising out of non-observance of safety requirements may be
referred to the Committee.
6. Discipline amongst workers is essential for conducting different operations in a mine in a safe
manner. The problem of lack of discipline in mining areas requires a through enquiry by a
properly-constituted body.
7. Where pursuation fails, deterrent action should be taken against violators of safety laws. Where
a workman is punished for a breach of safety provisions of the law, he should not be shown any
sympathy by the workmen's unions.
GA. Methods of Recruitment
1. An established and permanent labour force is an asset to the Industry from all points of view,
including safety.
2. The present recruitment position is chaotic. The recommendations made elsewhere about the
training of all new recruits to mining also imply the creation of a suitable Central Recruitment
Agency.
3. Recruitment through labour contractors and other private agencies should be abolished.

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GB. Hours of work
An investigation into the fatigue factor (by systematic time-studies of different categories of
workers in different type of mines) is necessary.
GC. Fitness of Workers
1. All entrants to mining should be subjected to a physical test. All mine workers should also be
medically examined at periodic intervals.
2. Provision of housing for mine-workers should be given top priority.
3. A system whereby men work in a regular team may be better than one in which new work-
groups are formed frequently.

HA. Enforcement Agency

1. Inspections should not be carried out to the point at which inspector's responsibility begins to be
substituted for the statutory responsibility of the owner. For the time being, the frequency of
inspections may be based on the following general principles-
(a) Two general inspections every year of all mines.
(b) In all large mines, special inspections to be made with reference to a particular object in view,
e.g. general supervision, ventilation, coal dust, support in depillaring areas, etc.
(c) Mines where conditions appear to b& generally unsatisfactory or the standard of management
inferior, should be placed under frequent inspection until the mine has been brought up to a
certain standard.
(d) A number of surprise inspections should be made on the afternoon and night shifts.
2. As it is asking too much of any Inspector to bear in mind every detail of statutory requirements,
or to have the power of observation to recognize in one comprehensive survey whether or not
each one is order, there is an increasing need for the inspector's visits to be directed mainly to
certain pre-selected objectives, subject to the general scheme of inspections.
3. On surprise inspections, the majority should be made on afternoon and night shifts.
4. The enforcement of the Mines Rules should be taken away from the Mines Department to
enable it to devote its full attention to safety and allied matters.
5. Mines Department should have sufficient Inspectors of Mines for Special Duties, Electrical
Inspectors, Mechanical Inspectors, Medical Inspectors etc.
6. The general strength of the Mines Department should be increased to enable it to discharge
properly the heavy burden placed on it as a result of the new legislations and sure to be
considerably added to by these recommendations. It is obvious that unless the staff of the Mines
Department is adequate, it cannot properly discharge the functions entrusted to it.
7. The position regarding recruitment to the Mines Department is very poor, As Inspectors are to
be drawn from the ranks of managers, there is need for some comparison between the salaries
paid in the Department and those paid in the Industry. The principle followed in the U.K. where the
salary-grade of an Inspector starts where that of the manager in the nationalized industry ends,
may be followed here with advantage.
8. There should not be more than three Inspectors under on Regional Inspector. The number of
senior officers should also be sufficient to properly guide, and keep check on the work of regional
offices.
9. Adequate library facilities should be available to officers of the Mines Department including
those posted at the regional and other outlying offices. Facilities should also be provided for
Inspectors to obtain training in foreign countries.
HB. Problem of Enforcement
1. For proper enforcement, it is necessary for every regional office the Mines Department to have
regular legal assistance at its disposal.
2. The possibility of appointing Special Mining Courts should be explored to ensure that due
importance is given to infringements of safety laws and that, for proved contraventions the penalty
awarded is sufficient to act as a deterrent.
3. The possibility of vesting the Inspectorate with powers of imposing fines in certain cases of
contraventions should be explored.

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4. The Mines Act should be amended to provide that evidence recorded by Inspectors would be
accepted by the Courts of Law.
5. Section 22 of the Mines Act should be amended to include cases where, despite warnings, the
managements do not show any improvement in regard to safety matters.
6. Every mining lease should carry a clause to the effect that the lease may be cancelled if due to
the bad history of management, the Chief Inspector so recommends.
7. Contravention of an order under Section 22(3) of the Act should be punishable with
imprisonment only.
8. Limitations of the enforcement agency should be realised. It should be appreciated that "inspite
of all the authorities’ vigilance and severity, it is practically impossible to compel respect for safety
obligation in all cases. Again, statutory regulations and inspections cannot prevent many of the
accidents due to causes such as carelessness, faulty methods.., howsoever much the authorities
may intervene."
9. The Mines Department can function as an enforcement agency only for so long as it is
independent of any authority responsible for the production of minerals.
10. Holding of enquiries by police authorities into mine accident should be prevented to obviate
undue harassment to mine managements and workers.
I. Avoidance of Dual Control on Safety in Coal Mines
1. Such work of the Coal Board as related to safety (including stowing) should be placed under the
direction and control of the Chief Inspector; and the funds of the Coal Board should be placed at
the disposal of the Mines Department.
2. Expenditure incurred on stone-dusting (or other dust-treatment) should a legitimate charge on
the funds of the Coal Board.
3. The rate of assistance granted in cases of conservation should not exceed that in cases of
voluntary stowing for safety.
4. In cases of compulsory stowing for safety, assistance should be granted at the full (100%) rate.
J. Education and Training
1. Unless competent and dependable workmen, operators and officials are available in mines, no
programme of promotion of safety can make any real headway.
2. Immediate steps should be taken to train all new entrants to mining. The scheme may start with
gassy mines and should gradually be extended to cover all mine workers. The Mines Welfare
Commission appears to be the best agency to undertake such a scheme.
3. Further Accident Prevention courses for all workers should be arranged at periodic intervals.
4. The provision of training facilities for mining supervisory staff should be expedited. Special
attention should be paid to the training of mine surveyors.
5. one-year specialisation courses for qualified engineers for employment in mines should be
instituted.
6. A suitable scheme of directed practical training for mining engineers should be evolved.
7. Arrangements should be made for holding of refresher courses for older officials and
technicians etc. Training in the principles of TWI should be included in every curriculum of training
of officials and technicians etc.
KA. Safety Education
1. "Everyone who works in the mine, from the manager to the youngest worker must be instilled
with the right attitude, which consists in a sincere belief in the possibility of accident prevention, in
bearing safety in mind, and a resolve to put into practice everything which can contribute to
preventing accidents."
2. For senior managerial staff, a Safety Bulletin (quarterly) should be put out by the Department of
Mines; and, occasional Safety Conference should be held.
3. For other officials, 'Accident Prevention Courses' should be established, making full use of
audio-visual methods and safety 'tracts' with suitable illustrations should be prepared and
distributed.
4. It is also necessary to hold periodic refresher courses.
5. 'First Aid Training' amongst mine workers should be intensified.

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KB. Safety Competitions and Incentive for Safety
1. Safety weeks should be held occasionally in the whole industry. Safety Campaigns, aimed at
reducing accidents of a particular type or during a particular period, may also be useful.
2. Suitable safety awards (for good safety records) may be instituted by a Governmental agency,
amongst-
(i) large companies;
(ii) individual mines;
(iii) individual miners.
3. Large mines or group of mines should institute awarding systems of safety prizes to district
officials, individuals etc. for low-accident performance.
4. Institution of a suitable scheme of Incentive Safety Bonus deserves serious consideration.
5. Officials' Safety meetings at the mine-level are also a useful medium for promoting safety.

LA. Rescue in cases of inundation

1. Every mine should send to the Regional Inspector once a year, a list of all pumping equipment
(including pipe-ranges etc.) which can be readily spared and dismantled. The list should contain
certain detailed specifications of the equipment. From these lists, classified lists giving location of
each type of equipment should be prepared.
2. Similar classified lists may be prepared of heavy load carriers in the locality.
3. In case of an emergency existing at any mine requiring the help of outside workers, it should be
the statutory responsibility of the mine-management concerned to immediately provide free and
adequate canteen and resting facilities for all such workers. It should also be required to pay
reasonable charges for the loan of equipment and for the employment of workers belonging to
other concerns.
LB. Rescue from behind Irrespirable Atmosphere
1. A statutory provision should be made requiring payment of prescribed allowances to all rescue
workers and, in case of emergency at a mine requiring their services, also for requiring the
managements concerned to provide free and adequate canteen and resting facilities.
2. It should be the statutory obligation of every rescue trained worker to turn out when a call is sent
out.
M. Health Hazards in Mining
A medical inspectorate should be set up early, within the Mines Department, to undertake regular
industrial hygiene surveys in mining areas.
NA. Compensation for Accidents
1. There is a case for increasing the rates of compensation.
2. There are also strong grounds for the payment of some supplementary compensation to mine
workers. Any such scheme should also provide for the recuperation of persons who have escaped
from disasters etc., and for the education of children of accident victims. The scheme can best be
operated through a Mines Welfare Commission.
NB. Compensation of Industrial Diseases
The arrangements being made to rehabilitate the permanently injured coal-miners should be
extended to cover all mines.
O. Collection of statistics
1. The definition of 'serious injury' may be amended to conform with the recommendations of the
I.L.O., if any.
2. The manshift basis is the most representative basis for calculating accident- rates. Rates based
on production basis may however be used for comparisons over short periods.
3. For the proper scrutiny and examination of statistics, the statistical section of the Mines
Department should be strengthened. Statistical assistance should also be provided to the regional
offices.
P. The Price of Coal
In the policy of coal price fixation and coal control, due weightage should be given to the cost of
observing additional safety measures in the deep and/or gassy mines.

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QA. Protective Equipment
Further statistical studies are required to indicate the necessity for the use of protective equipment
other than hats and shoes.
QB. Safety material and Equipment
1. Steps should be taken for the manufacture, within the country of essential safety material like
fire-proof brattice cloth and incombustible dust etc.
2. A standing committee should be set up to assess the industry's requirements for safety
equipment, and to promote the manufacture of such equipment in India. Till, however, the
indigenous production can meet the total requirement, imports should be permitted to meet the
balance of requirements in full.

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 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE SECOND CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in Calcutta on 9th-10th July, 1966

1. There is a need to ensure close cooperation and coordination between the Central Government
and the State Governments in respect of all matters connected with the exploitation and
conservation of minerals and safety of residents in mining areas. A suitable coordinating
committee should be set up to ensure this.
2. The Conference was informed that on the recommendations of the Dhori Court of Inquiry and
suggestions made by the Safety Experts from the U.K. and the ILO, the Chief Inspector of Mines
had either already taken or proposed to take action in regard to the following-
(a) Provision of safety lamps
(b) Conducting of surveys by managements to check the presence of gas
(c) Ventilation standards
(d) Installation of mechanical ventilators
(e) Clearance of coal dust.
3. All possible steps should be taken to ensure that the attendance registers are properly
maintained.
4. The Standing Safety Committee should review the position concerning implementation of safety
standards from time to time and make suitable recommendations for improvement.
5. Research should playa more positive role in safety matters.
6. Adequate foreign exchange should be made available for importing such essential safety
equipment as are not manufactured indigenously.
7. A small committee should be set up to explore the possibility of manufacturing further items of
safety equipment within the country.
8. Workers do not report cases of pneumoconiosis to the medical authorities for fear of being
declared unfit and losing their jobs. A suitable rehabilitation scheme needs to be formulated and
implemented for this category of workers. Doctors should be adequately trained for proper
diagnosis of this disease.
9. On the question of rehabilitation and re-employment of other disabled mine workers, it was
agreed that a training institute for these persons should be set up to develop in them skills for
suitable re-employment.
10. Better coordination between the industry and the Employment Exchanges should be ensured
so that workers retrenched on account of redundancy in any mine are given preference for
absorption in new mines.
11. The Mines Act and the Regulations should be translated into simple Hindi and other regional
languages so that workers can understand them easily.
12. The problems arising out of police inquiries into mining accidents should be pursued with the
State Governments.
13. More rescue stations, equipped adequately, should be opened at suitable places to cover the
mining areas.
14. All mines should have a 'Suggestions Scheme' whereby mine workers who make suggestions
for improving efficiency and safety in the mine can be suitably rewarded.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE THIRD CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in Calcutta on 14th-15th July, 1973

1. Suitable provisions should be made in Coal Mines (Safety &"Conservation) Act for safety and
rehabilitation of persons residing on surface of u.g. workings which are unsafe, or likely to become
unsafe.
2. There should be a suitable legislation prohibiting/regulating new constructions in mining areas
without permission from competent authority.
3. The activities of the National Council for Safety in Mines should be expanded by providing
additional funds for its proper functioning.
4. Any person who is rendered medically unfit as a result of an occupational disease or mining
accident should be treated at the cost of the management with full pay and if found unsuitable for
the present job, the management should provide him with a suitable alternative job.
If permanent disability exceeds 50%, management may be given option of either retaining him in
employment without loss in wages or retrenching him from service paying him retrenchment plus
disablement compensation.
5. In the changed character of the mining industry with the recent nationalisation of all coal mines,
the role and functions of the DGMS need to be redefined, its responsibilities more precisely stated
and its cadre strengthened with persons of the required calibre and experience.
6. Violations detected in inspections by DGMS officers be pointed out on the spot and entered in a
register kept at the mine. A copy to be displayed on notice board.
7. A separate set of regulations for opencast mines may be drafted.
8. Vocational training to workers should be imparted during the working hours.
9. Raising contract system in relation to mines should be abolished.
10. Occupational Health Service at Company level should be established as early as possible.
11. Workmen's Compensation Act should be amended to (a) further increase the rates of
compensation, (b) bring all industrial employees, irrespective of their income, within the scope of
the Act.
12. Identity cards should be issued to all mine workers.
13. The recommendations of the Jeetpur Court of Inquiry should be examined and implemented at
an early date.
RECMMENDATIONS OF THE FOURTH CONFRRRNCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in Calcutta on 24th Decembe1; 1978

This conference was held in the normal course and not immediately after a big disaster as was the
case with the previous three conferences which were held respectively after the Chinakuri, Dhori
and Jeetpur explosions. This was appreciated by the members but they felt that the agenda was
too heavy for one day programme, and some of the important members left the conference in
protest. The other members then discussed in a general way the following suggestions of the
Polish and I.L.C. experts:
(i) The statute should be made rigorous with a view to achieving higher standards of safety.
(ii) Mine management should develop their own Internal Safety organisation which should be
placed directly under the charge of the Managing Director.
(iii) New strategies should be planned to achieve the goal of reaching Zero Accident Potential
(ZAP).
(iv) A Training College should be developed to train up surveyors, engineers, ventilation officers,
safety officers etc.
 RECOMMENDAITONS OF FIFTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held ill New Delhi on 26-27 December, 1980

1. Defining the Safety Policy of Mining Companies

Every company whether in the public or private sector should have well defined policy in the field
of safety and health of its employees. The policy could be laid down in the form of a resolution at
the company's Board meeting. In defining such a policy, the Company should spell out, among
other things, the following:
(i) Objectives;
(ii) Funds and facilities to achieve the objectives;
(iii) The set-up for execution of the policy at different levels, the duties and responsibilities at each
level and for close monitoring of execution;
(iv) Arrangement for publicizing the above among the different segments of mining personnel,
workers, their representatives and the concerned Government departments;
(v) Any other matter that may arise during the execution of the policy.
2. (a) The Board of Directors of the Public Sector units should review the progress of execution of
the Policy at intervals not exceeding 6 months. During the review, various other recommendations
of this Conference should also be reviewed.
(b) The Board should make specific mention regarding the progress of safety in its units and
specific steps taken by the units in the year, in its annual report.
(c) The Ministry of Labour should communicate guidelines in respect of action to be taken at (a)
and (b) above, to the administrative ministries, who in turn will instruct the public sector units under
their control.
(d) The Private Sector units also should be persuaded to adopt a similar course of action.
3. Tripartite meeting consisting of the management, the workers' representatives and the DGMS
should be arranged at intervals not exceeding 6 months during which the safety performance and
progress of implementation of Company's policy on Safety and Health and of the
recommendations of this Conference and of different courts of inquiry should be discussed. These
meetings could be presided over by representatives of management, labour and DGMS by
rotation.
4. An in-depth, minewise and causewise analysis of all fatal and serious accidents that have
occurred at every mine of each mining company during the last three years shall be made by the
ISO (Internal Safety Organisation) of the Company. (A copy of the analysis made should be
submitted).
5. On the basis of the said analysis, the Board of Directors should every year, draw up a
programme of Safety Campaigns at selected mines to eliminate avoidable accidents.
6. Effective publicity would be given to the proposed 'Safety Campaigns' and the details thereof
would be finalised in consultation with workers and their representatives. The duties and
responsibilities of workmen, supervisors and management officials would be spelt out and every
member made aware of the role to be played by him, either alone or in groups.
7. To make the Safety Campaign successful goodwill and co-operation in full measure will be
extended by workers and their representatives.
8. The impact of such Safety Campaigns should be continuously monitored by the ISO and
reported to the Board of Directors at intervals not exceeding three months. This would enable the
Board to issue fresh guidelines in the matter.
9. Every year the company would bring out a report detailing the Safety Campaigns launched and
the results achieved. These reports would be presented before the Tripartite Committee. The first
report should become available by 31.12.1981.
2. Quality Control Cell
To prevent accidents due to failure of equipment each mining company should have a well
equipped quality control cell which should not only ensure the purchase/procurement of good
quality equipment/apparatus but should also monitor the performance of the same in actual use.
These cells should also lay down schedules for the proper maintenance and operation of such

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equipment/apparatus. Periodical testing of the equipment/apparatus should also be the
responsibility of these cells, which should maintain effective liaison with the DGMS, CMRS and
other Institutions. Such Internal Quality Control Cells should be set up before the end of 1981.
3. Adoption of Improved Technology
1. All Degree III gassy mines should have a comprehensive network of environmental monitoring
system within next two years.
2. (a) Tele-communication system should be introduced in a. phased manner in below ground
mines in the next five years, giving priority according to distance, mechanisation, degree of
gassiness and problems of fire. Telecommunication should also be provided in all mechanised
opencast mines in the next two years.
(b) Surface communication systems should be improved expeditiously.
3. R&D Board of Coal India should be re-activised. R&D capabilities should be provided in each
mining company in collaboration with CMRS.
4. for proper development and growth of new technology, specialist cells should be set up in each
Mining Company and in DGMS for Ventilation, Environment, mechanisation, Dust Control, and
Strata Control.
4. Training & Re-training of workmen
1.V.T. Programme to be recast and made more comprehensive so that the future mining
community is self-reliant and professionally competent to do face operations including those
required for safety. Specialised training courses should also be arranged for the development of
skilled operators required for heavy earth moving equipment, longwall face equipment etc.
2. Adequate infrastructure should be provided at the Company and Area levels and efforts should
be made to attract talented persons having aptitude to run training programmes.
3. Training in Vocational Training Centres should be oriented towards how to do the job rather
than being shown how the job should not be done.
4. There should be sectoral budget for training.
5. Central Training College/institute should be established for training Instructors and development
of special cadres of mine surveyors and mine overmen/foremen.
6. Each mining company should formulate a comprehensive five year scheme for training of all
supervisory staff and' workers within six months. The Training scheme should be implemented
thereafter with the help of Central and the Government and other agencies.
7. Based on the requirement of trained manpower for future development of mining industry,
training programmes should be launched. A Tripartite Committee should be set up to advise on
the modalities and infrastructure for such training.
5. Internal Safety Organisation
1. The Internal Safety Organisation (ISO) should be independent of the production line at all
levels.
2. The Chief of ISO should be a senior officer next in rank only to the Director (Tech.) if any or MD/
the Chief Executive.
3. The ISO should be a multi-disciplinary team and the field setup should start above the; level of
mine. The Safety Officer at the mine level being a specialist staff officer to the Mine Manager
should not be deemed to be part of the ISO.
4 In order that the Internal Safety Organisation is able to play an effective role, detailed guidelines
for their functioning may be laid down covering, inter-alia, the following:
(i) Formulation of safety policy at the corporate level;
(ii) Effective monitoring of the state of implementation of the policy directives on safety;
(iii) Periodic inspection of mines for assessing status of safety;
(iv) Enquiry into all accidents and dangerous occurrences;
(v) Actively associated in opening new districts and in obtaining permissions, relaxations and
exemptions under the statute;
(vi) The findings of ISO should be placed before the Pit Safety Committee for discussion and
dissemination.

2
6. Workers' participation in Safety Management
1. Mines Act should be ammended to give statutory backing to the institution of Pit Safety
Committee and Workmen's Inspectors, keeping in view the recommendations made by the
Committee on Workmen Inspectors.
2. The institution of Pit Safety Committees being a fine example of a co-operative effort on the part
of all concerned on mines safety at the unit level, there should be recognition of the same.
Participation by officials of higher management in the deliberations of the committee would ensure
positive encouragement. The performance should be periodically reviewed at a level higher than
the local management level.
3. For effective liaison, the Workmen's Inspector should be an ex-officio member of the Pit Safety
Committee.
7. Prevention of roof/side fall accidents
1. While adopting the policy that with effect from 1.7.82 no worker shall be permitted to work under
unsupported roof that has been freshly exposed, each Company should plan and phase out the
above programme in three phases of six months each. For this purpose, suitable support systems
shall be selected and provided.
2. Strata Control Unit should be set up in Mining Companies and the DGMS within one year.
3. In order to expose as few workers as possible under freshly exposed roof, multiple-skills would
be developed in consultation with Trade Unions.
8. Health & Prevention of Fatigue
1. (a) Immediate steps shall be taken by the mining companies to establish the required
infrastructure for implementing the provisions relating to initial and periodical medical examination
of mine workers.
2. There should be suitable machinery both in the industry and in the DGMS to carry out regular
surveys on dust evaluation and evaluating dust control techniques.
3. In mines, supply of drinking water and adequate ventilation at working places should be
ensured.
4. In mines where long or arduous travel is involved, arrangement for transport of men should be
made.
5. Recognizing the adverse effect on health of employees while working over-time employment of
persons beyond their hours of normal duties should be minimized.
6. There is scope for improvement in the design and quality of footwear in use in mines. The Boot
Committee may be revived for the purpose.
7. Each Mining Company should launch suitable programme for improvement of working
environment and living conditions and maintenance of ecological balance affected by air and water
pollution, noise and despoliation.
9. Accuracy of Mine Plans
1. Mining Companies should make a realistic appraisal of the survey and supporting personnel
required to fulfill statutory and other obligations within a period of 3 months and take immediate
action to make good the shortfall during the course of next 3 years. For this purpose the Mining
Companies should recruit survey apprentices and take immediate steps for training of mine
surveyors either by opening specialised courses in the existing institutions or entering into
collaboration with Polytechnics or Training Institutions under
Survey of India etc. for meeting the present and future demand. Mining Companies should also
take steps to attract and retain qualified and competent surveyors by formulating a suitable Survey
Cadre Scheme.
2. Basic requirements to carry out efficient survey work and preparation of plans in terms of
equipment, material and accommodation be ensured within a period of one year.
3. Existing survey personnel, both in the industry and DGMS, should be given refresher training
and exposed to modern survey instruments and techniques.
4. (a) The work of correlation of mine plans and linking them with the National Grid to the required
standards of accuracy should be expedited and completed within a period of one year.

3
(b) For inaccessible old water-logged and other workings, suitable techniques should be evolved
to delineate them with modern methods of proving, within a period of 3 years.
10. Reorganisation of Mines Rescue Services
1. It was decided that this item would be considered further by the Ministry of Labour and that Shri
Kanti Mehta, Shri Kalyan Roy, Shri P. Chanda and Shri G.S. Marwaha would send their views on
the subject to the Ministry of Labour.

11. Role and Functions of DGMS

1. While carrying out its traditional role and functions including setting standards on safety, the
DGMS should reassign priorities in organized sector giving greater emphasis on system
examination and prevention of major accidents. Granting permissions should likewise be broad
based rather than piecemeal.
2. The inspection policy should be based on:
(a) Enquiry into all fatal and immediate serious accidents and important dangerous occurrences.
(b) Two general inspections of all mines every year.
(c) Follow up inspections, where necessary.
(d) Inspections required to deal with applications for permissions, relaxations, exemptions and
complaints.
(e) Inspections required for promotional and developmental work.
(f) Undertake special investigations, such as strata control, ventilation, slope stability, mining
electronics etc.
For complying with the above norms it would be essential to provide necessary inputs.
3. A high-power Committee comprising of representatives of Ministries of Finance and Labour,
Department of Personnel and the DGMS may be constituted to examine and recommend the size
and structure of DGMS organisation taking into account the present and anticipated size of and
technological developments in the mineral industry in the country, the associated safety problems
and the norms of inspection/enquiries and other statutory and
Non-statutory work expected of the Organisation. The Committee might also suggest steps to be
taken to attract qualified and competent officers to DGMS. The Trade Unions will place their views
before the high-power committee.
Since compliance with recommendation (3) above will take some time, as an immediate measure
the service and work conditions (Pay scales, allowances, transport facilities etc.) of the employees
of DGMS should be improved.
Technical expertise in the DGMS shall be kept up-to-date by exposing the officers to advanced
technology in other countries and allowing them to participate in National and International
Seminars.

4
 RECOMMENDATIONS OF SIXTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in New Delhi on 13th & 14th January, 1986

1.0 The recommendations made by the earlier conference on Safety in Mines should be fully
implemented within a period of one year.
2.1: Accidents due to falls of roof and sides
2.1.1 (i) Manager of every underground mine should formulate 'Support Plan' for support of roof,
sides, back and hangwall in consultation with strata control cell where set up, CMPDIL/ any
technical or research institution, ISO and Safety Committee. The 'Support Plan' should be in
respect of the following:
(a) Workings within 9 metres of working faces,
(b) Along tramming levels and specially at loading points,
(c) Along haulage roadways and specially at junctions,
(d) At any other place(s) in the mine identified for support under Reg. 108 of CMR 1957, and Reg.
112 of MMR 1961.
Local geological conditions, physico-mechanical properties of strata, method of work including
mechanisation and past experience etc. may be taken into account while formulating such plan.
For non-coal mines, nature of strata which in many cases is massive, may be taken into
consideration.
The plan should include:
(a) Type of supports e.g. safari supports, roof bolts, friction props, props or hydraulic props etc,
(b) Duties and responsibilities of Timbermen, Dressers, Sirdars/Mates, Overmen/Foremen,
Assistant Managers/Managers and Agents towards supply of material, erection and withdrawal of
supports, inspection thereof and ensuring effectiveness of supports.
The 'Support Plan' should be submitted to DGMS for approval. In case there is delay in
formulation of such plan due to involvement of various agencies, interim plan should be prepared
and submitted immediately. Pending approval, the plan should be implemented.
2.1.1 (ii) No person should be employed at any place which is not supported in accordance with
the approved 'Support Plan'.
2.1.2 ISO should investigate each and every major incident of roof and side fall even if it does not
involve any casualty. Preventive steps against such falls in future may be taken on the basis of
those investigations.
2.1.3 Sufficient number of timbermen and dressers should be appointed taking into consideration
absenteeism and leave within a period of 6 months.
2.1.4 Intensive practical training and re-training should be given to the persons engaged in support
work such as timbermen and dressers etc. by experienced and qualified persons. This should be
supplemented by organising workshops at mine level at quarterly intervals preferably by NCSM.
2.1.5 No blasting in coal off-the-solid should be done except with proper type of delay action
detonators and proper explosives.
2.2 Accidents due to dumpers and trucks in opencast mine
2.2.1 Adequate care should be exercised in selection and training of operators/drivers of dumpers
and trucks and any other heavy earth-moving machinery.
2.2.2 Adequate number of dumper operators and drivers of trucks and HEMM and also pitmen &
dumpmen should be appointed keeping in view factors like, absenteeism and leave etc. Work on
overtime should be abolished.
2.2.3 Effective steps should be taken to prevent riding of dumpers and trucks by unauthorized
persons. Further, adequate arrangements should be made for transport of machinery maintenance
staff.
2.2.4 Dumpers, trucks and heavy earth moving machinery within mine premises should be
equipped with audio-visual alarm within a period at 2 years to facilitate safe reversal.
2.2.5 Transport and loading operations, including those by contractors, should be supervised by
competent persons. Where contractors are appointed for transport of mineral, examination of
vehicles should be done by the mine management.

1
2.3 Accident due to fire in Oil Mines
2.3.1 Mine managements should examine and review all installations vis-à-vis the safe distance to
be maintained and work out a time-bound action plan within one year for rectification along with
safety precautions to be taken in the interim period to minimize danger.
2.3.2 All fixed I.C. engines should be fitted with flame arrestors and air intake shut-off valve with
remote control within one year.
2.3.3 Contingency plan for fire should be framed on priority basis. While doing so, due note of the
possible size and duration of fire that may develop should be considered.
2.3.4. A study should be undertaken to determine the causes of fires that occurred in the last five
years and the remedial measures to be taken within a period of one year.
2.4: The Mine Environment with special reference to air borne dust and health of mine
workers.
Mine Environment-Ventilation
2.4.1 Every effort should be made by mine managements to achieve the stipulated national
standards with respect to mine environment in each mine. For this purpose a ventilation
scheme/plan should be submitted to DGMS. No worker should be deployed at any place where
environmental standards are not met with.
2.4.2 Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters should be provided at
mines. Facilities of continuous type monitoring should be installed within 3 years in all degree III
gassy coal mines and in other mines having active underground fire or mines having serious
problems of heat as identified by mutual discussions between management and the Directorate
General of Mines Safety.
2.4.3 Before adopting any new technology, the adverse effects if any, of the same on the
environmental parameters in mines and on the health of workers employed therein should be
studied by multi-disciplinary team to assess its adoptability to local conditions.
Air borne Dust
2.4.4 An Expert Group consisting of a member each from mines management, research
establishment/BGML/CMPDIL and workers' representative having technical knowledge should be
constituted by DGMS for laying down guidelines for conducting air borne dust surveys for different
types of dust, specifying class of working and periodicity of conducting such surveys for the sake
of uniformity and comparison.
2.4.5 Air borne dust surveys should be carried out on a regular basis so as to conduct/ complete
the survey in each mine as recommended by the Expert Group. The management should take
suitable and necessary steps to control air borne dust. In addition to quantitative surveys, special
attention should be paid to assess the chemical composition of air borne dust to ascertain its effect
on the type of diseases caused by the dust.
Periodical Medical Examination of workers
2.4.6 Initial medical examination of all workers employed in underground mines should be
completed in next three years. Thereafter, periodical medical examination of such workers should
be done atleast once in 5 years.
2.4.7 Initial medical examination of all workers employed on surface and engaged in drilling,
loading and at crushing and screening plants should be completed in next three years. Thereafter,
the periodical medical examination of all such workers should be done atleast once in 5 years.
2.4.8 In order to complete the medical examination of all entitled workers, the management should
create suitable infrastructural facilities to meet the target specified above.
2.4.9 Categories of persons employed in oil mines requiring periodical medical examination should
be identified by consultations between the management of oil mines and DGMS.
2.4.10 DGMS should arrange to get notification issued for implementation of the above
recommendations.
2.5 Accuracy of Mine Plans
2.5.1 Mining companies should expeditiously implement in full recommendations of 5th
Conference on Safety in Mines regarding preparation and maintenance of mine plans, induction of
qualified surveyors in sufficient numbers etc.

2
2.5.2 Mining companies should evolve a suitable cadre structure for mine surveyors in order to
attract and retain competent and qualified persons in survey discipline.
2.5.3 It is accepted that preparation of' fresh plans after connecting mines to National Grid involves
work which is not only huge in quantum but complex in nature. Surveyors posted at mines would
not be in a position to carry out such surveys independently. A team of qualified surveyors should
be appointed at area level (as existing in CIL) which could undertake such surveys in association
with mine surveyors. Such a team should also conduct and carry out regular check surveys in
order to check the accuracy of mine plans at various mines.
2.5.4 Mine managements should avail themselves of various specialist facilities provided at
different institutions for up gradation of skill of mine surveyors. Suitable evaluation systems tests
should be conducted at the end of both short term (3-6 months) and long term courses (6-12
months) provided at such institutions for the grant of suitable certificates to the participants.
2.6: Development of Human Resources for Prevention of Accidents
2.6.1 Every worker should undergo appropriate training whenever there is change in his nature of
job.
2.6.2 Every worker involved in an accident should undergo special appropriate training before he
is re-assigned work in the mine.
2.6.3 The existing training facilities and programmes should be made more comprehensive, useful
and result oriented.
2.6.4 Suitable organisation for training of Workmen's Inspectors and members of Pit Safety
Committees should be created. Such an organisation should frame and conduct suitable and
appropriate training programmes in order to help them to discharge their responsibilities in a
proper manner.
2.6.5 Mining Companies should clearly identify the need for training of supervisors working in
mines. Mine managements should preferably make use of the services and expertise developed in
this regard by NCSM to supplement their own efforts in order to achieve the desired results in next
few years.
(Cir. Genl. 3/1986)

3
 RECOMMENDATIONS OF SEVENTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in New Delhi on 19th & 20th Dec., 1988

1.0 Review of status of implementation of recommendations of Fifth & Sixth Conferences

on Safety in Mines.
1.1 Manager of every underground mine should formulate 'Support Plan' for support of roof, sides,
back and hangwall. Opinion of Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Ltd. (Subsidiary of
CIL)/CMRS should be sought where geo-mining conditions are difficult. The 'Support Plan' should
be in respect of the following:
(a) Workings within 9 metres of the working faces.
(b) Along tramming levels and especially at loading points.
(c) Along haulage roadways and especially at junctions.
(d) At any other place (s) in the mine identified for support under Regulation 108 of the Coal Mines
Regulations, 1957 and Regulation 112 of the Metalliferous Mines Regulations, 1961.
Local geological conditions, physico-mechanical properties of strata, method of work including
mechanisation and past experience etc. may be taken into account while formulating such plan.
For non-coal mines, nature of strata, which in many cases is massive, may be taken into
consideration.
The plan should include:
(a) Type of supports e.g. safari supports, roof bolts, friction props, rigid props, or hydraulic props
etc.
(b) Duties and responsibilities of Timbermen, Dressers, Sirdars/Mates, Overmen/Foremen,
Assistant Managers, Managers and Agents towards supply of material, erection and withdrawal of
supports, inspection thereof and ensuring effectiveness of supports.
The 'Support Plan' should be submitted to DGMS for approval.
In case there is delay in formulation of such plan due to involvement of various agencies, interim
plan should be prepared and submitted immediately. Pending approval, the plan should be
implemented.
No person should be employed at any place which is not supported in accordance with the
approved 'Support Plan'
1.2 Intensive practical training and retraining should be given to persons engaged in support work
such as timbermen and dressers etc. by experienced and qualified persons. This should be
supplemented by organising workshops at mine level at quarterly intervals preferably by NCSM.
1.13 It is accepted that preparation of fresh plans after connecting mines to National Grid involves
work which is not only huge in quantum but complex to carry out such surveys independently. A
team of qualified surveyors should be appointed at area level (as existing in CIL) which could
undertake such surveys in association with mine surveyors. Such a team should also conduct and
carry out regular check surveys in order to check the accuracy of mine plans at various mines.
1.14 Mine managements should avail themselves of various specialist facilities provided at
different institutions for upgradation of skill of mine surveyors. Suitable evaluation system/tests
should be conducted at the end of both short term (3-6 months and long term courses (6-12
months) provided at such institutions for the grant of suitable certificates to the participants.
1.15 Every worker specially piece-rated loader should undergo appropriate training whenever
there is change in his nature of job.
1.16 Mining companies should clearly identify the need for training of supervisors working in
mines. Mine managements should preferably make use of the services and expertise developed in
this regard by NCSM to supplement their own efforts in order to achieve the desired results in next
few years.
1.17 In Oil mines, tri-partite meetings consisting of management, workers representatives and
DGMS should be arranged at intervals not exceeding 6 months during which safety performance
and progress of implementation of the Company's policy on Safety and Health and of the
recommendations of this Conference should be discussed. These meetings should be presided
over by representatives of management, labour and DGMS by rotation.

1
1.18 Tele-communication system should be introduced in a phased manner in below ground
mines in the next five years, giving priority according to distance, mechanisation, degree of
gassiness, and problems of fire.
1.19 In metalliferous mining companies, the Internal Safety Organisation (ISO) should be made
independent of the production line up at all levels within 6 months. .
1.20 The Chief of Internal Safety Organisation should be a senior officer next in rank only to the
Director (Tech) if any or M.D./The Chief Executive.
1.21 In mines, supply of drinking water at working places should be ensured.
1.22 In mines where long or arduous travel is involved, arrangements for transport of men should
be made.
1.3 In coal, no blasting-off-the-solid should be done except with proper type, of delay action
detonators and proper explosives.
1.4 Managements of oil mines should examine and review all installations vis-à-vis the safe
distance to be maintained and work out a time-bound action plan for rectification within six months
along with safety precautions to be taken in the interim period to minimise danger.
1.5 All fixed Internal Combustion Engines should be fitted with flame arrestors and air intake shut-
off valve with remote control. No new rig will be purchased or installed without these safety
devices. Oil and Natural Gas Commission and Oil India Ltd. will prepare and submit a programme
for phasing out such old rigs and will, within six months, also seek specific exemption for
continuance of each such rig.
1.6 A study should be undertaken to determine the causes of fires that occurred in oil mines in the
last five years. A report on the same indicating the remedial measures taken should be submitted
half yearly to DGMS.
1.7 Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters should be provided at mines.
Facilities of continuous type monitoring should be installed within one year in all degree III gassy
coal mines and in other mines having active underground fire or mines having serious problems of
heat as identified by mutual discussions between mine management and the Directorate-General
of Mines Safety.
1.8 Initial medical examination of all workers employed in underground mines should be
completed by June, 1989. Thereafter, periodical medical examination of such workers should be
done atleast once in 5 years.
1.9 Initial medical examination of all workers employed on surface and engaged in drilling, loading
and at crushing and screening plants should be completed by June, 1989. Thereafter, the
periodical medical examination of all such workers should be done atleast once in 5 years.
1.10 Categories of persons employed in oil mines requiring periodical medical examination should
be identified by consultations between the management of oil mines and DGMS.
1.11 To meet the requirement of qualified surveyors in mines, mining companies should
expeditiously induct apprentices in sufficient numbers.
1.12 Mining companies should evolve a suitable cadre structure for mine surveyors in order to
attract and retain competent and qualified persons in survey discipline.

2.0 Safety in Opencast Mining

2.1(a) Each company should frame suitable ‘code of traffic rules’ for regulating the movement of
Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (commensurate with the capacity/size, type of machines used in
the mechanised opencast mines) for enforcement in each mine. Such Code of Traffic Rules
should be approved by Tripartite Committee.
(b) The Code of Traffic Rules should be deliberated, framed and approved within a period of 6
months. The Code of Traffic Rules should be enforced in each company within a period of 12
months.
2.2 (a)' Each company operating mechanised mines should frame suitable 'Code of Practice' for
the prevention of injuries to persons engaged in tipping on stock piles, dumping of overburden at
dump yards, at loading points etc. Such 'Code of Practice' should be approved by Tripartite
Committee.

2
(b) The 'Code of Practice' should be deliberated, framed and approved within a period of 6
months. The code should be enforced in each mine within a period of 12 months.
2.3 The design and maintenance of haul roads in mechanised opencast mines should be laid
down by each company in respect of each mechanised opencast mine. If required, the company
may consult/interact with DGMS in this regard.
2.4 (a) Each company should ensure that for every mine a scheme is drawn- and implemented for
proper maintenance, repair, overhaul and erection in respect of heavy earth moving machinery.
This scheme should cover places such as repair sheds and workshops. Necessary help, if
required, should be obtained from the manufacturers of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM).
(b) Adequate attention should be given towards proper layout of repair sheds and workshops so
as to ensure due protection to work persons deployed at those places from the movement of
heavy earth moving machinery therein.
2.5 The operator's cabin of heavy earth moving machinery should be well designed and
substantially built so as to ensure adequate protection to the operator against heat, dust, noise
etc. and at the same time provide adequate safety to the operator in the event of overturning of
heavy earth moving machinery. A seatbelt for the safety of the operator should also be provided.
2.6 (a) Operator/driver of each HEMM should be selected from amongst persons possessing
requisite qualifications. The selection process should comprise a test to check driving/operating
skill, aptitude, health and oral examination of the candidate by a competent selection committee.
(b) All operators of HEMM should undergo regular checks to test their driving/operating skill,
knowledge and health once in every five years.
(c) Suitable training institute/training centre should be opened in each company to provide
comprehensive training so that only duly qualified and trained operators are always available
commensurate with the present and future needs of the mechanised mines.
2.7 A separate format for writing statutory reports by shotfires/blasters, mining sirdars/mates and
overmen/foremen employed at opencast mines should be prepared and circulated early.
2.8 A format for writing report of inspection of dragline wire ropes should be introduced early.
2.9 A code of practice shall be drawn up for dealing with fires at different locations in opencast
mines, including HEMM. Arrangements for fighting fire should be provided on all heavy earth
moving machineries. Such arrangements should, if possible, operate automatically on appearance
of fire.
2.10 Efficient lighting arrangements not below the standards prescribed in the statute shall be
provided and maintained at different locations in opencast mines.
2.11 Structural stability of HEMM should be examined periodically by an independent team of
experts. Such an examination may invariably be made after every major repair to HEMM.
4.0 Occupational Health Services in Mining Industry
4.1 There is a need for creation of a Department of Occupational Health Services in each mining
company working mechanised mines.
4.2 Occupational Health Services shall have sufficient technical personnel with specialised training
and experience in such field as occupational medicine, industrial hygiene, ergonomics,
occupational health and nursing. They should, as far as possible, keep themselves up-to-date with
progress in the scientific and technical knowledge necessary to perform their duties. The
Occupational Health Service should, in addition, have necessary administrative personnel for their
operation. Equipment and appliances of proper type should be provided for carrying out the
assigned functions.
4.3 The Occupational Health Services shall carry out the following functions:
(i) Identification and assessment of the risk from health hazards at work place;
(ii) Surveillance of the factors in working environment and work practices which may affect
workers' health;
(iii) Surveillance of workers' health in relation to work;
(iv) Education of workers on sanitation, cleanliness, hygiene and health care;
(v) Collaborating in providing information, training and education in the fields of occupational
health, industrial hygiene and ergonomics;

3
(vi) Organisation of first-aid in mines including training and retraining of first-aiders;
(vii) Preparing a quarterly status report on occupational health and industrial hygiene in the mines
of the concerned company. The quarterly report should include information on medical
examinations, notifiable diseases, status of first-aid, results of survey for air-borne dust, noise,
temperature, quantity of air and sanitation in working places;
(viii) The report of medical examination of each worker should be maintained regularly and the
record of periodical medical examinations should be maintained systematically. Application of
computer for storing and retrieval of data would be desirable;
(ix) Advising the management on occupational health, industrial hygiene, first-aid, ergonomics.
4.4 The Occupational Health Services shall be headed by a Senior Officer.
4.5 Occupational Health Physician should be a member of the Safety Committee where he could
contribute to the health education of workers.
4.6 (i) Management of every mechanised mine should, in consultation with experts of the
Occupational Health Services, prepare a scheme for -:
(a) Identification of operations and activities where factors which are hazardous to health of
persons at work exist or may arise during the course of work;
(b) Monitoring the levels or values of different factors which may affect health of persons;
(c) Specifying the various control measures necessary for keeping the levels/ values within the
permissible limits;
(d) Health surveillance;
(e) Health education;
(f) first-aid training.
(ii) The above scheme should clearly specify the types of instruments to be used for monitoring,
frequency of observations/examinations, type of training, education, recording of data and
responsibility of various persons for implementation of the scheme.
4.7 Management of every mine should ensure that:
(i) All mine workers are given basic training in first aid;
(ii) Holders of first-aid certificates are given refresher training once in two years;
(iii) rescue trained persons acquire highest standards of proficiency in first-aid;
(iv) Ambulance vans are fully equipped with life saving drugs, medicines and appliances needed in
emergency.
4.8 In respect of small mechanised mines which are mostly operating in non- coal sector, it may
not be feasible for a small organisation to create a special department on occupational health
services. For such small mines, it is suggested that an Association of small mine operators create
common facilities and infrastructure for occupational health services. Creation of such facility is
specially needed for asbestos, manganese and mica mines. Simultaneously with creation of
facilities for occupational health services it is also necessary
to improve quality of life of employees working in mining industry by provision of well planned
housing colonies with all modern facilities such as good drinking water, good sanitation, drainage
and recreational facility.

Recommendations on Traffic Rules and Procedures-See Cir.Tech. 1/1989

Recommendations on code of practice for tipping on stockpiles and dumping of OB – See
Cir.Tech. 1/1989

4
 RECOMMENDATIONS OF EIGHTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held in New Delhi on 14th May, 1993

1.0 Review of Status of implementation of recommendations of seventh conference on

safety in mines.
The committee decided to carry forward the following recommendations of the Seventh
Conference on Safety in Mines:
1.1 Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters in respect of methane &
carbon monoxide should be provided at mines. Facilities of continuous type monitoring should be
installed within two years in all degree III gassy coal mines and in other mines having active
underground fire. Indigenous manufacturers should be encouraged to manufacture necessary
equipment.
1.2 To meet the requirement of qualified surveyors in mines, mining companies should
expeditiously induct apprentices in sufficient number commensurate with the retirements and
additional requirements.
1.3 Though mining companies have evolved suitable cadre structure for mine surveyors in order to
attract and retain competent and qualified persons in survey discipline, but the same has not yet
been implemented. It should be implemented early.
1.4 Preparation of plans after connecting with National Grid by special teams shall be expedited
and this work shall be completed by December. 1995.
1.5 In mines where long or arduous travel is involved, arrangement for transport of men should be
made.
1.6 A code of practice shall be drawn up for dealing with fires at different locations in opencast
mines, including HEMM Arrangements for fighting fire should be provided on all heavy earth
moving machinery. Such arrangements should, if possible, operate automatically on appearance
of fire/smoke.
1.7 Every mining company operating mechanised mines shall create properly staffed and well
equipped Occupational Health Service before 31-12-1993.
1.8 In respect of small mechanised mines which are operating in non-coal sector, it may not be
feasible for a small organisation to create a special department on Occupational Health Services.
For such small mines, It is suggested that an Association of small mine operators creates common
facilities and infrastructure for occupational health services. Creation of such
facility is specially needed for asbestos, manganese and mica mines. Simultaneously with creation
of facilities for occupational health services, it is also necessary to improve quality of life of
employees working in mining industry by provisions of well planned housing colonies with all
modern facilities such as good drinking water, good sanitation, drainage and
recreational facility.
2.0 Prevention of Accidents in Coal Mines due to falls of roof
2.1 Because of variable nature of the roof strata in coal mines, these should be classified using
RMR method of geo-mechanical classification as suggested by the Expert Group (Paul
Committee).
2.2 The pattern and sequence of support should be as per recommendations of Paul Committee
and where support is required it should be such that at any point of time the last row of supports is
not more than 1.8m from the face, Blasting should not be able to dislodge the support system. In
case of poor and fair roof condition, quick setting grouted bolts be preferably used.
2.3 Every year in atleast 1/5th of the development districts suitable type of steel support should be
introduced.
2.4 Wherever practicable, roof bolting as a method of support should be used. Its performance
should be monitored regularly. A few conventional timber props may be used as indicator props.
2.5 Mining companies should take initiative to select/promote development of suitable type of drills
and other accessories for use in various types of roof strata. A task-force may be created for the
purpose which may oversee the introduction of steel supports.

1
2.6 Keeping in view the proposed replacement of conventional supports with steel supports,
suitable amendments should be made under CMR 1957 regarding duties of timbermen (support
personnel),
2.7 Arrangement shall be made to give proper training to support personnel.
2.8 Development of a portable instrument for detecting hidden slips in the roof should be taken up
on priority by R & D organizations.
3.0 Safety Education and Workers' Participation in safety Management
3.1 Training of Work-Persons
3.1.1 Each mining company should (either by itself or jointly) draw up model training schedules for
different categories of workpersons. Such schedules should be got vetted by the tripartite review
committees of respective companies by the 30th June 1994.
3.1.2 From 1.1.1995 training should be imparted as per the new schedules.
3.2 Training of supervisory officials
3.2.1 All front-line supervisory officials like Sirdar/Mates, Overmen/Foremen, Surveyors,
Electrical/Mechanical Supervisors/Chargemen/Foremen as well as persons supervising other
surface operations should be imparted structured training in safety management, for atleast two
weeks, once in every fire years, covering about 20% strength every year.
3.2.2 In addition to the existing criteria of eligibility to appear in Sirdar's/ Mate's examination, the
company should have arrangement to provide properly designed class-room training to candidates
for Sirdar's/Mate's examination.
3.3 Modern tools including audio-visual (video) should be used for imparting all training.
3.4 Workers' Participation in Safety Management
3.4.1 Members of Safety Committees should be given training to prepare them to discharge their
assigned functions efficiently. The syllabus of the training- programme should be drawn by
respective mining companies, to suit the local conditions and work practices. The training
programme should be of one week and should comprise of lectures and demonstrations as well as
field visits.
3.4.2 Such training should be completed by 30.6.94 in respect of existing members and all new
members should be imparted training within six months of their nomination.
3.4.3 Once in a year, the meeting of the Safety Committee should be attended by senior officials
of the Area and Trade Unions. The meeting may review recommendations made during the year
by the Committee together with status of implementation as well as the salient features of the
reports of Workmen's Inspectors. Similarly, at the Area level also similar meeting may be held.
4.0 Occupational Health Hazards
4.1 Part -A: Medical Surveillance
ILO Conventions Nos. 155 and 161 on Occupational Health Service with particular reference to
prevention of occupational diseases and health surveillance should be complied, with special
reference to the following:
4.1.2 There should be atleast one medical officer properly trained in occupational health in each
area who should also be associated with Periodical Medical Examinations.
4.1.2 Atleast one of the medical officers engaged in medical examinations should be trained in use
of ILO classification of radiographs for pneumoconiosis.
4.1.3 Adequate facilities for x-ray and Lung function tests should be provided at each medical
examination centre.
4.1.4 Health Surveillance record shall be properly maintained.
4.1.5 If the profusion of any type of pneumoconiosis opacities in chest x-ray is 1/0 or above as per
ILO classification, the case shall be certified and notified as pneumoconiosis.
4.1.6 One of the medical examinations of every person should be arranged within one year of his
superannuation.
4.1.7 To monitor the progress of profusion in certified cases of pneumoconiosis, medical
examination should be conducted at shorter intervals.
4.1.8 Each company should submit annual report on radiological results of medical examinations
in the enclosed format.

2
4.2 Part -B: Dust
4.2.1 Every mining company operating mechanised mines should take early steps to ensure that:
(a) Adequate arrangements and wherever necessary organisation and infrastructure facilities to
carry out dust surveys in mines are established within a period of one year.
(b) Air-borne dust surveys are completed and necessary control measures, wherever required,
taken within a period of 2 years:
(i) At all mechanised longwall faces, mechanised bord and pillar workings and road header
drivages in coal mines:
(ii) At all drilling, mechanised loading and crushing operations in non- coal mines;
(iii) At all ore/coal handling/beneficiation plants.
4.2.2 Necessary training should be imparted to the persons engaged on air- borne dust surveys
and control measures. .
4.3 Part – C: Noise
4.3.1 The recommendations of DGMS Cir. Technical 18 of 1975 shall be implemented forthwith.
4.3.2 All mining companies should take steps regarding:
(i) Standardisation of the information to be furnished by the manufacturers/suppliers, as well as its
assessment procedure;
(ii) Development and supply of proper type of ear protectors including helmet mounted ear muffs.
4.3.3 Audiometry should be introduced, as a part of mandatory medical examination, for persons
seeking employment in mines and for persons engaged in operations/areas where noise level
exceeds 90 dB (A).
4.4 The recommendations of VII Conference of Safety in Mines regarding the functions of
Occupational Health Services are reiterated. Progress on medical examinations, surveillance of
working environment, education and awareness activities shall be monitored at company level.
5.0 Safety in Opencast and Surface Operations
5.1.1 Any person to be employed to drive/operate HEMM should be trained and his competency
should be evaluated by a Board constituted by the mining company. The members of such board
should be persons who are not connected with imparting of training. However, the training officers
may be co-opted in the Board as observer.
5.1.2 Only such fitters/mechanics who possess driver's/operator's competency certificate should
be allowed to carry out test-run of HEMM.
The legal position whether the fitters/mechanics who carry out the test run would be required to
possess vehicle driving licence under Motor Vehicle Act should be examined.
5.1.3 To prevent unauthorised driving, a system should be evolved whereby the ignition key and/or
cabin key always remains with the driver/operator or with specifically designated competent
person(s).
5.2 Use of tractor-trailer combination on haul-roads should be discontinued. Where inevitable, the
trailer should have separate brake of its own and the use of four wheeled trailer should be
preferred. The operators should also be suitably trained on right selection of gears while travelling
downhill.
5.3 The portion of surface haul road in mine premises where there in heavy traffic of men and
machines, should have a separate lane properly fenced off from the haul road for pedestrians and
two-wheelers.
5.4 Wherever space permits, every mine should establish a system whereby loading and
unloading operations in the stockyard are not done simultaneously at the same place. In case
adequate space is not available, mine management should organize suitable traffic regulations for
eliminating risk element in the operations.
5.5 Trucks and other heavy vehicles, not belonging to management should not be allowed in the
mine premises without a valid pass issued by the competent authority of the mine.
Before the pass is issued, the mine engineer should check the road-worthiness of such vehicles.
In order to check entry of unauthorised vehicles in mine premises, each mine should establish
properly manned check gates where record of entry and exit of each such vehicle should be

3
maintained. At the check gate the licence of the drivers should also be checked for eliminating the
possibility of unlicenced persons driving the vehicles.
5.6 Persons engaged in surface operations and, in particular, the contractors' workers, who
incidentally are often inexperienced and least informed about job-safety matters, need closer and
more competent supervision. To minimise accidents due to surface operations, it would be
ensured that:
(i) All persons engaged at any work within the mine premises through the contractors have
received relevant training and other job-related briefings and that the drivers of vehicles belonging
to contractors entering the mine premises have additionally been explained the salient provisions
of "traffic rules"
Each mining company should draw up appropriate training schedules and modalities in this regard
and implement the same.
In case of smaller mines, such arrangement may be made by association of mine operators.
(ii) Each and every operation, including the operation carried out through contractors' workers or
by outside agency, is placed under the charge of a competent supervisor, duly appointed and
authorized by the management, his jurisdiction being clearly demarcated.
6.0 Safety in Oil Mines
6.1 The management of every mine carrying out exploration for and production of petroleum
should take due note of the proposed amendments to the Oil Mines Regulations, 1984 and initiate
necessary preparatory actions and gear themselves up for early implementation of the proposed
amendments relating to fire hazards.
6.2 The Oil & Natural Gas Commission and the Oil India Ltd. should set up a task force-
6.2.1 For drawing up model information sheets, safety report, emergency plan etc. and aiding the
mine managements in adopting the same with due regard to local conditions and system, and
6.2.2 for monitoring implementation of various provisions relating to fire hazards in oil mines with
particular reference to provisions of-
(a) Three BOPs on all drilling rigs;
(b) Audio-visual alarm at driller's stand to indicate gas kick;
(c) Adequate steps to prevent unauthorised entry to Christmas trees;
(d) Preparation of maps showing layout of different types of petroleum pipelines, date of
installation, position of controls etc.

(Cir. Tech. 2/1994)

4
 RECOMMENDATIONS OF NINTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
Held on 2nd-3rd February, 2000 at New Delhi

1.0 Review of Status of implementation of Recommendations of the 8th conference on

safety in mines:
The following recommendations from 8th Conference may be carried over:
1.1 Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters in respect of methane and
carbon monoxide should be provided at mines. Facilities of continuous type monitoring should be
installed within two years in all degree III gassy coal mines and in other mines having active
underground fire. Indigenous manufacturers should be encouraged to manufacture necessary
equipment.
1.2 In mines where long or arduous travel is involved, arrangement for transport of men should be
made.
l.3 In respect of small-mechanised mines, which are operating in non-coal sector, it may not be
feasible for a small organisation to create a special department on Occupational Health Services.
For such small mines, it is suggested that an Association of small mine operators creates common
facilities and infrastructure for occupational health services. Creation of such
Facility is specially needed for asbestos, manganese and mica mines. Simultaneously with
creation of facilities for occupational health services, it is also necessary to improve quality of life
of employees working in mining industry by provision of well planned housing colonies with all
modern facilities such as good drinking water, good sanitation, drainage and
recreational facility.
1.4.1 Suitable type of steel/metal supports should be introduced in all the development districts in
coal mines within two years.
1.4.2 Wherever practicable, roof bolting as a method of support in coal mines should be used. Its
performance should be monitored regularly. A few conventional timber props may be used as
indicator props.
1.4.3 Coal mining companies should- take initiative to select/promote development of suitable type
of drills and other accessories for use in various types of roof strata. A task force may be created
for the purpose which may oversee the introduction of steel supports.
1.4.4 Development of a portable instrument for detecting the hidden slips in roof of coal mines
should be taken up on priority by R&D organisations.
1.5 All front-line supervisory officials like Sirdars/Mates, Overmen/Foremen, surveyors,
Electrical/Mechanical supervisors/Chargemen/Foremen as well as persons supervising other
surface operations should be imparted structured training in safety management, for at least two
weeks, once in every five years, covering about 20% strength every year.
1.6 The recommendations of DGMS Cir. Tech. 18 of 1975 shall be implemented forthwith.
(Protection against noise and vibrations)
1.7 Audiometry should be introduced, as a part of mandatory medical examination, for-persons
seeking employment in mines and for persons engaged in operations/areas where noise level
exceeds 90 dB (A)
1.8.1 The portion of surface haul road in mine premises where there is heavy traffic of men and
machines should have separate lane properly fenced off from the haul road for pedestrians and
two wheelers.
1.8.2 Trucks and other heavy vehicles, not belonging to management should not be allowed in the
mine premises without a valid pass issued by the competent authority of the mine.
Before the pass is issued the mine engineer should check the roadworthiness of such vehicles.
In order to check entry of unauthorised vehicles in mine premises, each mine should establish
properly manned check gate(s) at the entrance(s) where record of entry and exit of each such
vehicle should be maintained.
At the check gate the licence of the drivers should also be checked for eliminating the possibility of
unlicensed persons driving the vehicles.

1
1.9 Persons engaged in surface operations and, in particular, the contractors' workers, who
incidentally are often inexperienced and least informed about job-safety matters, need closer and
more competent supervision. To minimise accidents due to surface operations it would be ensured
that:
-All persons engaged at any work within the mine premises through the contractors have received
relevant training and other job-related briefings and that the drivers of vehicles belonging to
contractors entering the mine premises have additionally been explained the salient provisions of
'traffic rules'.
-Each mining company should draw up appropriate training schedules and modalities in this
regard and implement the same.
-In case of smaller mines, such arrangement may be made by association of mine operators.

2.0 Preventing Mine disasters from inundation

2.1 Each mine shall be critically examined for its proneness to inundation and assessment
regarding danger of inundation and precautions to be taken should be reviewed and updated
yearly preferably before the onset of the monsoon. The recommendations may be deliberated in
the (Pit) Safety Committee of the mine and information disseminated as widely as possible.
2.2 Suitable infrastructure at area level may be provided for drilling advance boreholes to detect
presence of waterlogged workings in advance.
2.3 Embankments provided against river and jore to guard against inundation should be designed
properly keeping in view the engineering parameters. The details of such construction should be
properly shown in the underground plan and water danger plan.
2.4 Surface excavation or disturbance in or near major sources of water, which are connected or
are likely to be connected to belowground workings should be filled up completely.
2.5 Detailed precautions against inundation may be laid down while working beneath or in the
vicinity of river and major water bodies. This may include framing and implementing standing
orders for safe withdrawal of persons, including system of information both manual and automatic,
effective communication system and system of safe and timely withdrawal of persons to safety.
2.6 Mechanism may be developed for warning mines about impending heavy rains similar to
warning of impending cyclone issued in coastal areas for taking necessary action. Also co-
ordination with concerned agencies/departments about opening of dams in the rivers on the
upstream side should be examined.
2.7 Winding system serving as sole means of ingress and egress may be made constantly
available even in adverse weather conditions, failure of steam or electricity or any other reasons.
2.8 Effective communication may be established within the mine and between mines for safe
withdrawal of persons. Necessary standing orders in this regard need to be framed and enforced.
2.9 Recommendations of 6th Conference on Safety in Mines to evolve suitable cadre structure for
mine surveyors and upgradation of their skill by availing facilities at various institutions,
appointment of qualified surveyors and providing infrastructure including computerised facility at
area level to oversee survey work of the mine etc. may be implemented.
2.10 R&D efforts should be continued to develop a system for construction of water-tight chamber
as last refuge belowground in case of inundation.

3.0 Preventing Mine Disasters from Fire, and Effective Emergency Response
3.1 Considering the risk of fire, all coal mine companies shall rank its coalmines on a uniform scale
according to its risk from fire on scientific basis. Guidelines may be framed by DGMS and
circulated to all mining Companies.
3.2 Recognizing the urgent need for making the emergency plan responsive, speedy and effective,
each mine shall review the existing emergency plan, at a higher level keeping in view the risk from
fire.
3.3 A tripartite committee may be formed to study the feasibility of establishing rescue rooms in
coal mines having risk of fire and employing more than 350 persons ordinarily employed in a shift
belowground.

2
3.4 A tripartite committee may be formed to study the feasibility of storing oxygen type self
rescuers at strategic places belowground in coal mines with risk of fire in such scale so as to cater
to the needs of persons who can be affected in an emergency.
3.5 Each mining company shall formulate and implement structured training programme for
development of awareness and increasing effectiveness of emergency response in case of fire
amongst work persons, officials and management.
3.6 Through sustained and meaningful R&D activities, mining companies and research institutions
shall help in creating a better understanding of the complex geo-mining situations leading to the
occurrence of fire, which in turn will help in formulating guidelines to combat the problem of fire in
effective manner. Early detection of heating, effect of reversal of fan and control of fire, other
associated aspects may be studied.

4.0 Risk Management as a Tool or Development of Appropriate Health and Safety

Management Systems
4.1 Every mining company should identify one or more mines and should undertake a formal risk
assessment process aimed at reducing the likelihood and impact of mishaps of all kinds in mines.
Subsequently risk assessment process should be extended to other mines.
4.2 Risk assessment process should aim at effective management of risks, by identifying,
(i) Which risks are most in need of reduction, and the options for achieving that risk reduction,
(ii) Which risks need careful on-going management, and the nature of the on-going attention.
4.3 The risk assessment exercise should follow an appropriate process.
4.4 Risk management plan shall be prepared on the basis of risk assessment and implemented in
the identified mines.

5.0 Quality Control for Improving Safety

5.1 Each mining company and the manufacturer/supplier shall satisfy themselves that the product
has valid approval where applicable and conform to relevant standards where available at the time
of supply
5.2 Each large mining company may set up quality control cell or strengthen where the same
exists, identify critical items which require testing for qualify assurance at the time of procurement
and during use and arrange testing of the same. Testing facilities may be set up wherever
feasible.
5.3 Any defect or failure of approved items or those having BIS certification may be promptly
brought to the notice of the appropriate authority for further action.

6.0 Communication system between DGMS offices and Mine Management at Site
6.1 Recognizing existence of a large variety of communication systems in mines, a comprehensive
review of the existing communication systems at all mines in all mining companies should be
undertaken and a consolidated status report prepared for working out a realistic and effective
system of communication.
6.2 In organized mining sector, an effective internal and external system of communication
besides P&T means shall be established both ways between the mines and, Rescue
Rooms/stations, hospitals and DGMS offices.
6.3 Each mining company in the organized sector shall formulate and implement a comprehensive
communication protocol clearly assigning duties and responsibilities of persons at various levels.
6.4 In un-organized mining sector, effective communication system shall be established in the
following manner:
(i) In large mines effective wireless communication within the mine including attendance rooms
and manager's office and residence, and
(ii) P&T telephone at manager's office and residence.
6.5 Steps shall be taken to strengthen communication system within DGMS offices and amongst
DGMS offices and mine sites besides other concerned agencies.

3
7.0 Safety in Oil Mines -Blowout and fire hazards
7.1 General-Each oil company shall formulate a system to monitor all incidents of fire and blowout,
whether or not involving loss of life, injuries and loss of property, investigate the causes and take
necessary remedial \ measures.
7.2 Precautions against blowout:
7.2.1 Each oil company shall frame an action plan to provide following safety devices in all the
drilling rigs:
(a) Pit level indicator registering increase or reduction in the drilling mud volume with an audio-
visual warning device near the driller's stand,
(b) A gas detector or explosimeter at the primary shale shaker with audio-visual warning device
near the driller's stand,
(c) A device to accurately measure the mud required to keep well filled at all the time and
(d) A device to ensure filling of the well with mud when string is being pulled out.
7.2.2 To ascertain that BOPs function properly up-to their rated capacity, it is essential that all
BOPs choke manifolds are pressure tested as prescribed. Adequate facilities/hydraulic test
benches shall be provided in each company so that BOPs and their accessories can be pressure
tested to ensure their effectiveness.
7.2.3 At regular intervals, blowout mock rehearsals shall be carried out. Drilling crew including the
chemists and geologists at the well site shall be trained so that they recognize the warning signs of
a kick and know what action must be taken to detect and control a kick.
7.2.4 Fitness of the drilling rigs, work-over rigs and well head equipment should be checked
initially and periodically. Quality control procedures for tubings/casings shall be appraised and
strengthened.
7.2.5 At the time of drilling of the wells, geo-technical details shall be thoroughly disseminated with
the concerned drilling crew to forewarn them about the presence of gas/oil bearing horizons etc.
7.3 Precautions against Fire
7.3.1 Each Oil company shall examine the condition of pipelines carrying hydrocarbon with special
emphasis on:
-Trunk lines
-High pressure gas/oil pipelines
.-Pipelines passing through highly populated area, rivers etc.
-Old pipe lines.
Action plan shall be prepared to take corrective action in a phased manner.
7.3.2 Plans of pipe lines of flowing wells connected with group gathering stations shall be up-dated
showing villages, surface features, location of valves etc. and copy of such plans shall be
displayed at every group gathering station.
7.3.3 Work permit system for hot work, cold work and electrical work should be formulated and
implemented under the competent supervision at all the oil installations.

8.0 Occupational Health Surveillance in mining industry

8.1 Occupational Health Services as recommended by 7th Conference wherever not yet
established shall be established within a period of one year.
8.2 Each- mining company operating mechanised mines shall computerise all records of medical
and environmental surveillance.
8.3 Every PME Centre shall be provided with the facility for chest radiographs, lung function tests,
arrangement for classification of chest radiographs and also wherever required facilities for
audiometry.
8.4 All chest radiographs of Initial and Periodical Medical Examinations shall be classified for
detection, diagnosis and documentation of pneumoconiosis in accordance with ILO classification
for pneumoconiosis.
8.5 The PME Medical Officer in every PME centre shall be trained in occupational health and use
of ILO classification for pneumoconiosis.

4
8.6 Each mining company operating mechanised mines shall set up an Occupational Diseases
Board consisting of one Occupational Health Physician, one radiologist and one general physician.
8.7 Occupational Diseases Board shall formulate guidelines for referral re-evaluation, classification
of cases of pneumoconiosis and necessary remedial actions at workplace as well as rehabilitation
of affected persons(s)

9.0 Increasing effectiveness of workers' participation in safety management

9.1 All mechanised mines and mines using heavy earth moving machinery for exploitation of
minerals, where 100 (one hundred) or more workers are employed should appoint Workmen's
Inspectors.
9.2 In large mines sectional/departmental safety committees under the main safety committee may
be constituted for specific areas of operation.
9.3 The tenure of the safety committee shall normally be for a period of two years.
9.4 Arrangements shall be made to train the trainers of the Safety Committee members.
9.5 One of the agenda items in the periodic meetings of the Boards of mining companies shall be
‘safety performance appraisal’ of the company.

(Cir. Tech. 3/2000)

5
 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE TENTH CONFERENCE ON SAFETY IN MINES
HELD ON 26th AND 27th November 2007, AT NEW DELHI.

Besides reviewing the status of implementation of the recommendations of Ninth Conference on

Safety in Mines, the conference had deliberated upon and had made valuable recommendations on
the following subjects:
1. Contractor Work Vis-à-vis Safety.
2. Safety Issues in Mines in Unorganized Sector.
3. Occupational Health Surveillance & Notified Diseases.
4. Mechanization with a view to Phase-out Manual loading & to improve Safety Standards.
5. Reduction of Risk from Roof and Side Falls in Coal Mines.
6. Safety of contractor workers and Implementation of “Cold Work Permit” in Oil Mines.
7. Belowground Communication and Tracking System.
8. “Safety Management System” Strategies for Implementation and Path Forward.
9. Implementation of ILO Convention No. 176 in Mines.

1.0 Review of Status of Implementation of Recommendation of the 9th Conference on

Safety in Mines:
1.1 Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters in respect of Methane &
Carbon Monoxide should be provided at mines. Facilities of continuous type monitoring should be
installed within two years in all degree III gassy coal mines and in such other mines having active
underground fire. Indigenous manufacturers should be encouraged to manufacture necessary
equipments. Time bound programme is to be made, which should be decided in a tripartite
committee at company level.
1.2 In mines where long or arduous travel is involved, arrangement for transport of men should be
made. Time bound programme is to be made, which should be decided in a tripartite committee at
company level.
1.3 In respect of small-mechanized mines, which are operating in non-coal sector, it may not be
feasible for a small organization to create a special department on Occupational Health Services.
For such small mines, it is suggested that an Association of small mines operators creates
common facilities and infrastructure for occupational health services. Creation of such facilities is
specially needed for asbestos, manganese and mica mines.
Simultaneously with creation of facilities for occupational health services, it is also necessary to
improve quality of life of employees working in mining industry by provision of well planned
housing colonies provided with all modern facilities such as good drinking water, good sanitation,
drainage and recreational facilities. DGMS should collect complete information as adequate feed
back has not been received.
1.4 Development of a portable instrument for detecting the hidden slips in the roof of
Coalmines should be taken up on priority by R&D organizations. The instrument should be
developed by an S&T project which should be guided by a committee consisting of an officer from
DGMS and others from Coal Industry and Research Organizations.
1.5 All front-line supervisory officials like Sirdars / Mates, Overmen /Foremen, Surveyors,
Electrical/ Mechanical supervisors/Chargemen / Foremen as well as persons supervising other
surface operations should be imparted structured training in safety management, for at least two
weeks, once in every five years, covering about 20% strength every year.
1.6 The recommendations of DGMS (Tech) Circular No.18 of 1975 shall be implemented forthwith.
(Protection of workers against Noise & Vibration in Working Environment.)
1.7 Audiometry should be introduced, as a part of mandatory medical examination, for persons
seeking employment in mines and for persons engaged in operations/areas where noise level
exceeds 90 dB (A).
1.8 (a) Before the valid gate pass is issued for entry of trucks and other vehicles not belonging to
management into the mine, the mine engineer should check the road-worthiness of such vehicles.

1
 (b) In order to check entry of unauthorized vehicles in mine premises, each mine should establish
properly manned check gate(s) at the entrance(s) where record of entry and exit of each such
vehicle should be maintained.
1.9 Persons engaged in surface operations and, in particular, the contractors’ workers, who
incidentally are often inexperienced and least informed about job-safety matters, need closer and
more competent supervision. To minimize accidents due to surface operations it would be ensured
that:
(a) All persons engaged at any work within the mine premises through the contractors have
received relevant training and other job-related briefings and that the drivers of vehicles belonging
to contractors entering the mine premises have additionally been explained the salient provisions
of "traffic rules".
(b) Each mining company should draw up appropriate training schedules and modalities in this
regard and implement the same.
(c) In case of smaller mines, such arrangement may be made by association of mine operators.
1.10 Preventing Mine Disasters from Inundation
1.10.1 Recommendations of 6th Conference on Safety in Mines –
(a) To evolve suitable cadre structure for mine surveyors and up gradation of their skill by
availing facilities at various institutions, appointment of qualified surveyors.
(b) Providing infrastructure including computerized facility at area level to oversee survey work of
the mine etc. may be implemented.
1.10.2 R&D efforts should be continued to develop a system for construction of water-tight
chamber as last refuge below ground in case of inundation.
1.11 Preventing Mine Disasters from Fire, and Effective Emergency Response
1.11.1 Considering the risk of fire, all coal mine companies shall rank its coalmines on a uniform
scale according to its risk from fire on scientific basis. Guidelines may be framed by DGMS and
circulated to all mining companies.
1.11.2 Each mining company shall formulate and implement structured training programme for
development of awareness and increasing effectiveness of emergency response in case of fire
amongst work persons, officials and management.
1.12 Quality Control for Improving Safety
1.12.1 Each large mining company may setup quality control cell or strengthen where the same
exist, identify critical items which require testing for quality assurance at the time of procurement
and during use and arrange testing of the same. Testing facilities may be setup wherever feasible
1.12.2 Any defect or failure of approved items or those having BIS certification may be promptly
brought to the notice of the appropriate authority for further action.

1.13 Safety in Oil mines – Blowout and Fire hazards

1.13.1 Precautions against Blowout:
Each oil company shall frame an action plan to provide following safety devices in all the drilling
rigs:
(a) Pit level indicator registering increase or reduction in the drilling mud volume with an audio-
visual warning device near the driller’s stand,
(b) A gas detector or explosimeter at the primary shale shaker with audio-visual warning device
near the driller’s stand,
(c) A device to accurately measure the mud required to keep well filled at all the time, and
(d) A device to ensure filling of the well with mud when string is being pulled out.
1.13.2 Precautions against Fire
Plans of pipe lines of flowing wells connected with group gathering stations shall be up-dated
showing villages, surface features, location of valves etc. and copy of such plans shall be
displayed at every group gathering station.

2
1.14 Occupational Health Surveillance in Mining Industry
1.14.1 All chest radiographs of Initial and Periodical Medical Examinations in private mines shall
be classified for detection, diagnosis and documentation of pneumoconiosis in accordance with
ILO classification for pneumoconiosis.
1.14.2 The PME Medical Officer in every PME centre of private mines shall be trained in
occupational health and use of ILO classification for pneumoconiosis.
1.14.3 Each mining company operating mechanized mines shall set up an Occupational Diseases
Board consisting of one occupational Health Physician, one radiologist and one general physician.
1.15 Increasing Effectiveness of Worker’s Participation in Safety Management
1.15.1 All private mechanized mines and mines using heavy earth moving machinery for
exploitation of minerals, where 100 (hundred) or more number of workers are employed, should
appoint Workmen’s Inspectors.
1.15.2 In large mines sectional/departmental safety committees under the main safety committee
may be constituted for specific area of operation.
2.0 Contractor work vis-à-vis Safety
2.1 Employer’s responsibilities
(a) Suitable clauses (in consistence with risk of the work allotted) shall be included in tender
document (including NITs) stating how the risk arising to men & material from the mining operation
/ operations to be done by the contractors shall be managed.
(b) Ensure that contractors are familiar with the relevant parts of the statute, health and safety
management system and are provided with copies of such documents prior to commencing work.
(c) Ensure that contractor’s arrangements for health and safety management are consistent with
those for the mine owner. All the rules, regulations and bye-laws as applicable to the mine owner
are also applicable to the contractor. Details of the contractors’ workmen should be maintained in
the owner’s Form-B Register. Whereas, C, D & E Registers for contractor men may be maintained
independently by the owner. All the above Registers shall be kept in the mine office of the
manager.
(d) Ensure that contracts should preferably be of longer period (three years), so that there is
adequate scope of management of safety by the contractor.
(e) Ensure that contractor’s provide the machinery, operator and other staff with written safe work
procedures for the work to be carried out, stating clearly the risk involved and how it is to be
managed.
(f) Monitor all activities of the contractors to ensure that contractors are complying with all the
requirements of statute and the system related to safety. If found non-compliant of safety laws
directing the contractor to take action to comply with the requirements, and for further non-
compliance, the contractor may be suitably penalized. Clause to this affect may be a part of the
agreement between the employer and the contractor.
(g) Where a risk to health or safety of a person arises because of a non-compliance directing the
contractor to cease work until the non-compliance is corrected.
2.2 Contractor’s responsibilities
(a) Prepare written Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) for the work to be carried out, including an
assessment of risk, wherever possible and safe methods to deal with it/them.
(b) Provide a copy of the SOP to the person designated by the mine owner who shall be
supervising the contractor's work.
(c) Keep an up to date SOP and provide a copy of changes to a person designated by the mine
owner.
(d) Ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with the Statute and SOP and for the purpose
he may deploy adequate qualified and competent personnel for the purpose of carrying out the job
in a safe manner.
(e) For work of a specified scope/nature, develop and provide to the mine owner a site specific
code of practice.

3
(f) Ensure that all sub-contractors hired by him comply with the same requirement as the
contractor himself and shall be liable for ensuring compliance all safety laws by the sub or sub-sub
contractors.
(g) All persons deployed by the contractor for working in a mine must undergo vocational training,
initial medical examination, PME. They should be issued cards stating the name of the contractor
and the work and its validity period, indicating status of VT & IME.
(h) Every person deployed by the contractor in a mine must wear safety gadgets to be provided
by the contractor. If contractor is unable to provide, owner/agent/manger of the mine shall provide
the same.
(i) The contractor shall submit to DGMS returns indicating – Name of his firm, Registration
number, Name and address of person heading the firm, Nature of work, type of deployment of
work persons, Number of work persons deployed, how many work persons hold VT Certificate,
how many work persons undergone IME and type of medical coverage given to the work persons.
The return shall be submitted quarterly (by 10th of April, July, October & January) for contracts of
more than one year. However, for contracts of less than one year, returns shall be submitted
monthly.
2.3 Employee’s responsibilities
(a) An employee must, while at work, take reasonable care for the health and safety of people
who are at the employee’s place of work and who may be affected by the employee’s act or
omissions at work.
(b) An employee must, while at work, cooperate with his or her employer or other persons so far
as is necessary to enable compliance with any requirement under the act or the regulations that is
imposed in the interest of health, safety and welfare of the employee or any other person.
3.0 Safety Issues in mines in unorganized sector
3.1 The States in general may grant mining/quarrying leases of a size not less than ten hectares
each for an appropriate period, depending on technical feasibility, so that the lessee can make
medium to long-term plan for investment in infrastructure and work the mines in a safe and
scientific manner. In case smaller lease needs to be granted, it should be ensured that the Central
Laws, including the Mines Act are complied with.
3.2 In case of stone quarries on hillocks, whole of the hillock should be given out as a single lease
so that necessary development could be done from top-downwards after making approach road to
reach to top of the hillock before starting extraction of stone. A condition to this effect may be
incorporated before granting such leases.
3.3 In the lease document, reference should be made to the Mines Act and the Rules and
Regulations made there under for compliance. The DGMS may prepare, in consultation with
Ministry of Mines a model document for grant of leases by the state governments so that the
conditions of leases are such that there is a uniformity and compliance with central laws.
3.4 A copy of the lease document should be sent to the DGMS and lessees explicitly asked to
send notice of opening of mine to DGMS in accordance to the Provisions of the Mines Act.
3.5 The Conference has noted that there have been instances in some States where leases have
been granted in close proximity of inhabited area and within 45 m of Railway acquired land and
land acquired for National and State highways, public works without consulting the appropriate
statutory authority. The conference recommends that the States may grant mining leases in
conformity of Central Laws.
3.6 DGMS should organize Orientation Programmes for officers of State Mines and Geology
Departments to inform them about safety laws.

4.0 Occupational Health Surveillance and Notified Diseases.

4.1 Noise mapping should be made mandatory of various work places in the mine premises based
on the various machines being used in concerned mines along with personal noise dosimetry of
individual workmen exposed to noise level above 85 db(A).
4.2 Vibration studies of various mining machinery required to be done before their introduction in
mining operations as per ISO standards.
4
 4.3 Ergonomical assessment of all latest machines, before their introduction into mining
operation as per ISO standards. Ergonomical assessment should include:
* Assessment of work process.
* Assessment of working Aids/tools
* Assessment of working posture
4.4 Potability tests of drinking water supplied to the mine employees, to be made mandatory
once in a year irrespective of its source, preferably after Rainy seasons, the sample of water
should be collected from the points of consumption
4.5 Initial medical examination shall be made mandatory for all mining employees whether
permanent, temporary or contractual, before they are engaged in any mining job.
4.6 The frequency of periodic medical examinations should be brought down from existing five
years to three years for the mining employees above 45 years of age. This should be implemented
in three years.
4.7 Standards of medical examinations for both Initial and Periodic should be modified as
mentioned below in order to ensure early diagnosis of more diseases caused or get aggravated
due to employment in mines.
(a) In addition to measurement of blood pressure, detailed cardiovascular assessment of
employees should be done. This should include 12 leads electrocardiogram and complete lipid
profile.
(b) Detailed neurological examinations including testing of all major superficial and deep reflexes
and assessment of peripheral circulation to diagnose vibrational syndromes.
(c) In addition to routine urine, fasting and post-parandial blood sugar should be included for
early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
(d) Serum Urea and Creatinine should be included for assessment of renal function.
(e) Hematological tests like Total count, Differential count, percentage of Hemoglobin and
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate should be included to diagnose Blood Dyscrasias.
4.8 Special tests should be included in the PME for employees exposed to specific health
hazard;
(a) For employees exposed to manganese, special emphasis should be given to behavioral and
neurological disturbances such as speech defect, tremor, impairment of equilibrium,
adiadochokinesia H2S and emotional changes.
(b) For persons exposed to lead, PME should include blood lead analysis and delta
aminolevulinic acid in urine, at least once in a year.
(c) Employees engaged in food handling and preparation and handling of stemming material
activities should undergo routine stool examination once in every six months and sputum for AFB
and chest radiograph once in a year.
(d) Employees engaged in driving/ HEMM operation jobs should undergo eye refraction test at
least once in a year.
(e) Employees exposed to ionizing radiation should undergo Blood count at least once in a year.
4.9 It is proposed to include following diseases in the list of Notified diseases under Section 25 (1)
of Mines Act, 1952:
(a) All other types of Pneumoconiosis excluding Coal workers pneumoconiosis, Silicosis and
Asbestosis. This includes Siderosis & Berillyosis.
(b) Noise induced hearing loss.
(c) Contact Dermatitis caused by direct contact with chemicals.
(d) Pathological manifestations due to radium or radioactive substances.
4.10 For smaller mines where PME facilities are not existing, medical examinations can be done
through other competent agencies.
5.0 Mechanization with a view to phase-out manual loading & to improve safety
standards.
5.1 Keeping in view the objective of phasing out manual loading, all coal companies shall
identify appropriate technology suitable for the prevailing geo-mining conditions and

5
introduce the same in such a manner so as to phase out manual loading operations completely
within a period of five years in coal seams with gradient of 1 in 5 or less, and within a period of
seven years in coal seams with gradient steeper than 1 in 5.
5.2 While formulating the strategies for face mechanization in underground workings, it shall be
ensured that back up facilities like coal evacuation, support system, ventilation arrangements etc.
are compatible with face mechanization.
5.3 The scheme of face mechanization shall be based on proper scientific investigation.
The scheme shall also include arrangements for monitoring strata behavior and environmental
conditions.
5.4. Possibility of deployment of multi-skilled miners in the face shall be explored to reduce the
exposure at hazardous areas without affecting employment.
5.5. Suitable training for efficient & safe operation of machinery shall be imparted to all concerned.
5.6 While planning for face mechanization, due considerations shall be given for long term
sustainability of the technology.
5.7 A policy document shall be framed by each coal mining company within a period of six
months for addressing the implementation issues. It shall also be ensured that all safety features
are inbuilt into the system.
6.0 Reduction of risk from roof and side falls in coal mines
6.1 In every coal mining company, STRATA CONTROL CELL shall be established at corporate
and area levels within a period of one year, to assist mine managers, for formulation of Systematic
Support Rules, monitoring strata control measures in a scientific way to ensure efficacy of support
system and for procurement/supply of quality supporting materials. Such cell shall be manned by
adequate number of technical personnel headed by a senior official not below the rank of General
Manager at Corporate level and Dy. General Manager at Area level.
6.2 Roof bolting shall be used as a primary means of support for freshly exposed roof in
development as well as depillaring districts. For the roof category “Poor”, having value of RMR of
40 or less, or where there is excessive seepage of water from the roof strata, roof bolts exclusively
with resin capsules shall be used to ensure adequate & immediate reinforcement of the strata.
6.3 Due emphasis shall be given to support the sides of galleries while framing Systematic
Support Rules.
6.4 Suitable steps shall be taken by the mining companies to inculcate a culture of “no work at
face” other than supporting work, till the roof is supported by roof bolts up to at least 0.6 meter
from the face.
6.5 To ensure proper drilling for roof bolting in all types of roof strata, suitable fit-for-use roof
bolting machines shall be introduced in all mines within a period of one year.
Such machines shall be capable of being operated from a distance or be provided with suitable
canopy to protect the supporting personnel during drilling or bolting operations.
6.6 Risk assessment exercise shall be carried out in the mines for assessing the risk from the
hazards of roof & side falls and identifying the control mechanism with specific responsibility for
implementation. This exercise shall be reviewed at regular intervals not exceeding a year.
6.7 Each company shall take steps to impart structured training to officers, supervisors and
support personnel on roof bolting.

7.0 Safety of Contractor Workers and Implementation of "Cold Work Permit" in Oil
mines.
7.1 Contractor workers:
(a) Before the commencement of the work by the contractor the job shall be thoroughly assessed
for potential hazards and risks to the contractor worker and appropriate measures shall be taken
to mitigate them.
(b) Adequate supervision by the management shall be provided for the work to be carried out by
the contractor.
(c) Frequent change of contractual employee shall not be allowed.

6
7.2 Issue of cold work permit
(a) Where the risk arising from the work to be performed under given circumstances at the
installation, demands a stringent system of control to ensure safety of work persons, the
management shall ensure that such work is carried out only by issuing a cold work permit.
(b) The cold work permit shall be in a standardized format specifying place, time, date, and
duration of such work, the precautions to be taken and other relevant details.
(c) Relevant training shall be imparted to all concerned for successful implementation of cold
work permit
Definition: “Cold work” means any work which is of non-routine nature so identified by the
manager.
8.0 Belowground Communication and Tracking System
8.1 All belowground mines shall be provided with efficient voice communication from the working
districts/places to the surface.
8.2 Mining companies in collaboration with research institutions/ equipment manufacturers shall
initiate and fund for, suitable research initiatives for establishment of appropriate communication
system for below ground mines including to locate the trapped miners.
8.3 Mine management in collaboration with equipment manufacturers shall evolve a system of
proximity warning device in HEMM and initiate measures for its implementation.
All the recommendations should be complied within a period of four years.
9.0 “Safety Management System”: Strategies for Implementation and Path Forward
9.1 Every mine should employ a sound risk analysis process, should conduct a risk assessment,
and should develop a safety management plan to address the significant hazards identified by the
analysis/ assessment.
9.2 The managements of every mining company should adopt the process of safety management
system and commit itself for proper formulation and implementation of the same in totality.
Necessary resources should be allocated for implementation of the control measures identified by
the risk assessment process.
9.3 Necessary training of all employees of mining companies should be organized with the help
of experts, both national and international, for optimal adoption of the safety management system.
10.0 Implementation of ILO Convention No.176 in mines
The Committee decided that a separate discussion be held by the Govt. of India in a tripartite
forum to deliberate on the implications arising out of ILO Convention No.176.

7
 Recommendations of 11th conference on Safety in Mines held on 4th
& 5th July, 2013 at New Delhi.

COMMITTEE ‘A’
1. Review of status of implementation of recommendations of 10th Conference
on Safety in Mines.

The committee unanimously decided to carry forward the following Para of the
recommendations of the 10th Conference on Safety in Mines, namely:-

1.1(a) Necessary facilities for monitoring the environmental parameters in respect of

Methane and Carbon Monoxide should be provided at mines. Facilities of
continuous type monitoring should be installed within two years in all degree III
gassy COAL and in such other mines having active underground fire.
1.1(b) Indigenous manufacturers should be encouraged to manufacture necessary
equipments.
1.1(c) Time bound programme is to be made, which should be decided in a tripartite
committee at company level.
1.2 In underground specified mines where long or arduous travel is involved,
arrangement for transport of men should be made with a target of 20 % every
year.
1.3(a) In respect of small-mechanised mines, which are operating in NON-COAL
sector, it may not be feasible for a small organization to create a special
department on Occupational Health Services. For such small mines, it is
suggested that an Association of small mines operators creates common
facilities and infrastructure for occupational health services. Creation of such
facilities are specially needed for asbestos, manganese and mica mines.
1.4 Development of a portable instrument for detecting hidden slips in roof of COAL
mines should be taken up on priority by R&D organizations. The instrument
should be developed by S&T project which should be guided by a committee
consisting of an officer from DGMS and others from COAL Industry and
Research Organisations.
1.8(a) Before the valid gate pass is issued for entry of trucks and other vehicles not
belonging to management into the mine, the mine engineer should check the
road-worthiness of such vehicles.
1.8(b) In order to check entry of un-authorized vehicles in mine premises, each mine
should establish property manned check gate(s) at the entrance(s) where
record of entry and exist of each such vehicle should be maintained.
1.9(a) All persons engaged at any work within the mine premises through the
contractors have received relevant training and other job-related briefings and
that the drivers of vehicles belonging to contractors entering the mine premises
have additionally been explained the salient provisions of "traffic rules".
1.9(b) Each mining company should draw up appropriate training schedules and
modalities in this regard and implement the same.
1.9(c) In case of smaller mines, such arrangement may be made by association of
mine operators.

1
1.11.1 Considering the risk of fire, all COAL mine companies shall rank its COAL mines
on a uniform scale according to its risk from fire on scientific basis. Guidelines
may be framed by DGMS and circulated to all mining companies.

2.0 Contractor work vis-à-vis safety

2.0 Contractor work vis.-a-vis. safety

2.1 Employer's responsibilities
2.1(a) Suitable clauses (in consistence with risk of the work allotted) shall be included
in tender document (including NITs) stating how the risk arising to men and
material from the mining operation/operations to be done by the contractors
shall be managed.
2.1(b) Ensure that contractors are familiar with the relevant parts of the statutes,
health and safety management system and are provided with copies of such
documents prior to commencing work.
2.1(c) Ensure that contractor's arrangements for health and safety management are
consistent with those for the mine owner. All the rules, regulations and bye-laws
as applicable to the mine owner are also applicable to the contractor. Details of
the contractor's workmen should be maintained in the owners Form-B register.
Whereas as C, D & E registers for contractor men may be maintained
independently by the owner and shall be kept in the mine office of the manager.
2.1(d) Ensure that contracts should preferably of longer period (3 years), so that there
is adequate scope of management of safety by the contractor.
2.1(e) Ensure that contractors provide the machinery, operator and other staff with
written safe work procedures for the work to be carried out, stating clearly the
risk involved and how it is to be managed.
2.1(f) Monitor all activities of the contractors to ensure that contractors are complying
with all the requirements of statute and the system related to safety. If found
non-compliance of safety laws directing the contractors to take action to comply
with the requirements and for non-compliance, the contractor may be suitably
penalized. Clause to this affect may be a part of the agreement between the
employer and the contractor.
2.1(g) Where a risk to health or safety of a person arises because of a non-
compliance directing the contractor to cease work until the non- compliance is
corrected.
2.2 Contractor's responsibilities:
2.2(a) Prepare written Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) for the work to be carried out,
including an assessment of risk, wherever possible and safe methods to deal
with it/them.
2.2(b) Provide copy of the SOP to the person designated by the mine owner who shall
be supervising the contractor's work.
2.2(c) Keep an up to date SOP and provide a copy of changes to a person designated
by the mine owner
2.2(d) Ensure that all work is carried out in accordance with the Statue and SOP and
for the purpose he may deploy adequate qualified and competent personnel for
the purpose of carrying out the job in a safe manner.
2.2(e) For work of a specify scope/nature, develop and provide to the mine owner a
site specific Code of Practice (COP).
2.2(f) Ensure that all sub-contractors hired by him comply with the same requirement
2
 as the contractor himself and shall be liable for ensuring the compliance all
safety laws by the sub or sub-sub contractors.
2.2(g) All persons deployed by the contractor for working in mine must undergo
vocational training, initial medical examination, PME. They should be issued
cards stating the name of the contractor and the work and its validity period,
indicating status of VT & IME.
2.2(h) Every person deployed by the contractor in a mine must wear safety gadgets to
be provided by the contractor. If contractor is unable to provide, owner, agent
and manager of the mine shall provide the same.
2.2(i) The contractor shall submit to DGMS returns indicating -Name of his firm,
Registration number, Name and address of person heading the firm, Nature of
work, type of deployment of work persons, Number of work persons deployed,
how many work persons hold VT Certificate, how many work persons undergone
IME and type of medical coverage given to the work persons. The return shall
be submitted quarterly (by 10th of April, July, October and January) for
contracts of more than one year. However, for contracts of less than one year,
returns shall be submitted monthly.
2.3 Employees Responsibilities
2.3(a) An employee must, while at work, take reasonable care for the health and
safety of people who are at the employee's place of work and who may be
affected by the employee's act or omissions at work.
2.3 (b) An employee must, while at work, co-operate with his or her employer or other
persons so far as is necessary to enable compliance with any requirement under
the act or the regulations that is imposed in the interest of health, safety and
welfare of the employee or any other person.

3.0 Safety issues in mines in un-organised sector

3.2 In case of stone quarried on hillocks, whole of the hillock should be given out as
a single lease so that necessary development could be done from top-
downwards after making approach road to reach to top of the hillock before
starting extraction of stone. A condition to this effect may be incorporated
before granting such leases.
3.3 In the lease document, reference should be made to the Mines Act and the
Rules and Regulations made there under for compliance. The DGMS may
prepare, in consultation with Ministry of Mines a model document for grant of
leases by the state governments so that the conditions of leases are such that
there is a uniformity and compliance with central laws.
3.4 A copy of the lease document should be sent to the DGMS and lessees explicitly
asked to send notice of opening of mine to DGMS in accordance to the
Provisions of the Mines Act.

3.5 The Conference has noted that there have been instances in some States where
leases have been granted in close proximity of inhabited area and within 45 m.
of Railway acquired land and land acquired for National and State highways,
public works without consulting the appropriate statutory authority. The
conference recommends that the States may grant mining leases in conformity
of Central Laws.
3.6 DGMS should organize Orientation Programmes for officers of State Mines and
Geology Departments to inform them about safety laws.
3
4.0 Occupational Health surveillance and Notified Diseases

4.1 Noise mapping should be made mandatory of various workplaces in the mine
premises based on the various machines being used in concerned mines along
with personal noise dosimetry of individual workmen exposed to noise level
above 85 dB(A).
4.2 Vibration studies of various mining machineries before their introduction in
mining operation should be done as per ISO Standards.
4.3 Ergonomical assessment of all latest machines, before their introduction into
mining operation as per ISO standards. Ergonomical assessment should include:
* Assessment of work process.
* Assessment of working Aids/tools
* Assessment of working posture.
4.5 Portability tests of drinking water supplied to the mine employees, to be made
mandatory once in a year irrespective of its source, preferably after Rainy
seasons, the sample of water should be collected from the points of
consumption.
4.7(a) In addition to measurement of blood pressure, detailed cardiovascular
assessment of employees should be done. This should be include 12 leads
electrocardiogram and complete lipid profile.
4.7(b) Detailed neurological examinations including testing of all major superficial and
deep reflexes and assessment of peripheral circulation to diagnose vibrational
syndromes.
4.7(c) In addition to routine urine, fasting and post-prandial blood sugar should be
included for early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
4.7(d) Serum Urea Creatinine should be included for assessment of Renal function.
4.8 Special tests should be included in the PME for employees exposed to specific
health hazard:
4.8(a) For employees exposed to manganese, special emphasis should be given to
behavioural and neurological disturbances such as speech defect, tremor,
impairment of equilibrium, adiadochokinesia H2S and emotional changes.
4.8(b) For persons exposed to lead, PME should include blood lead analysis and delta
aminolevulinic acid in urine, at least once in a year.
4.8(c) Employees engaged in food handling and preparation and handling of stemming
material activities should undergo routine stool examination once in a every six
months and sputum for AFB and chest radiograph once in a year.
4.8(d) Employees engaged in driving/HEMM operation jobs should undergo eye
refraction test at least once in a year.
4.8(e) Employees exposed to ionizing radiation should undergo blood count at least
once in a year.
4.9(a) All other types of Pneumoconiosis excluding Coal workers pneumoconiosis,
silicosis and asbestosis. This include Siderosis & Berilllyosis
4.10 For smaller mines where PME facilities are not existing, medical examinations
can be done through other competent agencies.

4
5.0 Mechanisation with view to phase out manual loading etc.
5.1 Keeping in view the objective of phasing out manual loading, all COAL
companies shall identify appropriate technology suitable for the prevailing geo-
mining conditions and introduce the same in such a manner so as to phase out
manual loading operation completely within a period of five years in COAL
seams with gradient of 1 in 5 or less, within a period of seven years where
gradient steeper than 1 in 5.
5.2 While formulating the strategies for face mechanization in underground
workings, it shall be ensured that back facilities like COAL evacuation, support
system, ventilation arrangements etc. are compatible with face mechanization.
5.3 The scheme of face mechanization shall be based on proper scientific
investigation. The scheme shall also include arrangements for monitoring
strata behaviour and environmental conditions.
5.4 Possibility of deployment of multi-skilled miners in the face shall be explored to
reduce the exposure at hazardous areas without affecting employment.
5.5 Suitable training for efficient and safe operation of machinery shall be imparted
to all concerned.
5.6 While planning for face mechanization, due considerations shall be given for
long term sustainability of the technology.

6.0 Reduction from risk from roof and sides falls in coal mines
6.1 In every Coal mining company, STRATA CONTROL CELL shall be established at
corporate and area levels within a period of one year, to assist mine managers,
for formulation of Systematic Support Rules, monitoring strata control measure
in a scientific way to ensure efficacy of support system and for
procurement/supply of quality supporting materials. Such cell shall be manned
by adequate number of technical personnel headed by a senior official not
below the rank of General Manager at Corporate level and Dy. General Manager
at Area level.
6.2 Roof bolting shall be used as a primary means of support for freshly exposed
roof in development as well as depillaring districts. For the roof category Poor,
having value of RMR of 40 or less, or where there is excessive seepage of water
from the roof strata, roof bolts exclusively with resin capsules shall be used to
ensure adequate & immediate reinforcement of the strata.
6.5 To ensure proper drilling for roof bolting in all types of roof strata, suitable fit-
for-use roof bolting machines shall be introduced in all mines within a period of
one year. Such machines shall be capable of being operated from a distance or
be provided with suitable canopy to protect the supporting personnel during
drilling or bolting operations.
6.6 Risk assessment exercise shall be carried out in the mines for assessing for risk
from the hazards of roof and sides falls and identifying the control mechanism
with specific responsibility for implementation. This exercise shall be reviewed at
regular intervals not exceeding a year.
6.7 Each company shall take steps to impart structured training to officers,
supervisors and support personnel on roof bolting.

5
8.0 Below ground communication and tracking system

8.2 Mining companies in collaboration with research institutions/equipment

manufacturers shall initiate and fund for, suitable research initiatives for
establishment of appropriate communication system for below ground mines
including to locate the trapped miners.
8.3 Mine management in collaboration with equipment manufacturers shall evolve a
system of proximity warning device in HEMM and initiate measures for its
implementation.

9.0 Safety Management system” Strategies for implementation and path

forward.

9.1 Every mine should employ a sound risk analysis process, should conduct a risk
assessment, and should develop a safety management plan to address the
significant hazards identified by the analysis / assessment.
9.2 The managements of every mining company should adopt the process of safety
management system and commit itself for proper formulation and
implementation of the same in totality. Necessary resources should be allocated
for implementation of the control measures identified by the risk assessment
process.
9.3 Necessary training of all employees of Mining Companies should be organized
with the help of experts, both national and international, for optimal adoption of
safety management system.

10.0 Implementation of ILO convention No. 176 in Mines

10.0 The committee decided that a separate discussion be held by the Govt. of India
in a tripartite forum to deliberate on the implications arising out of ILO
Convention No. 176.

6
COMMITTEE ‘B’

Small Scale Mining

(1) The concerned authority in State Government may grant prospecting

lease/mining lease/ mining right after ascertaining technical feasibility of mineral
extraction in pursuance with provisions of the mining law, so that the lessee can
make medium to long-term plan for investment in infrastructure and work the
mines in a safe and scientific manner. While conduct of mining operations, it
should be ensured that the Central Laws, including the Mines Act are complied
with.
(2) The State Governments may explore the feasibility of demarcation of mining
zones to avoid problems of growing habitation encroaching into the mining area,
thereby creating unsafe and unhealthy conditions. However, the State
Government may take efforts to relocate the habitation already existing near
mining zones.
(3) The lease granting authority of State Government may assign a unique
identification number, which will serve as a common reference for all central and
state authorities responsible for administration of central and state laws.

The details of lease may be displayed in a board of permanent nature in a

prominent place in the lease hold are showing following:
a. Name of lessee:
b. Lease number:
c. Period of lease:
d. Unique identification number:
(4) The lease granting authority of State Government may insert a clause in the
lease document requiring the lessee to submit a notice of (i) commencement of
any mining operation, and (ii) appointment of a manager, prescribed under the
Mines Act, 1952 and Rules and Regulations framed there under.
(5) The concerned authorities of State Government may be requested to explore the
possibility of introducing a course in Mining at Industrial Training Institutes in
consultation with DGMS to augment the requirement of Mining Mates.
(6) Orientation Programmes may be organized for officers of State Mine and Geology
Departments on OSH Laws.
(7) Organized mines of public and private sector may consider extending their
facilities in Vocational Training, Occupational Health Surveillance and other Safety
Awareness Programmes for workers engaged in small scale mining sector.
(8) As a promotional initiative, social dialogue and deliberations at appropriate level
may be initiated to facilitate formation of Cooperative Society/Mine Owners
Association to tackle issues of resource and logistics management essential for
safe and healthy mining.
(9) The Conference appreciates the efforts made by Ministry of Labour &
Employment and Directorate General of Mines Safety for encouraging and
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 adopting innovative means to create awareness about OSH issues and improving
compliance in small scale mining sector with public private interventions. It is
recommended to continue with such initiatives vigorously and in enhanced
manner.
(10) The concerned authorities may explore possibilities of setting up of Mine Workers
Welfare Boards for minerals like sandstone, marble and granite.

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COMMITTEE ‘C’
Safety, Health and Welfare of Contractual Workers.

(1) The recommendations made in the 10th conference on Safety in Mines regarding
safety, health and welfare of contractor’s workers shall be complied within two
years. Owner, Agent and Manager shall be responsible for ensuring compliance
at their respective mines.
(2) There shall be provisions for modifications in Notice Inviting Tenders (NITs) to
fulfill the requirement of statute/circulars issued by DGMS from time to time
subsequent to the finalization of NITs also.
(3) The contractor shall not employ or terminate his worker without the knowledge
of the mine management.
(4) Payment to contractor’s workers including leave with wages shall be made
through bank only.
(5) In case of non-routine type of work in the mine a Work-Permit system, outlining
the precautions to be adopted, SOPs, supervision, persons responsible for the job
etc., shall be adopted.
(6) Each company shall frame a safety, health and welfare policy for their
contractor’s workers keeping in view the requirement of Mines Act and Rules &
Regulations made there-under. The details of the policy shall be included in the
tender document which will be a binding clause for the contractor.
(7) Each mining company shall extend all benefits including medical facilities and
payment of wages, to contractor’s workers receiving injury whilst on duty.
Owner, Agent and Manager shall be responsible for ensuring compliance at their
respective mines.
(8) Medical facilities shall be extended to contractor workers.
(9) Central Government should take steps against non-compliance of the
recommendations of the National Safety Conferences.

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COMMITTEE ‘D’
Surface and Underground Transportation Machinery:

(A) MACHINERY FOR SURFACE OR OPENCAST OPERATIONS

(a) Mine Planning & Design

The provisions of requirements of HEMMs and their installations, operations,
maintenance and training shall be included in the project at planning stage.
(b) Safety Features in HEMMs
(i) Audio-Visual Alarm
 The sound level of AVA should be at least 5 to 20% higher than the ambient noise
level; and
 The audio frequency and its amplitude band should be increasing and uniquely heard
to keep persons alert in the blind zone during reversal.
 AVA should be of IP 67 compliance.
(ii) Anti-Skid and Tail-End Protection System
The provision of tail end protection, bumper extension or any other device shall be
provided in dumpers/tippers to prevent collision both head on and head to tail
conditions.

(iii) GPS-GSM Based Navigation System

The GPM-GSM based vehicle navigation system shall be used in large mines in a
phased manner.

(c) Risk Control and Management

Risk Assessment and Control of Risks should be conducted by the mine management
quarterly and annually.
(d) Skill Development and Training
General Skill Development programme should be undertaken for training of operators
and all other associated staffs using state of the art technique including simulation
and 3D Virtual Reality system.
(e) Protection against Fatigue
(i) Long or Extended Hours of driving beyond 8 continuous hours with a rest interval of
half an hour after four hours of continuous operation, shall not be permitted, for
which biometric system of check-in & check-out system of attendance associated with
suitable software shall be introduced in the mine.
(ii) Additional warning system for operator’s fatigue should be provided in the machine.
(iii) Operator’s Seat in the Vehicle/HEMMs should be ergonomically designed to have
adequate comforts while driving continuously.

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(B) TRANSPORTATION MACHINERYIN UNDERGROUND:-

(a) All steam winders should be replaced with electric winders in phased manner within a
period of five years.
OR
Alternate access to the mine in the form of Inclines or Shafts may be considered and
implemented within the same period.

(b) Safety Features in Winding

Detail survey of all winding installation completed 20 years shall be carried out by
committee of experts and its recommendations shall be implemented.

(c) Man-Riding System

DGMS should initiate necessary steps to frame suitable standard for man riding system
within a period of 18 months through an expert committee.

(d) Use of Diesel Equipment belowground in Coal Mines

An expert committee may be appointed to examine and frame standards and safety
provisions for diesel equipment in belowground both coal and non-coal mines.

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