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Explore the Special Occupational Safety Document for Coal Mining: Protecting the health and safety of workers in the coal industry. Learn about the necessary preventive measures, procedures, and guidelines to minimize accident risks and protect the environment during the coal mining process.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN THE COAL MINING INDUSTRY

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents in Coal Mines

The coal mining industry, while providing essential energy to many countries worldwide, also carries serious risks and accidents. Occupational accidents in coal mines not only cause losses of life and property but also spread concern and pain to the community and the families of the affected workers.

Lack of Safety in the Mining Process: Coal mines often face safety challenges due to the harsh working environment. The use of heavy machinery, hazardous chemicals, and constant work pressure can lead to serious incidents such as tunnel collapses, fires, explosions, or poisoning from toxic gases.
Toxic Methane and Carbon Monoxide Gases: One of the biggest risks in the work environment for coal miners is the presence of methane and carbon monoxide gases. Explosions and fires caused by the ignition of methane gas have caused many disasters in the history of the coal mining industry.
Engine and Machinery Accidents: The use of equipment, machinery, and vehicles in the hazardous coal mining environment can lead to serious accidents such as collisions, rollovers, or damage from improper use or inadequately maintained equipment.
Health and Occupational Safety Issues: A lack of safety measures and easy control can lead to health and occupational safety problems for those working in the coal mine environment, including respiratory diseases, black lung disease, and physical injuries from occupational accidents.
Emissions and Environmental Impact: In addition to the direct risks to workers, coal mining also causes undesirable effects on the surrounding environment, including air and water pollution, and problems with surface water and land.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN COAL MINING

I. Occupational Safety and Health for Workers Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

1. Characteristics of the Work of Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

The construction of infrastructure for coal mining is a complex process that requires great care and high expertise. First, the construction of access roads is a crucial step to connect mining areas with processing and transportation facilities. The roads need to be designed to ensure the safe and efficient transport of coal.

Water and electrical systems are also indispensable elements in the coal mining process. The water system must be built to supply water for mining and processing activities, as well as to control dust and minimize environmental impact. The electrical system must be designed to provide the necessary power for equipment and machinery during the coal mining and processing process.

In addition, the construction of a coal processing plant is an important part of this procedure. This plant will be responsible for processing coal from the excavation process until the final product is created. This process may include stages such as crushing, washing, and classifying coal to produce a final product of high quality that meets safety and environmental standards.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during the Construction of Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

During the construction of access roads, water and electrical systems, coal processing plants, and other facilities related to coal mining, many types of occupational accidents can occur. Common accidents include the risk of occupational accidents related to machinery and equipment, including collisions, crushing, or getting caught in machinery.

In addition, transportation-related accidents are also a major risk, especially in the construction of access roads. The risk of falling from high areas, collisions with moving vehicles, and a lack of safety when working on highways are issues that need attention.

During the construction and operation of coal processing plants, risks related to chemicals, electricity, and technological processes can cause serious accidents. These are high-risk work environments for fires, explosions, and unwanted chemical reactions.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

There are many causes of occupational accidents when constructing access roads, water and electrical systems, coal processing plants, and other facilities in coal mining. One of the common causes is a lack of understanding and training in occupational safety. Workers are not adequately trained on how to use safety equipment and do not have a clear understanding of safety procedures at work.

An unsafe working environment is also a major cause. Working in harsh weather conditions, confined spaces, or on high-rise structures can increase the risk of occupational accidents.

A lack of safety management also contributes to causing occupational accidents. The lack of supervision, control, and compliance with safety regulations creates conditions for dangerous situations to occur without being prevented in time.

Finally, the use of unsafe equipment and machinery is also a significant cause. Old, damaged, or improperly maintained equipment can cause unwanted accidents.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents when Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

To minimize the risk of occupational accidents when constructing access roads, water and electrical systems, coal processing plants, and other facilities related to coal mining, applying preventive measures is very important. First, occupational safety training plays a key role. Workers need to be fully trained on safety procedures and the use of personal protective equipment.

Another important preventive measure is establishing and adhering to safe work procedures. The project needs to have specific safety plans, including equipment inspection and maintenance, risk management, and providing guidance on performing work safely.

Improving the work environment also plays an important role in reducing occupational accidents. Maintaining cleanliness, servicing work areas, and minimizing clutter can help prevent accidents due to slips or falls.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations when Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

In the construction of access roads, water and electrical systems, coal processing plants, and other facilities for coal mining, occupational safety regulations are extremely important to ensure the safety of all employees and workers involved in these activities.

One of the main regulations is training and coaching in occupational safety. All employees must be trained on the potential risks they may encounter and how to prevent them, as well as on how to use personal protective equipment effectively.

In addition, establishing and implementing safety procedures is an indispensable part. This includes periodic equipment inspection and maintenance, risk management and minimization, as well as providing clear and complete guidance on performing work safely.

At the same time, compliance with the safety regulations and procedures of both the industry and local laws is also an important part. This includes implementing environmental safety measures and protecting the health of both employees and the surrounding environment.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accident Situations when Constructing Access Roads, Water and Electrical Systems, Coal Processing Plants, and Other Facilities Necessary for Coal Mining

During the construction of access roads, water and electrical systems, coal processing plants, and other facilities for coal mining, handling emergency occupational accident situations is a crucial and necessary part that must be done quickly and effectively.

First, when an accident occurs, ensuring the safety of all employees and workers is the top priority. The rescue and evacuation plan must be activated immediately to ensure that everyone is moved out of the dangerous area as safely as possible.

Next, providing advanced first aid is very important. Trained personnel must apply first aid skills to provide treatment to the injured quickly and accurately.

After that, it is necessary to immediately report to management and the relevant authorities about the accident and implement measures to rectify the cause of the accident to prevent recurrence.

II. Occupational Safety and Health for Employees in Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

1. Characteristics of Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

Open-pit mining, longwall mining, and retreat mining are two common methods used to extract coal from deep underground seams. In longwall mining, a long wall of coal is excavated parallel to the coal seam, and then it is pushed forward as mining progresses.

This method often uses automated machinery systems to remove coal and maintain safety for workers. Meanwhile, retreat mining is a reverse mining process in which coal is extracted from a previously placed coal pillar, creating an empty space and simultaneously putting pressure on the surrounding coal pillars.

Both methods pose significant challenges in terms of safety and environmental protection, especially concerning the control of rock subsidence and the protection of groundwater resources.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

During open-pit mining, longwall mining, and retreat mining, occupational accidents can occur for many different reasons. One of the biggest risks is rock subsidence, which can lead to danger for workers and machinery.

In addition, accidents related to the power supply system, gas supply, or other technical issues are also potential causes. Besides, exposure to toxic chemicals during the mining process also increases the health risk for workers.

Strong safety measures must be implemented, including specialized training, use of personal protective equipment, and strict adherence to safety regulations to minimize the risk of accidents and protect the health of employees.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents in Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

There are many causes of occupational accidents in open-pit mining, longwall mining, or retreat mining. One of the main causes is the instability of the working environment, especially in the deep underground rock environment. Rock subsidence can occur suddenly, posing a danger to workers and equipment.

In addition, the use of complex machinery in the mining environment also increases the risk of accidents, from collisions and falling heavy objects to electrical and gas incidents. Inattention and lack of proper focus on the part of workers are also important contributing factors to occupational accidents.

This is especially true when working in a mine environment that requires high concentration and strict adherence to safety rules. To minimize the risk, training and a firm grasp of occupational safety knowledge are very important in the mining industry.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents in Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

To minimize the risk of occupational accidents in open-pit mining, longwall mining, or retreat mining, a series of effective preventive measures should be applied. First, ensuring strict adherence to occupational safety rules is extremely important. This includes providing adequate training for all workers on occupational safety and the use of personal protective equipment. Performing periodic inspections and maintenance on all equipment and systems is also an important measure to ensure they operate safely and efficiently.

In addition, continuously monitoring and assessing potential risks during the work process also plays an important role. This includes conducting periodic safety inspections, assessing and minimizing risks from rock subsidence, toxic chemicals, and other hazards. Finally, promoting a safe work culture by creating a work environment where everyone values and respects safety rules is the key to ensuring safety and avoiding occupational accidents in the mining industry.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations in Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

In the mining industry, occupational safety regulations play a crucial role in protecting the health and lives of workers. When performing open-pit mining, longwall mining, or retreat mining activities, occupational safety regulations must pay special attention to monitoring the work environment.

Monitoring the work environment is an important process to measure and assess environmental factors that can affect the health of workers, including gas, fine dust, and toxic chemicals. Safety regulations often require periodic monitoring of the work environment to determine the level of worker exposure to hazardous factors and to ensure that safety standards are met.

In addition to monitoring the work environment, occupational safety regulations also often recommend the use of personal protective equipment, ensuring training and guidance for workers on occupational safety, as well as emergency procedures and response plans in the event of an accident.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accident Situations in Open-Pit Mining, Longwall Mining, or Retreat Mining

Handling emergency occupational accident situations in the mining industry is a crucial part of the safety process. In the event of an occupational accident during open-pit mining, longwall mining, or retreat mining, emergency measures must be taken immediately to protect the lives and health of the workers.

In emergency situations, reporting the incident and activating the response plan is very important. Employees must be trained and informed about the procedures and response measures in case of an accident. Contacting teammates or local authorities to request assistance is also an important step.

Depending on the nature of the accident, evacuation and first aid may also be performed. This may include using safety equipment to move injured workers and providing on-site first aid for them until official medical assistance arrives.

III. Occupational Safety and Health for Employees Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

1. Characteristics of the Work of Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

Transporting coal to processing plants requires careful preparation and strict management from the mining process until the product is delivered to its destination. The characteristics of this work include ensuring safety and protecting the environment during transportation.

Transport vehicles must meet safety and environmental standards and need to be periodically maintained to avoid unexpected incidents. In addition, transportation planning must be flexible and efficient, ensuring that coal is delivered to processing plants on time and in sufficient quantity. Close cooperation between stakeholders such as transport companies, processing plants, and regulatory agencies is necessary to ensure the transportation process is as smooth and efficient as possible.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during the Process of Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

During the process of transporting coal to processing plants, various types of occupational accidents can occur that threaten the lives and health of workers. Some common risks include traffic accidents, especially in road transport activities.

Imbalance in loading, bad weather, and inattention from drivers can cause serious collisions. In addition, accidents related to loading and unloading coal on transport vehicles can also occur due to carelessness or lack of experience of the worker. Direct contact with coal can also cause health problems such as inhalation of coal dust and the risk of explosion.

To minimize these risks, training and strict adherence to occupational safety rules are necessary, along with the use of appropriate protective equipment during the transportation and handling of coal.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

Occupational accidents during the process of transporting coal to processing plants can have many different causes. One of the main causes is a lack of experience and training of the transport personnel. Drivers and workers often have to face many difficult situations on the road, from bad weather conditions to heavy traffic. A lack of experience can increase the risk of accidents.

Another cause is a lack of preparation and ineffective management. Failure to control loading, ensure safety during coal handling, or periodically maintain transport vehicles can lead to unwanted incidents.

Furthermore, human factors also play an important role in causing occupational accidents. A lack of concentration, working at excessive speeds, or using equipment improperly can create dangerous situations.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents when Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

To prevent occupational accidents when transporting coal to processing plants, it is very important to implement safety measures. First of all, it is necessary to ensure that all relevant employees are fully trained on safety procedures and accident prevention measures. This includes the use of appropriate personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves.

Second, the periodic inspection and maintenance of transport vehicles is important to ensure they operate stably and safely. This includes checking the braking system, lighting, and other safety equipment before each trip.

Furthermore, smart transportation planning also plays an important role. The integrity of the load and careful consideration of the route and weather conditions will help to minimize the risk of accidents.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations when Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

Occupational safety regulations during the process of transporting coal to processing plants are an important part of ensuring a safe working environment for all relevant employees. These regulations often include ensuring that all employees are fully trained on safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and gloves.

In addition, safety regulations may also include the periodic inspection and maintenance of transport vehicles, ensuring they are operating correctly and safely. This may include checking the braking system, lighting, and other safety equipment before each trip.

Furthermore, the regulations also often include establishing specific procedures for loading and unloading coal from transport vehicles and into processing plants, ensuring that the process is carried out safely and efficiently.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accident Situations when Transporting Coal to Processing Plants

During the transportation of coal to processing plants, handling emergency occupational accident situations is a crucial part of the occupational safety process. When an accident occurs, a quick and effective response is necessary to minimize losses and protect the lives of workers. First, implementing a pre-existing response plan is key. Each plant must have an occupational accident response plan, including safety measures as well as evacuation and rescue plans.

In addition, training coal transport employees on how to respond to emergency situations is important. Employees need to be trained to recognize, report, and handle accidents quickly and effectively. At the same time, there needs to be close cooperation between transport employees, plant management, and the relevant authorities to ensure that everyone knows how to respond to an emergency situation.

IV. Occupational Safety and Health for Employees Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

1. Characteristics of the Work of Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

The characteristics of the process of treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal are an important part of the energy industry. In this process, coal is treated to remove impurities such as sulfur, ash, and other pollutants, while improving the uniformity and quality of the fuel.

One of the main methods for removing impurities is the purification process, in which coal is processed through steps such as crushing, washing, and using chemicals to remove unwanted impurities. In addition, purification technology can also use physical methods such as screening and classification to separate high-quality from lower-quality material.

Enhancing the quality of coal can also include the process of improving its fuel properties, for example, by increasing the carbon ratio and reducing the sulfur content. Modern technology also allows for the creation of coal products with higher uniformity and quality through the control of the production process and the use of advanced classification techniques.

2. Types of Occupational Accidents during the Process of Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

During the process of treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal, many types of occupational accidents can occur. One of the common accidents is issues related to occupational safety in a difficult and hazardous work environment.

A common type of accident is a chemical accident, when the chemicals used in the treatment process can cause incidents or have unintended effects on employees. Chemical incidents can lead to explosions, fires, or even be hazardous to the health of employees.

In addition, accidents related to machinery and equipment are also a major concern. The use of heavy and complex equipment in the coal treatment process can lead to accidents when proper safety procedures are not followed or when the equipment experiences a technical failure.

Furthermore, physical accidents are also a risk, including falls from height, impacts, or being compressed during the operation and maintenance of equipment.

3. Causes of Occupational Accidents when Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

There are many causes of occupational accidents when treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal. One of the main causes is a deficiency in complying with occupational safety procedures and guidelines on how to use equipment and materials in the work environment.

Another cause is technical failure, when the equipment and machinery used in the coal treatment process may experience sudden technical faults. Inadequate equipment maintenance can also lead to occupational safety issues.

In addition, human factors also play an important role in causing accidents. Working in a toxic and difficult environment can lead to a loss of concentration and reduce the reaction ability of employees, leading to an increased risk of accidents.

Furthermore, the use of chemicals in the coal treatment process can also cause accidents if the proper procedures and safety measures for working with them are not followed.

4. Preventive Measures for Occupational Accidents when Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

To prevent occupational accidents when treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal, safety measures must be applied seriously and comprehensively. First of all, training employees on occupational safety procedures and how to use equipment is an important starting point. Employees need to be trained on how to recognize and handle dangerous situations, as well as how to perform first aid measures when necessary.

Performing periodic inspections and maintenance on equipment and machinery is also an important measure to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. In addition, establishing and adhering to safe work procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment such as respiratory masks, protective gloves, and chemical-resistant clothing, is also an indispensable part of the coal treatment process.

Furthermore, monitoring and assessing potential risks should also be carried out regularly and thoroughly. By identifying and minimizing these risks from the outset, the company can reduce the risk of occupational accidents and ensure a safe working environment for all employees.

5. Occupational Safety Regulations when Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

Occupational safety regulations when treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal are an important part of ensuring a safe and compliant working environment. First, employees must be fully trained on safety procedures and occupational accident prevention measures. This includes instruction on how to use safety equipment such as respiratory masks, chemical-resistant clothing, and protective gloves.

The regulations also need to specify the safe use and storage of chemicals. Employees need to be trained on how to recognize and handle various types of chemicals, as well as how to use protective measures when in contact with them. Compliance with waste treatment and disposal regulations is also an important factor in ensuring a safe working environment.

In addition, the regulations also need to address the periodic inspection and maintenance of equipment to ensure they are operating correctly and safely. Emergency measures should also be identified and instructed to employees in the event of an unexpected incident.

6. Handling Emergency Occupational Accident Situations when Processing to Remove Impurities and Enhance the Quality of Coal

Handling an emergency occupational accident situation when treating to remove impurities and enhance the quality of coal requires quickness and proactivity from both employees and management. In the event of an accident, ensuring the safety of everyone is the top priority.

When handling an accident, employees should first protect themselves by getting out of the dangerous situation if possible. Then, they need to activate the warning system and report the incident to management and the remaining colleagues.

Management needs to have a clear accident response plan in place and all employees should be pre-trained on how to implement rescue measures. Implementing first aid measures, calling for an ambulance, and providing first aid to the victim are the first steps that need to be taken immediately.

In addition, investigating the cause of the accident is important to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. Learning from the experience of an accident is an indispensable part of improving work processes and enhancing the level of safety in the work environment.