What must be done when abandoned mines or abandoned parts of an active underground mine are penetrated by auger drilling?

What must be done when abandoned mines or abandoned parts of an active underground mine are penetrated by auger drilling?

• A. The machinery shall be stopped and tests shall be made at the collar of the hole for explosive gases and oxygen deficiency by a competent person
• B. The drill bit must be replaced
• C. Continue drilling but with reduced speed
• D. Ventilate the area for 5 minutes

Answer: (A)

When auger drilling enters abandoned underground spaces, the immediate risk is hazardous gases and possible oxygen deficiency. The correct approach is to stop the machinery and have a competent person perform atmospheric tests at the hole collar for explosive gases and oxygen deficiency before continuing. Abandoned workings can harbor methane, other flammable gases, or low oxygen, and testing first ensures you don’t ignite or suffocate in a newly opened opening. If gas levels are found unsafe, ventilation and other controls must be used and tests repeated to confirm conditions are safe. The other options don’t address detecting and confirming a safe atmosphere, which is the critical first step.

When auger drilling enters abandoned underground spaces, the immediate risk is hazardous gases and possible oxygen deficiency. The correct approach is to stop the machinery and have a competent person perform atmospheric tests at the hole collar for explosive gases and oxygen deficiency before continuing. Abandoned workings can harbor methane, other flammable gases, or low oxygen, and testing first ensures you don’t ignite or suffocate in a newly opened opening. If gas levels are found unsafe, ventilation and other controls must be used and tests repeated to confirm conditions are safe. The other options don’t address detecting and confirming a safe atmosphere, which is the critical first step.