The mining industry and safety have not always gone hand in hand. In fact, mining has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous professions. A large part of this reputation is due to the potential for fires to break out in both mines and on the vehicles working within them. Luckily, the advent of Mining Vehicle Fire Suppression in Mason City IA has helped to ensure worker’s safety more than ever before. Here are some interesting facts about mining and its safety factors to read before going back to work.
Kids In America
As late as 1906 in America, children worked in mines, some as young as 12. Needless to say, injuries were quite common, including crushed limbs and even death.
Til Death Do We Part
The deadliest year in the history of mining was 1907. Over 3000 fatalities were reported to have happened. The state of West Virginia also saw the worst explosion in mining history that same year. This explosion claimed the lives of nearly 350 people. Fast-forward to 2016 where only 8 deaths were reported as occurring. A large part of this is the direct result of Mining Vehicle Fire Suppression in Mason City IA.
Miners, Not Minors
In 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act was passed by Congress. This Act forbade the use of workers who were under the age of 18 in any mining activities.
More Legislation
The most recent legislation regarding mining was passed in 2006. This was an extension of the MINE Act which had previously passed in 1977. Known as the MINER Act, it required mining companies to have emergency response plans in place and also required them to immediately report any accidents occurring on the mining site. It also increased the civil penalties able to be enacted upon any company found to be disregarding these laws.
Because of these acts, and also due to the work of mining vehicle fire safety companies such as website, the safety of the mining industry has increased exponentially. Not only has there been a dramatic decrease in worker accidents and fatalities, but there has also been an increase in worker happiness and willingness to stay long-term on the job.
