A survey of West Virginia mines shows four percent of
underground equipment have detectors that automatically shuts down mobile
machinery when people get too close.
The state Office of Miners' Health, Safety
and Training conducted the survey in August of 1,800 continuous mining
machines, shuttle cars, roof bolters, scoops and other mobile equipment.
It found that 74 pieces of the
equipment had proximity detection systems that can prevent miners from being
crushed or pinned.
State Mine Safety Director Eugene White
says he expects the number to increase as mine operators anticipate a federal
rule requiring such proximity devices to be implemented.
The survey also says blind-spot cameras
have been installed on 86 pieces of underground equipment.
