Project Profile
ABS Group Develops Risk, Preparedness and Readiness Models for Mining Industry
ABS Group developed a series of risk, preparedness and readiness models to help the mining industry prevent and respond to major mine disasters. To read the full profile in Spanish, a translation is available.
Project Objectives
#1
Develop a risk assessment model and methodology for mine operators
#2
Develop an emergency response assessment model and methodology for Responsible Persons at active mining operations
#3
Develop a readiness assessment model and methodology for mine rescue teams
Project Overview
Mining is an inherently risky business. Over the years, major mine disasters have resulted in the deaths and injuries of thousands of miners in the US. These disasters also have resulted in innovations in approaches to mine design, operations and the training of miners and mine rescue teams. The US Congress responded to these disasters with new laws designed to create mandatory safety and health standards as a means to eliminate fatal accidents; to reduce the frequency and severity of nonfatal accidents; to minimize health hazards; and to promote improved safety and health conditions in the nation's mines.
Following a mine emergency preparedness and response Holistic Gap Analysis in 2012, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) identified the need for the development of risk and readiness assessment models for MSHA and the mining industry. MSHA's objective was to evolve existing theoretical concepts for risk and readiness assessment into simplified tools that can be applied by the mining industry for use at operational levels. In 2012, MSHA hired ABS Group to develop self-assessment models to help meet this objective.
Client Needs
- Need to assess and prevent major risks associated with major mine disasters
- Examine the mine rescue system for weakness
- Asess the readiness of Mine Rescue Teams and Responsible Persons to respond to a mine emergency