Spontaneous Coal Combustion, Direct and Indirect Impact on Mining in China: A Prospective Review and Proposal of a Five-Level Comprehensive Mine Safety Management Structure (5L-CMSMS) Coupled with Hazard Zoning and Barrier Systems

Abstract

ABSTRACT To prevent, predict, control, and reduce the catastrophe caused by spontaneous coal combustion (SCC), and the subsequent direct and indirect adverse impact on the environment and health, this review proposed a five-level comprehensive mine safety management structure (5 L-CMSMS) to augment the already existing technological interventions. The 5 L-CMSMS features a 3-Phase Model and a continuous review of safety measure/accident prevention program handled at the national level and which can be replicated by all the five levels (i.e. national, provincial, city, district, and the mine). Additionally, hazard zoning and barrier systems to augment the 5 L-CMSMS and the other advanced technology currently being employed to prevent most mine disasters are also proposed. With all incidents and accidents happening principally in the mines, the implementation of a constructive monitoring and supervision team at the facility level by using safety committees, safety officers, and unit heads can reduce the incidents and accidents drastically. With regular and proper safety training, assessment and evaluation, and awareness creation the coal mine safety risk management which is a systematic project and an interconnected organic whole, involving multiple subjects such as enterprise management, enterprise employees, government regulators, and the external environment can be salvaged.