UNDERGROUND

SAFETY AWARENESS

TRAINING PROGRAM

March 2007

2 9/6/2007

ORICA UNDERGROUND SAFETY AWARENESS TRAINING PROGRAM

Scope This program is aimed at all personnel employed with Orica. who are required to visit or work at underground operations. The program is designed to impart awareness to some of the most important general procedures essential to safely working in underground operations. This program is not intended to give detailed instructions in any particular aspect of working in underground mines or civil engineering projects (refer to specific mine safety procedures, work practices and training manuals for detailed information). This program does not include all information relevant to working in underground coal mines. Introduction The relative safety statistics for underground versus surface mining and construction paint the picture the world over - THE RISK OF INJURY IS HIGHER UNDERGROUND BY A FACTOR OF 2 OR MORE. Around 40% of underground accidents (including fatalities) are a consequence of rock falls. But the direct effects of rock falls are not the only concern - if detonators and primers are not well managed at the face, impact can result in consequent serious injury. Additional to potential hazards that exist on the surface are numerous concerns related to ventilation (e.g. heat stress, post-blast fumes, fires) and high background noise levels (e.g. hearing, communication). Working underground in reduced lighting introduces greater slipping and tripping hazards. In addition, there is the serious risk of a mobile equipment operator not seeing you and striking you, in what are in most situations fairly tight spaces. Various recommended operating practices have been included in this program. Although all these are not hard and fast rules, they are safe effective work methods advanced by experienced personnel. Let their practical experiences be your guide and take the time to understand them. Finally, until sufficient understanding and awareness is gained for safe operating practice, everyone who is unfamiliar with the underground environment should be accompanied into underground mines or civil engineering works by an Orica or Site staff person who has the knowledge and experience to act as a guide.

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Objectives The Underground Safety Awareness Training Program is critical to your orientation into the underground working environment. The aim of this program is to increase your understanding of the underground work environment, its potential hazards, and the procedures you should follow to stay safe. Topics to be covered in the following 17 modules include: Required underground training and site induction. Required Personal Protective Equipment and its use. Ventilation and mine gases. Emergency procedures in event of underground fire. Entering and departing the mine. Access into the mine or work area and travel underground. Work around mobile equipment and bulk explosive loading equipment. Detonator safety. Blasting times, inspections of blast results, and misfire procedures.

This program requires you to complete a written questionnaire at the end of the program to demonstrate your understanding of its contents. As the program is for your benefit, no grade is to be assigned to the exam. However, partial or incorrect answers will be discussed with you, and you will be expected to revise your written answers accordingly. Procedure for Personnel Targeted by this Program Prior to visiting or working underground, personnel must have read this program and demonstrated their understanding by completing the attached questionnaire. While on Site the visitor shall remain in contact with and under the direct control of the relevant person responsible for the visit or their nominated escort. The Account Manager should be contacted prior to any visit. Time spent in traveling to a Site should include discussion of the Site’s specific conditions, aims of the visit and any other relevant background information. You should expect your guide to know relevant Statutory Regulations and local Rules - question him about them. If you have any permanent (e.g. impaired sight or hearing problems) or temporary disability (e.g. ankle sprain) which could lead to difficulties (walking long distances, climbing ladders, enduring high temperature and high humidity environments), please advise your guide. Failure to do so could not only put yourself at risk but also those accompanying you.

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Underground Safety Awareness Training Program Module 1: Underground Training and Site Induction Module 2: Mining Cycle and Stoping Module 3: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Module 4: Cap Lamp Signals Module 5: Self Rescuer Module 6: Underground Fires Module 7: Ventilation Module 8: Entering and Departing the Mine Module 9: Access into Mine or Work Area Module 10: Traveling Underground Module 11: Mobile Equipment Module 12: Bulk Explosive Loading Equipment Safety Module 13: Detonator Safety Module 14: Blasting Times Module 15: Inspecting Blast Results Module 16: Misfires Module 17: Definitions Module 1: Underground Training and Site Safety Induction

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1.1 All personnel who will be working underground must complete any required mine safety

induction training, understand local safety rules and procedures, and become familiar with the pertinent Government regulations before entering the mine.

1.2 Training required by Orica and the Site visited may include:

MSHA 32-hour Inexperienced New Miner Training, Underground Mines MSHA 8-hour Yearly Underground Refresher Training

(failure to perform refresher training will prevent you from working underground until you complete the refresher training) Site Specific Safety Induction

(You are usually issued a Site Specific MSHA Form 5000-23. Many operations now require a copy of your current Form 5000-23 issued from your 32-hour underground mines training or 8-hour refresher. Make sure you carry your current form with you to Site, or you could find yourself remaining on the surface!) Orica Underground Safety Awareness Program

1.3 Alcohol, drugs, and people under the influence are not permitted in or around mine sites.

Any prescription drugs carried onto a site should be disclosed to the Site Manager or Safety Officer.

1.4 For your comfort, use the restroom before going underground. Ask your guide or Site

Representative about specific mine rules regarding personal relief underground. 1.5 Bring sufficient snacks/meals and water to be comfortable through the shift you intend to

work. 1.6 Bring an extra set of clothes with you to Site in case you get wet or dirty underground. 1.7 Do not be surprised that many miners smoke while working underground. Smoking is

permitted in many metal and non-metal mines provided it is not done in the vicinity of explosives, flammables, or other designated non-smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted in mines classified as gassy such as all coal mines and uranium mines.

End of Module

Module 2: Mining Cycle and Stoping Mining Cycle (1) Drilling Blast hole positions are marked out on a face to define the “pattern” or “round” of holes to be drilled. In large headings, drilling is done with “jumbos” having two or three hydraulically powered rock drills mounted on a rubber-tired carrier. In small headings, hand held “jackleg” drills are used. (2) Blasting Typically, the holes in a round are primed with a timed sequence of EXEL Non-Electric Detonators inserted into cast boosters or ‘MAGNAFRAC’ cartridges. Holes are then filled with blow-loaded ANFO, pumped ‘HANDIBULK’, or ‘MAGNAFRAC’ cartridges. After the holes are loaded, the round is hooked-up and fired. (3) Scaling After blasting fumes have cleared, the miners return to wash down the freshly blasted area and wet down the muckpile. All loose rocks are knocked down by “scaling”. (4) Mucking and Ground Support Loaders and trucks remove the broken rock from the heading. After checking for misfires and installing ground support (bolts, mesh, shotcrete), the mining cycle begins again.

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Stoping In mining operations, levels (workings at a particular elevation) are established to provide access to the ore for personnel and equipment, and for exploration purposes. The slope and dimensions of levels and inclines/declines are governed by the ground conditions and the type of machinery that must use it. Between the main levels of the workings, sub-levels may be developed to improve access to the orebody.

Headframe

HoistDry Mine Office

Spiral Decline

Cage

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

Level 5

Orebody

Orebody

Shaft

ShaftStations

End of Module

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Module 3: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 3.1 This module details the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required to be worn or used

when visiting or working in underground mines and civil works projects. 3.2 Always wear or use the appropriate clothing and equipment listed below. Also check and

work in accordance to local mine rules. Avoid working on the principle of being able to borrow equipment from the underground

operator. The required equipment may not be available, and if available may not meet the necessary standard. Check with the local Account Manager as to what equipment is and is not available at the site. If equipment is borrowed from the operator, return it clean (no mud, no emulsion, etc.) and in good condition; report any malfunctions.

Clothing Loose fitting or frayed clothes present an entanglement hazard, and as such, clothing

should be well fitting and in good condition. A daily change of clothing is recommended in consideration of the hot and humid conditions frequently experienced underground. Layers of clothes can make mines with variable temperatures (i.e., hot in the blind heading, cold in the main ventilation stream) more endurable. The use of cotton coveralls is highly recommended. Poly based clothing is flammable and should not be worn. Shorts must not be worn.

In operations where mobile equipment and pedestrians share the same travelways,

consideration should be given to pedestrian visibility. Orica personnel visiting or working in underground operations should wear reflective material visible from all angles.

Check on specific requirements at the operation being worked at for additional

requirements. Some require light colored clothing (e.g. yellow or orange) and/or set amounts of reflective material to be worn.

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Equipment The following equipment is required: a) SAFETY HARD HAT - Use only helmets complying with MSHA/OSHA

standards and discard at end of the service life (Mostmanufacturers recommend annual replacement of thesuspension and hat replacement after 5 years of in-field service). Stickers with your name and the Oricalogo identify you and the company you work for toothers. Do avoid excessive use of hard hat stickers.

b) CAP LAMP and BATTERY - Check to ensure that the battery is fully charged andthat both primary and secondary bulbs are working. Also see Module 3 for cap lamp signals.

Note: Underground lighting may be used in some civil engineering projects. If this

is the case, a hand held flashlight is often used instead of a cap lamp. However, the advantage of a cap lamp is that both hands are free to use. If a flashlight is used, carry spare batteries. Hang it from your belt when not in use.

c) SELF RESCUER - Breathing Apparatus for Emergency Escape in event

of fire or explosion. Unless otherwise advised you are to carry a Self-Rescuer on your person at all times. See Module 4.

d) SAFETY BOOTS - Protective steel toes and insoles (rubber for wet

conditions). e) SAFETY GLASSES with SIDE SHIELDS

- Good condition (not scratched). Treatment with anti-fogging agent can help maintain visibility clear underhumid conditions.

f) IDENTIFICATION BRASS - Metal tag stamped with your name and the last 4

digits of your SSN or SIN. g) EAR MUFFS and/or EAR PLUGS

- Take care to avoid contamination of ear plugs from dirty hands or gloves.

h) GLOVES - Material appropriate to the task in hand. i) SAFETY BELT - Basic use is to carry lamp battery, self-rescuer, and

tools. Not for use on platforms or over open holes due

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to suffocation and internal injury hazards. j) WATCH - Adjust to mine time. In addition, the following equipment may be required: k) RESPIRATOR - For protection against dust and dangerous fumes

where required. Ensure filter cartridges offer properprotection against the hazard, such as hydrogen sulfide gas in high sulfide orebodies or ammoniavapors generated in freshly blasted and shotcretedareas.

l) SAFETY HARNESS and LANYARD

- When working in or near shafts, open holes, or offplatforms a full body safety harness and lanyard mustbe worn to prevent the risk of internal injury in theevent of a fall.

3.3 REPLACE DAMAGED CLOTHING and EQUIPMENT IMMEDIATELY. 3.4 Obey all signs indicating that you should be using particular safety equipment in

designated areas. 3.5 As a safe Orica employee, you are to make no exception to the use of the personal

protective equipment listed above. Some mines do not require their employees to wear some of the safety equipment required by Orica employees. Some mine employees do not comply with their employer’s rules, and some mines do not enforce their own rules. Do not work unsafely to “fit in” or “be cool” with the rest of the operation.

End of Module

Module 4: Basic Cap Lamp Signals 4.1 Cap lamp signals are primarily for use when voice contact is not possible but specific

directions must still be given. Know the three signals made by cap lamp movements:

SIDE to SIDE "Stop"

UP and DOWN "Go Away" or "Retreat"

CIRCULAR "Advance" or "Come Forward"

End of Module Module 5: MSA W65 Self Rescuer

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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous by-product of the burning of any carbonaceous material. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a major cause of death in underground explosions and fires. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless. Low concentrations can cause loss of physical functions, and then unconsciousness, and possibly death. The self rescuer should be used when any sign of fire underground is evident - DELAY CAN BE FATAL. The self rescuer has been designed to protect the wearer from CO concentrations up to 1.0% for at least one hour. Death is certain within a minute if present in an atmosphere with this concentration and a self rescuer is not used. The self rescuer consists of a protective carrying case containing a chemical canister with a mouth piece attached. The canister contains the operative chemicals and is covered by a fabric bag that acts as a course dust filter. The mouthpiece housing is made up of a mouthpiece with teeth lugs designed to remain in position in an unconscious person, a nose clip, an exhalation valve, and a wire mesh heat exchanger. A set of straps holds the set to the wearer’s head.

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9/6/2007

On inhalation, air is drawn

Exhalation Value

Heat Exchanger

Mouth Piece + Lugs

Course Particulate Filter Bag

Head BandNose Clamp

Chin Rest

Carbon Monoxide Catalyst (Hopcalite)

Drying Agent

Fine Particulate Filter

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through a coarse and fine particulate filter. The air then passes through a drying agent to remove water vapor and through the ‘Hopcalite’ catalyst to convert CO to CO2. The scrubbed air then passes through a heat exchanger to cool the air before entering the lungs. On exhalation, air passes through an exhalation valve then out to the atmosphere. Both the conversation of CO to CO2, and the removal of water by the drying agent are exothermic reactions that generate heat. This heat is retained by the heat exchanger during inhalation and expelled during exhalation. Be aware and remember, that the self rescuer will get very hot when used in a high concentration of CO. The mouthpiece may actually get hot enough to burn your lips - DO NOT REMOVE IT FROM YOUR MOUTH! If you do remove it, you will be overcome by CO poisoning. Remember these important things about your self rescuer: Self rescuers have a life of 15 years from date of manufacture or an in service life of 10

years and need to checked by weight every 90 days. You should check the unit bottom for the engraved manufacture date and inspection dates. Open the self rescuer over dry ground. The self rescuer can become inhibited if soaked in

water (i.e., you drop it in a water puddle while trying to get it on). Kneel down to put the self rescuer on. If you drop it in the presence of thick smoke, you may

find not it. The self rescuer will still work even if the bottom half of the outer canister does not come

off (dents in the canister can cause this to happen). Do not risk tearing the self rescuer apart in an attempt to clear the canister; wear it with the canister still attached. The intent of the self rescuer to give you the time to make an emergency escape to surface,

or if this is not possible, then to reach an underground refuge or barricade area to await rescue. When wearing a self rescuer, walk at a steady pace to the nearest place of safety, avoid running.

Self rescuers have the following limitations: One must be trained to use it properly. It provides no protection against low oxygen (19.5% O2 must be present). It provides no protection against high CO2 . It has a limited duration (approximately 1 hour). It causes a high inhalation temperature. It is not reusable

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Note: While the MSA W65 Self Rescuer is found in many mining operations, oxygen generating rather than catalytic converter style self rescuers are also common. Where such units are used, the specific operating instructions for the equipment need to be understood before going underground. A more extensive training module on the self rescuer is available as a Power Point presentation from the AMS Group in Denver (W-65 self rescuer MSHA 2002 modified). End of Module

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Module 6: Fires 6.1 Underground fires are rare, but extremely hazardous because of the effects of smoke,

fumes, heat, reduced oxygen content, and reduced visibility. 6.2 Never light a fire underground, and never store or place flammable materials around

sources of heat. 6.3 Always note the location of the fire extinguishers around the working area and on mobile

equipment. 6.4 If a fire occurs, attempt to extinguish it without endangering yourself or other people. Most fires start off small. By correctly using a fire extinguisher, small fires can be often

be put out before becoming into larger ones. However, if you are unsuccessful in extinguishing the fire, retreat to a place of safety upwind. Warn other people in the area as you retreat. Notify the relevant authority of the fire IMMEDIATELY.

6.5 Your Self Rescuer should be put on at the first sign of smoke. 6.6 Most underground mines introduce “stench gas” into the mine ventilation system to warn

personnel of fire. The “stench” may have an odor like “rotten eggs” or “pine”, or other site specific odor; be sure to know the stench warning odor before going underground.

Most mines run “stench tests” as part of their regular safety training and awareness. Stench tests may be conducted on an announced or unannounced basis. If you smell stench advise your designated guide. He should establish communication (listen on the mine phone or radio over the leaky feeder) to determine if a stench test is being conducted or an actual emergency exists. If it an emergency exists, then don your self-rescuer and evacuate the mine or go to the nearest rescue chamber according to mine policy.

6.7 Some mines use a new signaling system which involves a leaky feeder system and the

mine cap lamps. If an emergency is declared the lamp light will flicker. This system only works with the mine specific cap lamps and will not function with your personal lamp.

End of Module

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Module 7: Ventilation 7.1 Underground workings require continuous ventilation to prevent hazardous buildup of

fumes, dust, and heat. Gases can be generated from blasting, diesel exhausts, or from fires. High air velocities near fans may create dust hazards. Beware of dangerous gases when entering dead ends after firing.

7.2 Minimum ventilation requirements for working in underground mines and tunnels are

specified below. Your guide should ensure ventilation conditions conform. a) In an underground mine, the atmosphere at any work place and in any means of

access to and from the work place, shall be in a fit state for working in and passing through and shall not endanger the health or safety or any person.

b) An adequate amount of ventilation shall be constantly produced in every below

ground mine such that the workings or occupied parts of the mine are in a fit state for working in and passing through.

c) Every person before entering an enclosed or underground area shall satisfy

themselves that a ventilation flow exists, and if that area is force ventilated be satisfied that the airflow is not re-circulating.

d) No dead end openings shall be worked in a mine unless adequate auxiliary ventilation

has been provided. 7.3 No internal combustion engine other than a compression-ignition diesel engine which

uses low volatile fuel shall be used in an underground mine. Gasoline engine vehicles or gasoline engines shall not enter or be used in underground mines due to the huge levels of impurities contained in the exhaust gas (Carbon Monoxide and Nitrogen Dioxide).

Gasoline is also a far a greater hazard than diesel fuel due to its very low flash point of

5oF. Most diesel engines used underground are fitted with exhaust gas scrubbers.

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7.4 Gas Exposure

a) The air in any working place is deemed adequate if it contains not less than 19.5% volume of oxygen and it contains not more than the following amounts of impurities:

Contaminant Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Carbon Monoxide (CO) Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) Nitric Oxide (NO) Hydrogen Sulfide (H2O) Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Aldehydes (as Formaldehyde) Ammonia (NH3) Organic particulate

Threshold Limit Value (TLV-TWA) 5000 ppm 0.5 % 50 ppm 0.005 % 3 ppm 0.0003 % 25 ppm 0.0025 % 10 ppm 0.0010 % 5 ppm 0.0005 % 5 ppm 0.0005 % 25 ppm 0.0025 % 2 mg/m3

b) Physiological Effects of Carbon Monoxide (Hartman, Mutmansky, Wang, 1982) Specific Gravity: 0.9672 Physical Properties: Colorless, odorless, tasteless

Blood Saturation % COHb

Symptoms

5 - 10

First noticeable effect, loss of some cognitive function

10 - 20 Tightness across forehead, possible headache

20 - 30 Headache, throbbing in temples 30 - 40 Severe headache, weakness, dizziness,

dimness of vision, nausea and vomiting, and collapse

40 - 60 Increased likelihood of collapse and unconsciousness, coma with intermittent convulsions

60 - 70 Coma, possible death 70 - 80 Respiratory failure, death

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c) Physiological Effects of Oxides of Nitrogen (after Hartman, Mutmansky, Wang, 1982) Specific Gravity: 1.5895 Physical Properties: Red-brown color

Concentration ppm

Effect

3

Current TLV-TWA

60 Least amount causing immediate throat irritation 100 Least amount causing coughing

100 - 150 Dangerous even for short exposure 200 - 700 Rapidly fatal

d) Physiological Effects of Sulfur Dioxide (Hartman, Mutmansky, Wang, 1982) Specific Gravity: 2.2636 Physical Properties: Colorless

Concentration ppm

Effect

0.3 - 1

Detectable by taste (acidic)

3 - 5 Detectable by odor (sulfur) 20 Irritation of eyes, nose, throat 50 Pronounced irritation of eyes, throat, and lungs,

possible to breathe for several minutes 400 - 500 Immediately dangerous to life

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e) Physiological Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide (Hartman, Mutmansky, Wang, 1982) Specific Gravity: 1.1912 Physical Properties: Colorless

Concentration

Symptom

0.025 ppm

Threshold of odor (rotten egg)

0.005 - 0.010 % Slight symptoms such as eye and respiratory tract irritation after 1 hour

0.010 % Loss of odor after exposure of 15 minutes 0.02 - 0.07 % Increased eye irritation, headache, dizziness,

nausea, dryness, and pain in nose, throat, and chest 0.07 - 0.10 % Unconsciousness, cessation of respiration and

death 0.10 % Death in a few minutes

f) Physiological Effects of Carbon Dioxide (Hartman, Mutmansky, Wang, 1982) Specific Gravity: 1.5291 Physical Properties: Colorless, odorless, slight acid taste

Concentration

Symptom

0.5 %

Deeper, faster breathing

3.0 % Respiratory rate increased by 100 % 5.0 % Respiratory rate increased by 300 % 10.0 % Death

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g) Physiological Effects of Ammonia Specific Gravity: 0.5977 Physical Properties: Colorless

Concentration

Symptom

0.0025 %

Irritation to eyes, nose, and throat

0.0050 % Nasal dryness (5 minute exposure) 0.25- 0.65 % Coughing, difficult breathing, arrested respiration,

possible death. Ammonia fumes may be encountered in workings where AN based explosives have

been used and recent shotcrete application has taken place. Overtime and with repeated exposure, people can become tolerant, or “hardened”, to

ammonia fumes above the 25 ppm TLV. h) Physiological Effects of Oxygen Depletion

% O2 in Air

Effect

21 %

None - normal air

17 % Faster, deep breathing 15 % Dizziness, buzzing in ears, rapid heartbeat 13 % May lose consciousness with prolonged exposure 9 % Fainting, unconsciousness 7 % Life endangered 6 % Convulsive movements, death

7.5 Dust Exposure

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a) The air at any working place shall not contain more than the following quantities of

dust: For rock dust that contains less then 1.0% quartz (most industrial minerals): 0.2 milligrams of quartz, as respirable dust, per cubic meter of air. 5 milligrams of respirable dust per cubic meter of air. 10 milligrams of total dust per cubic meter or air. For rock dust that contains more then 1.0% quartz (most hard rock mines) the

following formula is applied:

mg respirable dust per cubic meter of air = 10.0 mg per cubic meter or air / (2% quartz) Respiratory protective devices shall be used where required. 7.6 Heat Exposure There are no MSHA requirements related to heat. Heat is covered by OSHA’s “General Duty Clause” that basically allows employees to

work in heat as long as it is managed. Some mines use a concept of “effective Temperature” to regulate heat exposure. It is a

combination of the wet bulb temperature and the volume of moving air. People build tolerance to temperature. If you work in a hot environment, you will be

more able to bear heat. Likewise, if you are not used to working in a hot environment, you are more likely to feel its effects.

7.7 Methane

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Methane gas (CH4) is explosive in the range from 5 to 15 % by volume. The specific

gravity of methane is 0.5545, so it is lighter than air and accumulates at the back. General Requirements: a) No more than 1.0% methane by volume measured 12 inches from roof, face, and rib. b) Where methane concentration is greater than 1.0% but less than 1.5%, then no work

allowed in working place, power to equipment must be turned off, and adjustments in ventilation must be made to reduce methane concentration to less than 1.0%.

c) Where methane is greater than 1.5%, then miners must be withdrawn from the area of the mine endangered by methane until the concentration is reduced to less than 1.0%.

End of Module

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Module 8: Entering and Departing the Mine Personal Tag and Tag Board 8.1 In most underground operations a ‘tag’ or ‘brass’ board is used to identify persons

working underground. 8.2 Before going underground, advise relevant Site staff of where you are intending to travel. 8.3 Ensure you have placed your identification ‘brass’ on the ‘IN’ section of the appropriate

‘tag board’. Your identification ‘brass’ should be stamped with your name and the last 4 digits of your SSN or SIN. Many operations may also provide, ‘visitor brass’ to be used alone or in conjunction with your brass. Your brass should be firmly attached to your mine belt; fixed is best, but a stout ring is OK also. Your brass MUST be on your body at all times while underground.

8.4 When leaving the underground workings, ensure your identification ‘tag’ is removed

from the ‘brass’ board, or moved to the ‘OUT’ section of the board. 8.5 Notify the Site Manager, or designated representative, when leaving the site. End of Module

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Module 9: Access into Mine or Work Area 9.1 Shaft Access: Shaft access is usually via a designated conveyance. A “cage” is hoisted

up and down the shaft of operating mines. A ‘galloway’ is a work platform used in shaft sinking operations.

a) Never lean into the shaft, or allow any equipment or parts of your body to protrude

into the shaft. This will avoid injuries from falling objects or the cage, which can approach quickly and silently.

b) When traveling in the cage, wear safety glasses, stand quietly, and do not allow any

equipment or parts of your body to protrude outside the cage. c) Never smoke while traveling in the cage, or in other designated ‘No Smoking’ areas. d) Do not attempt to enter or leave the cage while it is moving. Entry and exit should

only be made at defined stations, and under the direction of the Cage Tender or person in control of the cage.

e) Do not use the ‘shaft bells’ unless trained and authorized. However, do observe the

code of signals and understand how to use them to call for the cage if needed for an emergency.

f) MSHA only allows hand tools on the cage with personnel. Any large tools or

equipment carried in the cage must be authorized. Never ride in a cage loaded with such equipment.

g) Do not travel in the cage if loaded with explosives. 9.2 Ladder ways: Travel in shafts, up raises, or down winzes may require the use of ladder

ways. a) If anyone is working in or around a ladder way, notify them of your intention before

beginning to climb up or down.

a) Before using ladders, check their condition, including supports and stability, and beware of any loose rocks resting on bearers or platforms.

b) If climbing with another person, either travel close together or wait until the other

person is clear of the ladders before commencing to climb. This will minimize the risk of injury if loose rocks are dislodged and fall down the ladder way.

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9.3 Adit or Decline Access: Decline usually involves transport in rubber tired ‘Personnel Carriers’, but rail-mounted ‘Man Cars’ may sometimes be used.

a) Do not attempt to enter or leave a vehicle while it is moving. Entry and exit should

only be made after alerting the driver, and with the driver’s permission. b) Remain seated at all times under the protective canopy and wearing a seat belt (if

fitted). Ride only in an approved seating compartment. Do not ride the bumper, motor cover, fender, etc.

c) Never smoke while traveling in personnel carriers or man cars. d) When traveling in a vehicle fitted with glass windows, turn your cap lamp off to

avoid distracting the driver. e) Do not drive any vehicle without authorization and instruction. f) Do not ride in loader buckets. 9.4 STEP DOWN FROM EQUIPMENT USING THREE POINT HOLD - NEVER JUMP. End of Module

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Module 10: Traveling Underground 10.1 Orica personnel may travel underground in the company of a suitably experienced site

representative. 10.2 Never travel underground unguided unless you have necessary site specific mine training

and written authorization by Mine Management. If you are authorized to travel unguided, you must be familiar with the area and have an accurate “level plan” of your expected route. You should inquire about work activity and conditions in the areas in which you intend to travel.

10.3 Read all signs and notices which give information about the area you will be traveling

through. 10.4 Before walking away from a lighted area, allow time for your eyes to adjust to the

illumination produced by your cap lamp. 10.5 Never direct the beam from your cap lamp at anyone else’s eyes, at it may temporarily

reduce their vision. 10.6 Do not enter any areas which are barricaded and marked with “Danger - No Traveling”

signs (or similar signs). Never travel in abandoned workings. 10.7 Beware of open ore passes, stopes, and other vertical openings which may not be

effectively barricaded or marked by signs. FALLS INTO OPENINGS ARE THE SECOND LARGEST CAUSE OF

FATALITIES UNDERGROUND. 10.8 Beware of tripping hazards, especially when walking along rail tracks, declines, or

through puddles. 10.9 Continually check the walls and back under which you are traveling. Look for loose rock

or signs of instability. If an area appears to be unsafe or unstable, do not enter it until it has been made safe or checked by a suitably experienced Site employee.

10.10 Beware of low hanging pipelines, brackets, loading chutes, or other structures that may

not be effectively marked. 10.11 Memorize the route you are traveling. Be able to return unaccompanied if required.

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10.12 Note the locations of any ‘Escape Ways’, ‘Safety Refuges’ or ‘Fresh Air Bases’ in route and in the working area.

10.13 Note the locations of any fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and rescue equipment en route

and in the working area. 10.14 If you are traveling alone, or become separated from your guide, and your cap lamp fails,

sit down and wait for someone to find you. DO NOT MOVE AROUND IN THE DARK.

10.15 Never enter an area which contains blasting fumes, thick smoke, heavy dust, or in which

there is no airflow. 10.16 Use extreme care when traveling or working near mobile equipment. End of Module

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Module 11: Mobile Equipment 11.1 Operators of mobile equipment are often unable to see pedestrians hidden in ‘blind spots’

around the machine. NEVER ASSUME THAT A MOBILE EQUIPMENT OPERATOR CAN SEE YOU,

ESPECIALLY WHEN STANDING OR WALKING ALONE. 11.2 Always signal your presence to a mobile equipment operator from a safe distance. Use

your cap lamp to attract attention. Do not direct the beam from your cap lamp at the operator’s eyes when signaling!

11.3 Beware of standing close to articulated mobile equipment which can ‘bend in the middle’

suddenly! (e.g. most loaders and some trucks). This equipment can easily pinch you between it and the rib.

11.4 WALK ON THE SIDE OF THE DRIVE WHERE YOU CAN SEE THE

OPERATOR AND THE OPERATOR CAN SEE YOU. Note the position of safety bays or cut-outs in the walls of the travel ways. Stand in these

areas to allow mobile equipment to pass. If no safety recess is available, stand close to the wall, stop and let vehicles pass. In some

mines, local rules require the operator to stop and allow pedestrians to walk past the stationary equipment - follow your guide as to your action. If you are standing against the wall when a loaded truck passes watch out for falling rocks.

11.5 Beware of high concentrations of exhaust fumes or dust produced by diesel-powered

equipment. Use a personal respirator to filter dust and fumes. Avoid areas with poor visibility or excessive fumes.

11.6 YOU MUST NOT OPERATE ANY MOBILE EQUIPMENT UNDERGROUND

UNLESS YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED, AUTHORIZED AND ISSUED WITH A PERMIT SIGNED BY THE APPROPRIATE MINE REPRESENTATIVE.

End of Module Module 12: Bulk Explosive Loading Equipment Safety

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12.1 Underground explosive loading devices are machines and have set procedures to ensure

their safe operation. Explosive loading equipment can present hazards if procedures are not followed. Underground explosive loading equipment includes emulsion pumping units (i.e., U100), air pressurized ANFO pots, and air pressurized cartridge loaders.

12.2 An underground visitor must be aware of the following hazards and observe the

necessary precautions: Underground explosive loading equipment may be fitted with:

High pressure hydraulics.

Hot hydraulic fluid can unexpected be sprayed from a burst fitting or hose. This can present a dangerous hazard to your eyes and skin. Wearing your safety glasses in the vicinity of hydraulics can save your eyesight.

High pressure air.

High pressure water.

12.3 Underground bulk emulsion pumping units and carriers require these precautions be

observed: a) Orica emulsion pumping units are often mounted on a dedicated carrier supplied by

the project or mine owner. Be aware that some carriers have outboard positioning and stabilizing controls. You must avoid bumping into these controls after the carrier is set in position.

b) Do not ride on the carrier unless in a designated seat. ⌧ Do not ride on the fenders. ⌧ Do not ride in the loading basket.

c) Be aware that some carriers are articulated - watch for pinch points. d) Unless trained and certified to operate the emulsion pumping unit; ⌧ Do not start the pumping unit. ⌧ Do not open any values. ⌧ Do not hit any control panel buttons. ⌧ Do not disconnect any hoses; they may be charged or under pressure.

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e) Be aware that emulsion pumping units are fitted with safety trips, including: Burst disks. A burst disk is designed to rupture when high product pump pressure

occur. The burst disk can make a popping noise and does eject emulsion from an elbow near the product pump.

Pumps are fitted with both high pressure and low pressure safety trips. Pumping will

stop if tripped, and the certified operator will investigate and take the necessary corrective action.

f) Be aware that the hose blow-down procedure is normal for clearing a blocked hose

due to the loss of the water lubrication ring, and at the end of loading to clear residual product out of hose. This may involve the insertion of a small sponge into the hose and the pressurized ejection of both the sponge and emulsion. Do not stand in front of a hose that is being cleared.

g) Be aware that a bulk emulsion pumping unit may be equipped with a wired or

wireless operator remote loading control. The operator can activate the pump without warning to you. Do not operate the remote loading control unless requested.

h) Carriers may be equipped with a loading basket or cage. Do not work beneath it as

the operator may not know your proximity and lower it on top of you. i) Be aware of residual emulsion and hydraulic fluid on the carrier and the pumping

unit. If required to climb on or around this equipment it can present a slipping hazard. 12.4 Be aware of pocket contents. Loose items can fall into emulsion storage totes and tanks

which can become a unexpected hazard if passed into the pump system. 12.5 Emulsion is often stored underground in small capacity “totes”.

Use a ladder to gain access to totes for inspection or clean-out.

⌧ Do not jump from tote to tote; residual product can cause the surface to be slippery. ⌧ Do not enter the tote (it qualifies as a confined space). 12.6 Emulsion is often stored on the surface in large capacity overhead tanks.

Use a lanyard and belt when accessing overhead storage. ⌧ Do not enter the tank (it qualifies as a confined space).

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12.7 Prill pots can experience ANFO blow-back. Safety glasses with side shields can reduce the chance of ANFO being shot into the eyes. However, fine ANFO dust may still enter the eyes and cause a stinging sensation. The use of goggles can reduce this discomfort.

End of Module Module 13: Detonator Safety

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13.1 EXEL Non-Electric Detonator Safety a) In addition to the serious accident which occurred in an open cut coal mine in 1994

when a 4WD was reversed over a loaded blast hole, three unusual incidents have been reported underground over recent years involving the accidental initiation of signal tube products. Two of these occurred in the North American market and involved the unplanned firing of Long Period non-electric detonators when signal tube was stretched and snapped. The third occurred in Australia, and involved the severing and initiation of the tail of an LP signal tube assembly, although the remainder of the coil and consequently the detonator itself did not fire.

⌧ In the first incident, a hole was primed with an LP detonator and emulsion

cartridge before it was realized that the wrong delay had been used. On realizing this and discovering that the primer was stuck in the hole, the miner deliberately stretched the tube to break it in order to remove the unwanted tail. In snapping, a flash was observed at the collar of the hole and several seconds later the primer fired.

⌧ The second incident followed the discovery of a misfire in a development face.

One of the two miners on the incoming shift pulled on the signal tube left at the collar of the hole. He then reported seeing a streak of light in the tube and a small flash. Shortly afterwards the misfire exploded resulting in injuries to both men.

⌧ In the third incident, a development crew was in the process of loading the

shoulder holes in a face. A rock fell from the collar of a hole and landed on the loop of a ‘PRIMADET’ LP detonator used to prime a cartridge of ‘POWERGEL’. The miners reported seeing a flash from the signal tube, and on inspection it appeared that the severed tail of the tubing had fired; fortunately the outgoing tube to the primer did not fire. This event was confirmed on examination of the sections of the signal tube at Orica Helidon. Extensive efforts to reproduce the incident both on-site and in the laboratory at Helidon failed to produce any initiations.

It should be recognized that in the first two cases, recommended procedures for

handling non-electric detonators were not followed. In the third case had the rock landed on the primer, the impact may have resulted in initiation of the detonator.

b) The primer cartridge or booster should completely enclose the longest detonator to

give protection against impact or abrasion damage as the primer assembly is pushed to the back of the blast hole.

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c) If a primer assembly becomes jammed inside a hole, no attempt should be made to remove it with force.

d) Care should be taken when freeing a bulk loading hose stuck in the hole. A stuck

hose is often freed by gentle twisting. If the hose cannot be removed without excessive force (i.e., locking up and pulling the hose with the carrier), then the hose should be cut off at the collar.

e) It is recommended that hook-up of EXEL non-electric detonators to the detonating

cord trunkline commence only after loading is complete. f) The starter detonator(s) should be attached to the detonating cord trunkline as the

final step before leaving the face for firing. 13.2 Electric Detonator Safety a) Coal mines, and other mines where flammable gas or dust occurs such as some salt

potash unranium and other mines, need to use electric detonators. Electric detonators are often used in metal and non-metal mines as the primary initiation source for non-electric blasts. Be aware that electric detonators are subject to additional hazards which do not affect non-electric detonators or detonating cords under normal conditions. The main danger lies with extraneous electricity entering electric detonator circuits from external sources. Electricity may enter a detonator circuit as a result of lightning, static electricity, radio transmitters, or stray ground currents from faulty electrical equipment.

13.3 Fuse and Cap Safety a) The minimum length for a fuse and cap assembly is 3 feet (some states require 4

feet). A 3 foot fuse will give approximately 2 minutes of escape time (based on standard fuse burning at 40 seconds per foot). This allows approximately 2 minutes of escape time. SHORT FUSING (USING LESS THAN 3 FEET OF FUSE) IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND HAS RESULTED IN NUMEROUS INJURIES AND FATALITIES. If short fusing is observed, you are to exit the mine and report the practice to your supervisor immediately.

End of Module Module 14: Blasting Times

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14.1 Underground mines may or may not fire blasts at a specified time. In civil engineering

tunnels, the blasting time generally follows completion of charging and hookup and relocation of equipment to a safe distance.

14.2 Always take note of firing times at those sites having specified intervals and ensure that

you are in a designated place of safety during these times. Always allow a reasonable margin for variations between different clocks and watches at mine.

14.3 Be aware in those operations that have unrestricted fire times, blasting may occur at any

time. End of Module

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Module 15: Inspecting Blast Results 15.1 Extreme care must be taken when inspecting the results of blasts underground to avoid

hazards which may cause death or injury. Inspecting blast results in underground mines is generally more hazardous than at surface operations.

15.2 The dust and fumes from underground blasts can take a relatively long time to clear. This

depends on the location and efficiency of the ventilation system. Adequate time must be allowed for dust and fumes to clear before reentering the blasting area. Early reentry may result in death or injury from inhalation of toxic gases and post-blast fumes. Dust and fumes can also reduce visibility and result in collisions, falling, tripping, or inability to detect unstable rock.

15.3 The minimum recommended times between firing the blast and re-entering the blast area

are: with Non-Electric Detonators - not less than 15 minutes with Electric Detonators - not less than 15 minutes with Safety Fuse - not less than 30 minutes Re-entry time may also be specified by Federal, Provincial, State, or Territory regulations. Minimum re-entry times must be observed in the event of a suspected misfire. 15.4 Post-blast fumes may include explosive gases which can cause secondary explosions

after the main blast. Reentry times should make allowance for possible secondary explosions, depending on specific site conditions and the advice of experienced site employees.

15.5 When a blast has been initiated using electric detonators, the firing cable (‘firing line’)

must be disconnected from the power source (blasting machine or firing box) immediately after the blast. The firing cable should be ‘shunted’ and the lightning gap opened. The key (if equipped) should be removed and the firing box locked.

15.6 The crew who charged and/or fired a blast, or the corresponding crew on the next

working shift, is usually responsible for all activities involved with inspecting the blast result. However, all personnel, including Orica personnel in the company of Site employees, are responsible for their own safety.

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15.7 When returning to the blasting area, always travel in the company of an experienced miner who can assess the safety of the workplace and atmosphere. The miner will be responsible for all personnel movement and making the area safe. This includes barring down or scaling loose rock, and ‘watering down’ the workplace and muckpile. Orica personnel are not authorized to participate in barring down.

15.8 The vibration, concussion, and ground stress redistribution resulting from blasts can

loosen rock around openings located far from the blast site. Areas that are stable before a blast can become unsafe or collapse after a blast. If an area appears unsafe or unstable, do not enter it until it has been made safe or checked by an experienced underground worker.

15.9 Barring down or scaling is the process of knocking down loose rocks from the walls and

back. DO NOT BAR DOWN LOOSE ROCK YOURSELF. Leave the job to a mine employee who is task trained and experienced at barring down loose rock. Keep clear of the area being barred down.

If you observe a piece of ‘loose’, then you are responsible for bringing it to the attention

of a mine employee. The loose should be barred down by a mine employee to eliminate the hazard. If the loose is not barred down and you deem it a potential personal hazard, then remove yourself from the potential hazard area. Report the location of the loose to the Shift Supervisor after returning to the surface.

15.10 Watering down the muckpile with a hose rinses away dust and dissolves soluble blasting

fumes. Watering down the ribs and back also exposes cracked rock which requires barring down. The cooling effect of water on hot or blasted rock can cause rock fragments to loosen and fall from exposed rock surfaces.

15.11 Muckpiles of fragmented rock are usually stable, but rock fragments may move (‘rill’)

unexpectedly at any time. Muckpiles should only be climbed if it is absolutely necessary, and then with extreme care to avoid slipping, falling, or dislodging rocks which may injure others. Muckpiles in stope draw points can be extremely hazardous, and should never be climbed while ore is being ‘mucked’ from the stope.

15.12 Stope draw points should not be entered unless the muckpile is stable and is in contact

with the back (i.e.. the ‘brow’ is ‘closed’). An open ‘drawpoint’ or ‘brow’ indicates that the stope is empty or that ore is ‘hung up’ in an unstable arch which may collapse unexpectedly. In either situation, large rocks may silently fall and then rebound into the draw point. NEVER WALK OUT UNDER THE OPEN STOPE.

15.13 Longhole open stopes can produce large voids surrounded by broad expanses of

unsupported rock. Such voids must never be entered, and any inspection should be done

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from a safe location outside the stope. When inspecting the results of blasts in longhole open stopes, additional precautions are required to avoid hazards.

a) Never approach the edge of an open stope when visibility is reduced by dust, fog, or

fumes. b) Never lean over the edge of the stope, or stand, or work too close to the edge. If you

must approach the stope edge, always use a full safety harness and lanyard. c) Do not climb up a pile of broken rock at the edge of the stope. It may shift and

suddenly collapse. d) Walk carefully and slowly. Watch your footing and observe the stability of the rock

around you. e) If downholes have been fired, be aware of possible undercutting of the floor. f) If upholes have been fired, do not approach too close to the void. Do not walk out

into the open stope or stand under the overhanging ledge or brow of the rock above. g) If the toes of downholes have been fired, the area will be under cut. The length of

remaining blasthole collars must be measured to determine if it is safe to travel or work above the void. Experienced mine employees should be consulted to determine whether the “Crown Pillar” remaining between the floor and the void below is adequate for stability.

End of Module

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Module 16: Misfires 16.1 Misfired explosives are often difficult to detect in underground mines and tunnels, and

accidental initiation in a confined area can cause death or serious injury. It is essential to thoroughly look for any signs of misfires during initial blast inspection and all subsequent mucking operations.

16.2 Misfire means any explosive charges, or portions of charges, which are not successfully

initiated as intended during a blast. If there is any reason to suspect that a misfire has occurred, presume that it has, and take appropriate precautions.

16.3 Suspected misfire refer to: a) Any remaining blast hole or portion of a blast hole that contains damaged signal tube,

electric detonator wires, electronic detonator legwires, detonating cord or safety fuse. b) Any remaining portions of a charged blast hole such as a ‘cutoff’ or ‘butt’ that is

suspected to contain explosives. c) Any unexploded charge or suspected unexploded charge. d) Any situation where there is any reason to suspect that any explosives charges have

failed to explode. 16.4 Misfires must always be reported to the relevant mine supervisor. 16.5 Misfires involving products supplied by Orica must be entered into the Orica Product

Quality Complaint System. Reporting and recording product or equipment non-conformances is a fundamental step in improving safe work practices and product quality.

It may be requested that recovered explosives from a misfire be returned to the

manufacturer for analysis. Get permission from the Mine Manager or designated representative before removing samples from the property. In getting the sample back to the lab, it must be handled safely and stored and transported legally.

16.6 Mine employees are usually responsible for neutralizing misfires. Orica personnel may

be requested to assist them by providing information on specific explosives or misfire handling procedures. Investigating and handling a misfire is much like barring down - if you don’t really know what to do, you place yourself and others at great risk. Leave the job to those who are task trained and experienced. Never give recommendations which contravene statutory or local mine regulations.

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16.7 Orica personnel working underground may be exposed to a misfire situation. The

following guidelines are provided for observational awareness. If a dangerous practice or hazard is observed, it should be immediately brought to the attention of the mine employee. If the dangerous practice does not stop, or the hazard is not dealt with, Orica personnel must leave the area and bring the matter to the attention of the mine employee’s supervisor.

a) Exposed shock tubing, legwires, or detonating cord should never be pulled on so hard

as to stretch or break it. b) If undamaged shock tube, legwires, or detonating cord is protruding from the

blasthole collar, it may be possible to refire the misfire by ordinary methods at the next approved firing time. After firing, a thorough check must be made to recover any misfired explosives in the area.

c) Water resistant explosives such as bulk emulsion, cartridged emulsion, or dynamite

should be reprimed and refired using a new primer loaded on top of the exposed charge.

Misfires involving cartridged emulsions may require special handling. The product

may be ‘dead-pressed’, meaning it is desensitized and cannot be refired. Clearing dead-pressed cartridges of emulsion must be done with extreme care.

d) Stemming and ANFO may be washed out of the hole with low pressure water. The

hose and/or wand used to wash out the hole should be made of non-sparking material such as plastic or rubber. No exposed metal fitting should enter the hole.

After washing out the charge, the blasthole should be examined to determine whether

the priming charge, or part of it, still exists. If the primer is exposed, the blasthole should be reprimed and refired using a new detonator or primer assembly. Regulations generally prohibit the removal of the misfired priming charge.

e) If it is not possible to remove a misfire by refiring downlines, or repriming and

refiring the charge, it may be necessary to drill a ‘relieving hole’ adjacent to the misfire in an attempt to dislodge or sympathetically detonate the misfire. DRILLING RELIEVING HOLES IS DANGEROUS WORK AND SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ONLY AFTER ALL OTHER TECHNIQUES TO CLEAR THE MISFIRE HAVE FAILED. It is possible that the new hole will intersect and detonate the misfire during drilling. Regulations may not permit this procedure or require an approved written procedure first.

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f) If a misfire has not been dealt with by the end of the working shift, the misfire location should be marked, and if necessary, barricaded. The supervisor and the miners on the next shift have to be notified that a hazard exists and all relevant details passed along.

g) All damaged explosives recovered from a misfire should be properly destroyed.

16.8 Misfires must always be reported to the relevant mine supervisor, and recorded in the

‘Mine Record Book’ if required by regulations. End of Module

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Module 17: Definitions ADIT - a horizontal or nearly horizontal entrance to a mine. ADVANCE - the distance a tunnel or development face is extended in a blast. BACK OR ROOF - the rock roof above your head. BARRING DOWN - the removal of loose rock from the sides and back of a tunnel by means of a bar; also referred to as ‘SCALING’. BROW - the intersection of a vertical stope wall and horizontal surface (normally the back of the drive). BUTT - that portion of a blast hole which remains in the face after blasting. CAGE - a conveyance for carrying personnel in a shaft between the surface and underground levels in a mine. CAGE TENDER - a mine employee authorized to control the movement of the cage by means of “Shaft Bells” or “Shaft Signals”. CUT-OUT OR SAFETY BAY - excavations off drives or declines where pedestrians or light personnel transports can stand to allow mobile equipment to pass. DECLINE - a downward sloping tunnel used to provide access between different levels in a mine. Declines are developed in a downward directions whereas INCLINES go up. DRAW POINT - an opening beneath a stope where ore can be loaded out or removed. DRIFT - horizontal passageway used to provide access to a level. DRIVE - mine development or tunnel. FACE - the rock face that is to be blasted. LIFTERS - the bottom holes drilled in a face. MINE - any underground mine or civil construction project where Energetic Solutions personnel are working below ground. PORTAL - the entrance point into a tunnel.

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OREPASS/WASTEPASS - a vertical or steeply inclined opening through which ore or waste rock is passed from one level to the next. RAISE - vertical passageway used to provide access between levels of a mine. RIB - the rock walls of an underground opening. RILL - that portion of a muckpile that has spilled out into a drawpoint or drive from the stope or heading. SHAFT BELLS or SHAFT SIGNALS - the signaling system used by the Cage Tender or Miners to control movement of the cage in the shaft. SITE - any mine, tunnel, or other underground location where ES personnel are involved in blasting operations. STATION - an underground chamber adjacent to the shaft connecting the shaft to an underground level. STOPE - an area, within the orebody, from which ore is extracted. “Open Stope” - an area which remains as an open void during extraction. “Longhole Open Stope” - an open stope which is blasted using relatively long blast holes. TAG BOARD - a designated board on which all personnel entering a mine are obliged to place their identification tags to indicate whether they are ‘IN’ the mine working, or ‘OUT’ in a designated safe location. End of Module

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Closing Words You are about to enter the underground world. Where the distance you can see is likely to be limited by the lamp strapped to your helmet, where loose rock masses are above and beside you, where large mobile trucks and loaders squeeze through narrow passages, and where safety concerns are inherently greater than you are used to. To safely visit an underground mine or tunnel you must be aware of your environment at all times. There are dangerous areas in all operations, many of which will not be sign posted and which you may not recognize or be difficult for you to identify. The golden rules are: (1) Stay with your Orica or qualified Site guide at all times, (2) Don’t expect site personnel to look after you, and (3) Always be on the alert. Many of the hazards encountered underground are not present in our everyday lives and it often requires experience to assess conditions and make decisions that will ensure our safety and the safety of others.

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ORICA UNDERGROUND SAFETY AWARENESS TRAINING QUESTIONNAIRE Student Name: _______________________________ Title: _______________________________ Location: _______________________________ Date: _______________________________ Signature: _______________________________ This student questionnaire has been reviewed by: Reviewer Name: _______________________________ Title: _______________________________ Location: _______________________________ Date: _______________________________ Reviewer Signature: _______________________________ Correct answers have been discussed with the student. ______________________________________________________________________________

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Please write the answer to the following questions: 1. What training may be required by Orica and the Site before you can go underground?

MSHA 32-hour Inexperienced New Miner Training, Underground Mines MSHA 8-hour Yearly Underground Refresher Training

(failure to perform refresher training will prevent you from working underground until you complete the refresher training) Site Specific Safety Induction

(You are usually issued a Site Specific MSHA Form 5000-23. Many operations now require a copy of your current Form 5000-23 issued from your 32-hour underground mines training or 8-hour refresher. Make sure you carry your current form with you to Site, or you could find yourself remaining on the surface!) Orica Underground Safety Awareness Program

2. What are the four steps in the Mining Cycle?

(1) Drilling (2) Blasting (3) Scaling (4) Mucking and Ground Support

3. What Personal Protective Equipment is required when working underground? Safety Hard Hat Cap Lamp and Battery Self Rescuer Safety Boots Safety Glasses with Side Shields Identification Brass Ear Muffs and or Plugs Gloves Safety Belt Watch 4. You are walking down the ramp to your work area. Meanwhile, the miner in the loaded

haul truck traveling up the ramp is moving his cap lamp up and down in your direction. What does this mean? What actions might you take?

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“Retreat”. Move to nearest cut out or safety bay in the wall of the travel way. Stand in this area to allow the haul truck to pass. 5. What is the intent of the self rescuer?

The intent of the self rescuer to give you the time to make an emergency escape to surface, or if this is not possible, then to reach an underground refuge or barricade area to await rescue.

6. You have donned your self rescuer. The mouthpiece has become extremely hot and is

starting to burn your lips. What action should you take and why?

The self rescuer will get very hot when used in a high concentration of CO. The mouthpiece may actually get hot enough to burn your lips - DO NOT REMOVE IT FROM YOUR MOUTH! If you do remove it, then you will be overcome by CO poisoning.

7. You smell pine trees in the mine. What causes this and what should you do?

Most mines run “stench tests” as part of their regular safety training and awareness. Stench tests may be conducted on an announced or unannounced basis. If you smell stench advise your designated guide. He should establish communication (listen on the mine phone or radio over the leaky feeder) to determine if a stench test is being conducted or an actual emergency exists. If it an emergency exists, then don your self-rescuer and evacuate the mine or go to the nearest rescue chamber according to mine policy.

8. You have a pounding headache and your temples are throbbing. What could cause this?

Concentration of Carbon Monoxide. 9. You are breathing much more heavily then is normal for you. What could cause this? Concentration of Carbon Dioxide. 10. The work area you are in is extremely dusty. What should you do?

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Use a respiratory protective device, or retreat from area to fresh air. 11. What does ‘brass’ do? ‘Brass’is used to identify persons working underground. 12. You want to access the working stope of a narrow vein mine and find you have to climb a ladder way to get there. What precautions should you take? If anyone is working in or around a ladder way, notify them of your intention before

beginning to climb up or down.

Before using ladders, check their condition, including supports and stability, and beware of any loose rocks resting on bearers or platforms. If climbing with another person, either travel close together or wait until the other person is clear of the ladders before commencing to climb. This will minimize the risk of injury if loose rocks are dislodged and fall down the ladder way.

13. You are unauthorized to travel in the mine alone. Who must you remain with during the

duration of your visit underground?

Designated mine representative. 14. Why shouldn’t you shine the light from your cap lamp into anyone else’s eyes?

Never direct the beam from your cap lamp at anyone else’s eyes, at it may temporarily reduce their vision.

15. What is the most common cause of fatalities underground?

Rockfalls. 16. While standing in the work area and shining your lamp light along the back, you see a

piece of loose rock ? What do you do? What do you not do? Do Not Bar Down the Loose Yourself. If you observe a piece of ‘loose’, then you are

responsible for bringing it to the attention of a mine employee. The loose should be

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barred down by a mine employee to eliminate the hazard. If the loose is not barred down and you deem it a potential personal hazard, then remove yourself from the potential hazard area. Report the location of the loose to the Shift Supervisor after returning to the surface.

17. What is the second largest cause of fatalities underground?

Falls into Open Holes. 18. What should you do to prevent becoming a statistic to the cause in Question 16? Continually check the walls and back under which you are traveling. Look for loose rock

or signs of instability. If an area appears to be unsafe or unstable, do not enter it until it has been made safe or checked by a suitably experienced Site employee.

19. You walked down a long, steep decline to observe the round being loaded by the blast

crew using the newest piece of bulk loading equipment. The bulk equipment carrier has two seats. Miner One says its OK for you to ride out of the workplace with him and Miner 2, “you just have to sit on the det box there in the basket”. What do you do?

Ride only in an approved seating compartment. Do not ride the bumper, motor cover, fender, etc. Walk back out from the work area.

20. Why must you be aware of articulated mining equipment? Need to watch for pinch points. 21. You and miner “Slacker” are standing near the carrier of a U100 bulk emulsion pumping

unit. A hose bursts on the carrier and you and ‘Slacker” are suddenly sprayed with hot, high pressure hydraulic fluid. “Slacker” screams in pain and covers his eyes with his hands - but its too late for him. Later that night you call the hospital and they tell you “Slacker” is in “Satisfactory Condition”, but he’ll probably only regain partial eyesight...You got sprayed by the same stuff “Slacker” did but your eyes are going to be as good as they were at the start of the day... By conforming to safe working procedures your eyes were protected.

You were wearing your Safety Glasses equipped with Side Shields.

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22. A newly completed shaft bottoms out at the 2500 Level. A station needs to be cut at the 1000 Level. You have been requested to help the mine crew cut this station. You will be working off a galloway suspended in the shaft. In addition to you required PPE, what other PPE must you use?

Safety Harness and Lanyard.

23. Upon inspecting the face of a freshly blasted round mucking you see a signal tube

hanging out of a blast hole. What do you?

Mine employees are usually responsible for neutralizing misfires. Orica personnel may be requested to assist them by providing information on specific explosives or misfire handling procedures. Investigating and handling a misfire is much like barring down - if you don’t really know what to do, you place yourself and others at great risk. Leave the job to those who are task trained and experienced. Never give recommendations which contravene statutory or local mine regulations.

24. When can a blast be expected in a mine with unrestricted firing times?

At any time during the shift. 25. What is short fusing and why is it dangerous? SHORT FUSING (USING LESS THAN 3 FEET OF FUSE) IS EXTREMELY

DANGEROUS AND HAS RESULTED IN NUMEROUS INJURIES AND FATALITIES. If short fusing is observed, you are to exit the mine and report the practice to your supervisor immediately.

26. A round loaded with non-electric detonators is tied in with detonating cord and is to be

initiated with two 6-foot cap and fuse assemblies. The lead miner spits the fuses using a pull-wire fuse lighter. You and he take 3 minutes to retreat to a protective cutout several hundred feet up the drift. You wait for the blast for another 2 minutes....and no explosion occurs. What has happened and what initial actions should be taken?

The blast has misfired. Wait the recommended/regulated time before going back to inspect the blast area.

27. You are shown a recovered misfired detonator by a miner. You want to return the suspect

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unit for inspection. What steps would you take to do this?

Get permission from the Mine Manager or designated representative before removing samples from the property. In getting the sample back to the lab, it must be handled safely and stored and transported legally.

28. You want to inspect a freshly blasted longhole open stope. What precautions should you

observe? What is the one thing you must never do? Longhole open stopes can produce large voids surrounded by broad expanses of

unsupported rock. Such voids must never be entered, and any inspection should be done from a safe location outside the stope.

When inspecting the results of blasts in longhole open stopes, additional precautions are

required to avoid hazards. a) Never approach the edge of an open stope when visibility is reduced by dust, fog, or

fumes. b) Never lean over the edge of the stope, or stand, or work too close to the edge. If you

must approach the stope edge, always use a full safety harness and lanyard. c) Do not climb up a pile of broken rock at the edge of the stope. It may shift and

suddenly collapse. d) Walk carefully and slowly. Watch your footing and observe the stability of the rock

around you. e) If downholes have been fired, be aware of possible undercutting of the floor. f) If upholes have been fired, do not approach too close to the void. Do not walk out

into the open stope or stand under the overhanging ledge or brow of the rock above. g) If the toes of downholes have been fired, the area will be under cut. The length of

remaining blasthole collars must be measured to determine if it is safe to travel or work above the void. Experienced mine employees should be consulted to determine whether the “Crown Pillar” remaining between the floor and the void below is adequate for stability.

29. Why are relieving holes the last resort for neutralizing a misfire?

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DRILLING RELIEVING HOLES IS DANGEROUS WORK AND SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ONLY AFTER ALL OTHER TECHNIQUES TO CLEAR THE MISFIRE HAVE FAILED. It is possible that the new hole will intersect and detonate the misfire during drilling. Regulations may not permit this procedure or require an approved written procedure first.

30. You want to inspect a tote of emulsion stored in the underground magazine. What procedures and precautions do you follow?

Use a ladder to gain access to totes for inspection or clean-out.

⌧ Do not jump from tote to tote; residual product can cause the surface to be slippery. ⌧ Do not enter the tote (it qualifies as a confined space). 31. You are in the stope of an underground silver mine. One of the miners you are with is

smoking. Is he allowed to do this? Yes – provided the mine allows it. 32. What gas does a self rescuer remove from a contaminated environment? At a

concentration of 1.0% of this gas, how long can your self rescuer be expected to function?

Carbon Monoxide. One Hour. 33. What is a misfire?

Misfire means any explosive charges, or portions of charges, which are not successfully initiated as intended during a blast.

34. What hazard does worn, frayed, or loose clothing present?

Loose fitting or frayed clothes present an entanglement hazard, and as such, clothing should be well fitting and in good condition.

35. Who is the person most responsible for your personal safety?

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Me.

End of Questionnaire

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Document History Prepared By: Technical Manager Surface & Underground Mining Reno, Nevada Signed: _______________________________ Approved By: Director Field Technical Services Englewood, Colorado Signed: _______________________________ Latest Revision Approved by Group Manager Advanced Mining Services Revisions: 23 June 1998 Review Draft 12 August 1998 Final Draft - First Distribution to Field 06 May 1999 Revisions to Modules 3,5,6,12,13,15, and Questionnaire cover page 10 March 2000 Orica name change incorporated 11 August 2000 Revision to Module 7.4, Addition of 7.7, Orica logo incorporated 29 August 2000 Revision to Module 3; cotton clothing vs poly, self rescuer to 1.0% CO for 1 hour.

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26 October 2006 Updated . Clarified use of primer term. Leaky feeder warning sytem,. Misfire procedures, Remaining ES terms to Orica, W-65 training module, recovered lines lost from WP edition

17 February 2007 Document review and revision by .