Learning objectives

• Describe the two main ground control hazards at surface mines.

• Identify and describe the main factors that influence ground stability.

• Describe safety precautions employers must implement to make sure individuals do not work or travel in areas where hazardous ground conditions exist.

• Describe techniques used to maintain wall, bank, slope, and perimeter stability.

• Describe techniques used to perform secondary breakage without exposing the miners, or other persons, to injury from falling materials.

Course overview

The purpose of the lesson is to provide mine contractors with an awareness of the federal regulations outlined in CFR 30, Part 48, Subpart B, Section 56 that address ground control at surface mines. The lesson is part of an 8-hour refresher-training curriculum that mining contractors must complete annually. The lesson addresses topics such as factors that influence ground stability, employer responsibilities regarding ground safety, and mining techniques designed to prevent hazards.