All about mine self-rescuers

Working underground, even just moving in underground utilities, can be very dangerous. Modern technology, however, makes it possible to at least partially compensate for possible risks. Mining workers need to know everything about mine self-rescuers.

The name itself suggests that the mine self-rescuer will have to be used in a mine (in closed underground workings). Unlike gas masks and advanced respirators, such devices are not designed for prolonged exposure to a toxic atmosphere.

The constituent parts of the device are:

• frame;
• glasses;
• breathing bag;
• starting mechanism;
• mouthpiece;
• corrugated tube;
• nose clip.

With the help of a self-rescuer, you can eliminate the primary consequences of accidents in mining mines. But these models are also used in a wide variety of industrial facilities. Since an automatic starting unit is provided, self-rescuers will assess the situation without human effort. If the atmosphere is gaseous, the device will begin to operate. If the tightness is broken, the indicator turns red.

Popular insulating mine self-rescuer SHSS-1... This is a single-use apparatus that contains bound oxygen. A pendulum breathing pattern is used. Operating temperatures range from –20 to +40 degrees Celsius. Main parameters:

• protective effect for 60 minutes when driving at a speed of 4 km / h;
• time of continuous work at the stand 50 minutes;
• dimensions with folded shoulder strap 27 cm high and 15 cm wide;
• total weight 3.1 kg;
• average term of normal operation - 5 years.

For demonstration purposes, use training self-rescuers SHSS-1T2... The device is optimized for training people as close as possible to an emergency. The designers have worked out the optimal imitation of the sensations that arise when using real rescue equipment. But professionals should still train only in special imitation mines.

OSR 40 is a self-rescuer based on chemically bound oxygen. The device is intended for places not only with a toxic atmosphere, but also with a lack of oxygen. Based on the results of practical work, the service life was increased to 7.5 years (over 10 years, subject to successful testing). A breathing bag with a volume of 7 liters or more is used. The device weighs 2.05 kg.

It is necessary to be included in the mine self-rescuer when holding your breath. Taking the device itself, put the shoulder strap around your neck as quickly as possible. The self-rescue device is pressed against one side. Sharply open the lock in this position and discard the cover of the case. Next, they take a mouthpiece with their mouths, laying the plates in the gap between the gums and lips.

The nose is closed with a special clip. The first exhalation is done as energetically as possible. You must continue to breathe at your usual pace. The shoulder strap is tightened to prevent the mouthpiece from pulling out of the mouth with the corrugated tube.

There are special safety requirements when using mine self-rescuers. Do not grasp the strap of the case lock with your hands. It doesn't matter if they just want to pick up the self-rescue device or move it. Protect such equipment from shock and shock. It is worth remembering that even chemically bound oxygen dramatically increases the risk of fire, and burn-through may occur upon contact with power sources.

Forbidden:

• leave and keep the self-rescuer near heating, heat-emitting devices;
• wash it with water;
• use as a support, seat, stand;
• leave and transfer to someone, except in cases of direct struggle for life;
• use a self-rescuer with damaged seals.

The personal breathing apparatus must be inspected daily. If the case is deeply damaged, seal or shoulder strap is missing, the device should be replaced immediately. The self-rescuer indicator must be inspected at regular intervals four times a year. The leakage indicator is checked in the presence of the safety officer. You can change the key belt yourself and seal the end of the belt in the ring.

It is also allowed to press it again with a bracket and reinforce the lock stop on the lid. It is allowed to use for replacement of parts from decommissioned devices. Storage temperature can range from –40 to +40 degrees, heating is not needed, but dryness is important. Packages are collected in stacks; rupture of stacks at least 1 m. Dragging packages, stacking devices with lids to one side or downward are not allowed; all other requirements for care and work - in the instructions.

For an overview of the ShSS-T mine self-rescuer, see below.