Ground Control Inspections at a Mine
A ground control inspection is a documented, in-person examination of on-site terrain formations and locations that slope into working areas at a mine. As part of an ongoing ground control plan, these inspections help establish and reinforce prudent engineering design, reduce ground instability, and contribute to safer working conditions for miners and others on-site. This course covers the definition and purpose of a ground control inspection and includes examples of ground instability hazards, the definition of “angle of repose,” descriptions and examples of slope failures, and common ground control corrective actions. Based on MSHA’s Title 30 CFR Part 77 – Subpart K.
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Learning Objectives
• State the definition and purpose of a ground control inspection • List two primary hazards of ground instability • Define the term “angle of repose” • Identify and describe slope failure signs, types, and causes • List components of an effective ground control plan • List best practices for the preparation and performance of a ground control inspection for highwalls, benches, the pit, and spoil banks • Describe preventive measures to reduce ground instability hazards • List common ground control hazard corrective actions • List best practices for inspection and corrective action reports
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | 30 CFR Part 77 - Subpart K |
Key Questions
What is a ground control inspection?
A ground control inspection is a documented, in-person examination of on-site terrain formations and locations that slope into working areas at a mine.
What are two primary ground instability hazards?
Ground instability can cause a person or equipment to fall to a lower level or it can cause material to slide or topple onto miners or equipment from above.
What are some preventive measures for ground instability hazards?
Measures that can be taken to prevent ground instability hazards include; removing trees and vegetation from the top of a highwall, stripping loose material from banks and highwalls, and positioning barriers and other devices to prevent falling material from reaching work areas.
Sample Video Transcript
Highwalls in proximity to work areas should be inspected at the beginning of each work shift and after every rain, freeze, or thaw to watch for and record signs of: •Slopes or wall angles that exceed the material’s angle of repose •Drop zones and slide barriers at the base of highwalls where fallen material has collected or breached •Areas showing signs of instability or potential failure, such as stress cracks, overhangs, loose unconsolidated material, or fallen rocks outside of drop zones and barriers
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