🏗️ Detailed Notes
1️⃣ Introduction
Mining operations are exposed to various hazards such as fires, explosions, inundations, roof collapses, and toxic gas releases. To minimize the impact of such events, every mine must have a well-structured Emergency Management Plan (EMP). As per DGMS Circular No. 08 of 2017 and relevant regulations under CMR 2017 (Reg. 199) and MMR 1961 (Reg. 199), every mine is required to formulate, document, and periodically test an EMP. The EMP ensures preparedness, prompt response, and effective recovery in case of an accident or disaster.
2️⃣ Objectives of Emergency Management Plan
- Prevent loss of life, property, and environment.
- Establish a chain of command and clear communication flow.
- Ensure quick rescue and medical response.
- Restore normal operations safely.
- Comply with DGMS and statutory requirements.
3️⃣ DGMS Legal Framework
| Provision | Description |
|---|---|
| CMR 2017 – Regulation 199 | Requires every mine to prepare a detailed emergency plan. |
| MMR 1961 – Regulation 199 | Similar provisions for metalliferous mines. |
| DGMS Circular (Tech.) 08/2017 | Model guidelines for formulation and implementation of Emergency Management Plans. |
| The Disaster Management Act, 2005 | Mandates institutional preparedness and coordination. |
4️⃣ Types of Emergencies in Mines
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Natural Disasters | Floods, heavy rains, landslides, earthquakes. |
| Operational Disasters | Roof fall, fire, explosion, gas emission, inundation. |
| Technical Failures | Power failure, ventilation stoppage, machinery breakdown. |
| Health & Safety Emergencies | Epidemics, heat stroke, or mass casualty incidents. |
| Security Threats | Sabotage, theft, or terrorism. |
5️⃣ Components of an Emergency Management Plan
(a) Identification of Hazards: Risk assessment of all mining operations and mapping of vulnerable zones.
(b) Organizational Structure: Incident Controller (Mine Manager), Deputy Controller (Assistant Manager), Rescue Team, Medical Officer, and Communication Officer.
(c) Communication System: Dedicated emergency telephone/radio network, display of emergency numbers, and immediate reporting to DGMS and DDMA.
(d) Facilities & Equipment: Mine Rescue Station, firefighting equipment, breathing apparatus, ambulances, and emergency shelters.
6️⃣ Emergency Procedures
| Type of Emergency | Immediate Action |
|---|---|
| Fire | Isolate area, alert personnel, activate firefighting system. |
| Explosion | Stop power, withdraw personnel, start rescue operation. |
| Inundation | Stop pumping, evacuate, seal affected area. |
| Roof fall | Rescue trapped persons using roof support and ventilation. |
| Toxic gas leak | Use self-rescuers, inform DGMS, and seal source. |
7️⃣ Mock Drills & Training
- Mandatory quarterly mock drills for all mine workers.
- Record of each drill to be maintained in Form-M.
- Annual full-scale emergency rehearsal in coordination with DGMS and District authorities.
- Post-drill evaluation report to identify gaps.
8️⃣ DGMS Requirements for Emergency Plan Approval
- Plan must be site-specific and approved by the Mine Manager.
- Updated copies to be sent to DGMS, Rescue Station, and Local Authorities.
- Display summary at surface office and main workings.
- Review every 12 months or after major modification.
⚡ Quick One-Liners (Revision Points)
- Emergency Plan is mandatory under Reg. 199 of CMR/MMR.
- DGMS Circular 08/2017 provides guidelines.
- Mine Manager = Incident Controller.
- Communication officer ensures information flow.
- Mock drills – quarterly.
- Annual rehearsal mandatory.
- Fire, inundation, and explosion are key emergencies.
- Records kept in Form-M.
- EMP reviewed annually.
- Rescue equipment must be inspected monthly.
🧠 Descriptive Model Question & Answer
Q. Describe the statutory requirements and key components of an Emergency Management Plan (EMP) in coal and metal mines as per DGMS guidelines.
Answer:
As per Regulation 199 of the Coal Mines Regulations, 2017 and Regulation 199 of the Metalliferous Mines Regulations, 1961, every mine must prepare a detailed Emergency Management Plan (EMP) approved by the Manager and available for inspection. The plan should include identification of possible emergencies (fire, explosion, inundation, roof fall, etc.), a clear organizational structure, and communication system. The Mine Manager acts as the Incident Controller, supported by a Deputy Controller, Rescue Team, Medical Officer, and Communication Officer. DGMS Circular (Tech.) 08 of 2017 mandates quarterly mock drills, annual full-scale rehearsals, and submission of EMP to DGMS and local disaster authorities. Facilities like firefighting systems, rescue chambers, breathing apparatus, and first-aid stations must be part of the preparedness system. Hence, an effective EMP ensures prompt response, safety, and disaster resilience in Indian coal and metal mines.
🎯 25 MCQs – Emergency Management Plan in Mines
Q1. EMP in mines is required under which regulation?
Q2. DGMS Circular for EMP guidelines:
Q3. Head of emergency control in a mine:
Q4. Frequency of mock drills:
Q5. Form for recording drills:
Q6. EMP must be reviewed:
Q7. Major emergency in coal mine:
Q8. Mine Manager’s role in EMP:
Q9. Communication system includes:
Q10. EMP display required at:
Q11. Annual rehearsal of EMP is:
Q12. EMP is to be submitted to:
Q13. DGMS circular focuses on:
Q14. Rescue station facilities are mandatory under:
Q15. Mine emergency plan approved by:
Q16. EMP should cover:
Q17. Immediate action during fire:
Q18. EMP must ensure:
Q19. Which Act governs national disaster response?
Q20. Equipment essential in emergency:
Q21. EMP must be site-specific because:
Q22. Rescue training frequency as per DGMS:
Q23. EMP summary displayed in:
Q24. Major advantage of EMP:
Q25. DGMS mandates EMP testing:
🔗 Internal Linking Suggestions
| Related Topic | Read More On... |
|---|---|
| Mine Rescue | Mines Rescue Rules, 1985 - Notes & MCQs |
| Accident Management | Accident Investigation & Legal Framework in Mining |
| Safety Management | Building a Safety Culture in Mines - DGMS Notes |
| Risk Management | Behavioural Safety, Risk Matrix & TARP |
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