BS EN 1804-1:2020 - Machines for Underground Mines

Safety Requirements for Hydraulic Powered Roof Supports

In the challenging and demanding environment of underground mining, safety and reliability are paramount. The BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard is an essential document that provides comprehensive safety requirements for hydraulic powered roof supports, ensuring that mining operations are conducted with the highest level of safety and efficiency.

Overview

This standard, officially titled "Machines for underground mines. Safety requirements for hydraulic powered roof supports Support units and general requirements", is a crucial resource for engineers, safety officers, and mining professionals. Released on January 31, 2021, it is the latest guideline that sets out the safety requirements for the design, construction, and operation of hydraulic powered roof supports used in underground mining.

Key Features

• Standard Number: BS EN 1804-1:2020
• Pages: 54
• ISBN: 978 0 539 02208 7
• Status: Standard

Why This Standard is Essential

Underground mining is fraught with potential hazards, and the integrity of roof supports is critical to the safety of miners. The BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard addresses these concerns by providing detailed requirements that ensure the structural integrity and operational safety of hydraulic powered roof supports. By adhering to these guidelines, mining operations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance the safety of their workforce.

Comprehensive Safety Requirements

The standard covers a wide range of safety aspects, including:

• Design and construction requirements to ensure the durability and reliability of roof supports.
• Operational guidelines to maintain safety during the use of hydraulic powered roof supports.
• Maintenance and inspection protocols to ensure ongoing safety and performance.
• Testing procedures to verify the compliance of roof supports with safety standards.

Benefits of Compliance

Compliance with the BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard offers numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced Safety: By following the safety requirements, mining operations can protect their workforce from potential hazards associated with roof support failures.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to this standard ensures that mining operations meet legal and regulatory requirements, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
• Operational Efficiency: Well-designed and maintained roof supports contribute to smoother and more efficient mining operations, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
• Reputation Management: Demonstrating a commitment to safety and compliance enhances the reputation of mining companies, fostering trust with stakeholders and the community.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard is an invaluable resource for a wide range of professionals involved in underground mining, including:

• Mining Engineers
• Safety Officers
• Maintenance Personnel
• Regulatory Authorities
• Equipment Manufacturers

Conclusion

In the high-stakes environment of underground mining, ensuring the safety and reliability of equipment is non-negotiable. The BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard provides the necessary framework to achieve these goals, offering detailed safety requirements for hydraulic powered roof supports. By implementing this standard, mining operations can safeguard their workforce, enhance operational efficiency, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.

Invest in the safety and success of your mining operations by integrating the BS EN 1804-1:2020 standard into your safety protocols. With its comprehensive guidelines and focus on safety, this standard is an indispensable tool for any organization committed to excellence in underground mining.

BS EN 1804-1:2020

This standard BS EN 1804-1:2020 Machines for underground mines. Safety requirements for hydraulic powered roof supports is classified in these ICS categories:

• 73.100.10 Tunnelling and tubing equipment

This document stipulates the safety requirements for the use of support units intended by the manufacturer. Examples of support units are: frame supports, chock supports, shield supports, paired frames and push-pull support systems including the components of advancing and anchoring devices which provide support functions. This document excludes fixing elements on the conveyor, coal-winning equipment, power set legs and rams, valves, hydraulic and electro-hydraulic control units, lighting and signalling facilities and other ancillary equipment. NOTE Some components are discussed in other parts of this series of standards. This document applies for support units that are used at ambient temperatures between −10 °C and 60 °C. This document also applies to support components and support accessories which are provided if the support unit is fitted with stowing equipment. This document identifies and takes account of: - the hazards that can possibly be induced through operation of the support units; - the hazardous areas and the operating conditions that can cause any type of hazard; - the situations that can result in hazards that cause an injury or impair health; - dangers that can be caused through mine gas and/or flammable dusts. This document describes methods for reducing these hazards. Clause 4 contains a list of the hazards discussed. This document does not specify any additional requirements for: - a particularly corrosive environment; - risks associated with manufacturing, transport and decommissioning; - earthquake. A complete hydraulic powered roof support consists of the support units (EN 1804-1:2020), legs and support rams (EN 1804-2:2020) and the hydraulic and electro hydraulic controls (EN 1804-3:2020). Each part of this multipart document addresses the safety requirements of the components mentioned in the scopes of the respective parts of this multipart series. This document is not applicable to all support units manufactured before the date of its publication.