Mining Publication: Self-Contained Self-Rescuer Donning Proficiency at Eight Eastern Underground Coal Mines

• Closed circuit breathing apparatus
• Training and curriculum measurement

The U.S. Bureau of Mines evaluated the self-contained self-rescuer (SCSR) donning proficiency of 243 miners. These workers were from eight underground coal mines in the eastern United States. The objectives of the study were (1) to gather information on skill levels, since all miners in the study had prior instruction and opportunity to practice donning the apparatus, and (2) to summarize a quality control procedure useful in conducting periodic evaluations of donning proficiency. The sampling procedure used proved to be both reasonable and efficient in gathering information on training effectiveness. It also provided a good statistical base for making informed site-specific decisions regarding scsr training needs. Results from the observed samples at each of the eight mines indicate a wide variability across sites. The rate at which miners failed to isolate their lungs varied from 3.3 to 40.0 pct. Concomitantly, proficiency rates (miners either performing adequately or demonstrating a perfect 3 + 3 sequence) ranged from 13.3 to 63.3 pct.