Mining is by nature a dangerous business. The energy-intensive exploitation and extraction of raw materials such as coal, mineral oil or natural gas results in the emission of toxic substances into air and water, in addition to many other challenges. Mine operators today have a double responsibility – not only to protect the health and safety of their employees, but also to keep emissions below the legally prescribed limit values – without losing sight of the efficiency of the raw material extraction. The pressure on mining to assume more responsibility for its environmental effects is constantly increasing. The use of modern and proven measurement technology from Testo offers the support needed for successful production in the conflict between safety, environmental protection and efficiency.
Among the most common risks in the mining industry, especially underground and in coal extraction, is the occurrence of increased concentrations of combustible as well as toxic and asphyxiant gases. In mining, these are usually methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). For the mineworkers, carbon monoxide is a particularly treacherous hazard, as it negatively affects the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, while being colourless and odourless. All these parameters must be regularly and reliably monitored, analysed and if necessary optimized, in order to guarantee the health and safety of the mineworkers and meet the environmental protection stipulations.
What we like about the testo 340 is that it is very easy to use. It does not require any additional fixtures to attach it to exhaust tanks or the emission source we want to measure. Not to mention, it doesn't require much maintenance – it's really convenient.
Shirantha Perera
·Project Engineer at Cummins Inc