How far should a line brattice be maintained from the working face?

Maintaining the line brattice a minimum of 10 feet from the working face is essential for several reasons related to safety and ventilation management in underground mining operations.

Firstly, a brattice is used to direct airflow to the working area, and placing it too close to the working face can disrupt the airflow patterns and reduce the effectiveness of ventilation. By keeping it at a distance of 10 feet, there is an adequate buffer that allows for the effective movement of fresh air to the miners and helps dilute and carry away harmful gases and dust generated during excavation.

Additionally, this distance allows for safe access to the working face. It ensures that there is ample space for miners to work without the brattice obstructing their movements, reducing the risk of accidents or hazards associated with overexposure to dust or gases.

Furthermore, a distance of 10 feet provides a safeguard against potential collapses or sudden falls of rock or material from the working face, protecting both the brattice structure and the miners. This distance has been established based on industry standards, aligning with best practices to promote a safe working environment.

Therefore, maintaining the line brattice at this specified distance from the working face is vital for effective ventilation, miner safety, and operational efficiency in underground mining.