What equipment is used to examine for methane in unsupported roof areas?

The equipment commonly used to examine for methane in unsupported roof areas is a probe. Probes are designed specifically for testing air quality and detecting the presence of gases such as methane in underground environments. They can be inserted into areas where direct access may be limited, allowing for accurate measurements of gas concentration levels without disturbing the surrounding area.

The design and functionality of a probe make it ideal for this purpose, as it can reach into inaccessible or hazardous locations while providing real-time data on gas levels. This is crucial in mining operations, where the presence of methane can indicate dangerous conditions that may lead to explosive situations if not properly managed.

Other potential options like detectors, readers, and scanners may not provide the same level of specificity and capability in confined or unsupported spaces as a probe does. While detectors can also measure gas levels, they typically require a more open environment or require the operator to bring the detector into close proximity, which may not always be feasible in unsupported roof areas.