What material must stoppings be constructed with?

Stoppings in underground mining operations are critical components designed to control air flow and prevent the spread of fire or hazardous gases. The use of incombustible material for constructing stoppings is essential for safety reasons. Incombustible materials, which do not ignite or support combustion, help to ensure that stoppings will remain intact and effectively contained, even in the event of a fire or explosion. This provides a crucial barrier to protect workers and equipment in the mine, enabling the safe management of air quality and the prevention of environmental hazards.

Wooden panels, while easily available, can pose a significant fire risk and would not meet the safety requirements for stoppings, as they can ignite and contribute to the spread of fire. Similarly, plastic sheets may not provide the durability or fire resistance necessary for effective stoppings. Metal frames can be useful in some construction applications, but on their own may not offer sufficient sealing or airflow control without the addition of appropriate incombustible barriers. Thus, opting for incombustible materials for stoppings is the best choice to enhance both safety and operational effectiveness in underground mine environments.