Utilisation of the safety index (Elmeri index) as the OSH indicator at coal mines

Abstract

The article describes the main performances of the global coal industry, as well as key occupational safety and health indicators (OSH indicators) of the coal mining industry of the Russian Federation. The main goal of the article is to present the results of research of potential utilisation of the Elmeri observation method in order to evaluate safety levels at underground coal mines. The investigation performed taking into consideration two root causes of the occupational traumatism (methane and/or dust explosions, as well as rock falls) has demonstrated good correlation between the calculated values of the safety index and results of the risk assessments at the same underground coal mine under consideration. In addition, the article includes a brief discussion of advantages and restrictions in respect of utilisation of the safety index as the OSH monitoring tool at coal mines.