Mine Gas Flashcards
(65 cards)
What is air?
A transparent medium surrounding the earth, a mixture of gases
Air is essential for life and is composed of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide, and traces of other gases.
What is the specific gravity of air?
1.0
What is the percentage composition of nitrogen (N2) in pure, dry air?
78.09 per cent
What is the percentage composition of oxygen (O2) in pure, dry air?
20.94 per cent
What gases may contaminate mine air?
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
- Hydrogen sulphide (H2S)
- Methane (CH4)
- Oxides of nitrogen (NOX)
What are some causes of gas contamination in mines?
- Blasting or other explosions
- Mine fires
- Naturally occurring gas emissions
- Absorption of O2 by water, timber or ore
- Use of diesel engines underground
What are the three categories of harmful gases?
- Combustible or explosive
- Poisonous
- Capable of displacing O2
What does IDLH stand for?
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
What is the definition of TWA?
Time-weighted average limit for exposure to a hazardous substance
What is the definition of STEL?
Short-term exposure limit for a hazardous substance over a 15-minute period
What does a TWA of 5,000 ppm refer to?
The time-weighted average limit for carbon dioxide (CO2)
How are mine gases typically measured?
In parts per million (ppm) or per cent volume
What is the explosive range for methane (CH4)?
5 to 15 per cent volume or 50,000 to 150,000 ppm
What is the specific gravity of nitrogen (N2)?
0.97
Is nitrogen (N2) combustible?
No
What is the specific gravity of oxygen (O2)?
1.11
What is the physiological effect of oxygen deficiency at 7-10% O2 concentration?
Nausea, vomiting, collapse, loss of consciousness
What is the specific gravity of carbon dioxide (CO2)?
1.53
What are the symptoms of carbon dioxide (CO2) exposure at 5% concentration?
Headaches, dizziness, restlessness, disorientation
What is the specific gravity of carbon monoxide (CO)?
0.97
What is the IDLH concentration for carbon monoxide (CO)?
1,200 ppm
What is the primary hazard of carbon monoxide (CO)?
It has a greater affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen, causing poisoning
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning at 30-40% blood saturation?
- Severe headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Dimness of vision
- Nausea
What is the maximum concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) allowed for TWA?
5,000 ppm