Mining and People

Question 1

How do the miners get fresh air so deep down underground?

Answer 1

Through ventilation shafts and pumps

Question 2

Why do they need fresh air pumped down into the shafts?

Answer 2

Because the air is polluted and dusty

Question 3

What are some of the dangers of working under ground?

Answer 3

1. Rockfalls can trap and injure miners
2. Drilling is noise and can damage hearing
3. Explosions are loud and dangerous

Question 4

How hot can it get underground?

Answer 4

50 degrees Celcius

Question 5

What is one of the disease that miners can get?

Answer 5

Pneumoconiosis

Question 6

Which part of the body does pneumoconiosis affect?

Answer 6

Lungs

Question 7

What causes pneumoconiosis?

Answer 7

When miners breath in mineral dust

Question 8

Is pneumoconiosis fatal

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Name another disease that miners can get?

Answer 9

Silicosis

Question 10

What diseases do you get from Silicosis?

Answer 10

1. Tubercolosis

2. Lung cancer

Question 11

List the 4 laws that have been created to protect the miners?

Answer 11

1. Area must be ventilated
2. In some places, the workers must wear oxygen masks
3. The rock face must be kept wet
4. Machines and equipment must be checked to make sure they working

Question 12

List the main minerals mined in South Africa (8)

Answer 12

1. Gold
2. Diamonds
3. Platinum
4. Silver
5. Copper
6. Iron Ore
7. Chrome
8. Manganese

Question 13

Name the 5 main risks for miners

Answer 13

1. Heat
2. Rock falls
3. Dust
4. Poor air supply
5. Miners get diseases