Arlington, VA — A recent explosion and fire resulting from an object striking a lithium battery-powered device has prompted the Mine Safety and Health Administration to issue a safety alert.
The agency describes the incident, in which a rock fell about 6 feet onto a continuous personal dust monitor resting on top of a continuous mining machine. Miners first spotted flames coming from the device before an explosion resulted in larger flames until extinguishing.
“Many devices such as the CPDM, hand-held radios, cellphones and cap lamps are powered by lithium batteries,” MSHA says. “When designed, manufactured, used and maintained properly, lithium and other battery sources for these hand-held devices are a safe power source.”
MSHA offers best practices related to the safe use of lithium and other batteries:
- Ensure miners appropriately use lithium battery-powered devices and protect them from unusual and excessive heat, stress, impacts, and other hazards.
- Conduct workplace examinations and eliminate hazardous conditions.
- Control roofs, faces and ribs near where people work or travel.
- Educate miners on the proper use and care of lithium battery-powered equipment, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Follow manufacturers’ instructions for storage, use, charging and maintenance of lithium batteries.
- Keep fire extinguishing equipment readily available.
