What condition must highwalls maintain during mining operations?

What condition must highwalls maintain during mining operations?

• A. They must have a protective railing installed
• B. They should be free from overhanging material or loose rock
• C. They must be reinforced with steel supports
• D. They need to be watered down regularly to prevent dust

Answer: (B)

Highwalls must be free from overhanging material or loose rock to ensure the safety of mining operations. This condition is critical because loose material can pose significant hazards, including rock falls or landslides, which can endanger workers and equipment. Maintaining a stable highwall helps to prevent accidents and creates a safer working environment. The other options, while they each address safety in different contexts, do not specifically address the core requirement for highwalls. For instance, although protective railings or reinforcements may enhance safety in certain scenarios, the primary concern with highwalls is to eliminate risks associated with unstable or loose materials overhead. Regular watering to manage dust is important for visibility and air quality, but it does not directly impact the structural integrity of the highwalls themselves.

Highwalls must be free from overhanging material or loose rock to ensure the safety of mining operations. This condition is critical because loose material can pose significant hazards, including rock falls or landslides, which can endanger workers and equipment. Maintaining a stable highwall helps to prevent accidents and creates a safer working environment.

The other options, while they each address safety in different contexts, do not specifically address the core requirement for highwalls. For instance, although protective railings or reinforcements may enhance safety in certain scenarios, the primary concern with highwalls is to eliminate risks associated with unstable or loose materials overhead. Regular watering to manage dust is important for visibility and air quality, but it does not directly impact the structural integrity of the highwalls themselves.