What must be done with loose material above an auger mining site?

Removing loose material above an auger mining site is crucial for ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Auger mining involves drilling into the earth to extract coal or other minerals, and any loose material above can pose a significant risk of falling. Such material can lead to cave-ins or hazardous conditions for workers and equipment below. By removing the loose material, the site can be more stabilized, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring a safer working environment.

Other options suggest various levels of action that do not effectively mitigate this safety risk. Leaving the material as is or marking it for later inspection does not address the immediate danger it poses. Securing it with nets may offer temporary protection, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk of falls, as nets could fail or be ineffective against larger debris. Therefore, the safest and most proactive approach is to remove any loose material above the site.