Safety in Mining: Surface Fires

About the Course:

This online course introduces participants to the fundamental concepts of surface fires in mining. You will learn how understanding the three elements of fire aids in fire suppression, identify the four classes of fires, and explore the primary causes of fires, especially in electrical equipment.

Participants will gain essential knowledge on:

• How fires spread
• What do flammability range and explosive range mean
• Key requirements for managing a surface flammable liquids store

Fire safety is a vital skill in mining environments, where the risk of fire-related incidents is high. This course goes beyond basic fire safety, offering a comprehensive look at fire behavior and control in surface mining operations.

You will explore:

• The science of how fires originate and spread
• Correct use of extinguishing agents for different combustible materials
• The dangers of inappropriate suppression methods (e.g., using water on electrical fires)
• Key safety concepts such as flash point, flammability range, and explosive range
• Regulations and best practices for handling and storing surface-flammable liquids, including outdoor storage prevention measures

By the end of this course, participants will gain practical, applicable knowledge to identify hazards, respond effectively to fire emergencies, and contribute meaningfully to a safer mining workplace.

Course Objectives:

By completing this course, participants will be able to:

• List the three elements of fire and explain how they aid in fire suppression
• Identify and categorize the four classes of fires, with examples
• List the main causes of fires, including those specific to electrical equipment
• Explain what causes short circuits in windings
• Describe how fires spread
• Define flash point
• Explain the concepts of flammability range and explosive range
• State the requirements for surface flammable liquids storage
• Describe prevention measures for outdoor storage areas

Who is the Target Audience?

• Employers
• Professionals in legal or HR fields
• Aspiring Occupational Health & Safety officers or inspectors
• Individuals seeking knowledge of workplace rights
• Members of human rights or environmental advocacy groups
• Workers in or entering the mining, construction, or forestry industries

Basic Knowledge:

• Preferably high school education or equivalent. No prior fire safety knowledge is necessary.