title: Injury Surveillance and Safety Considerations for Large-Format Lead-Acid Batteries Used in Mining Applications.
abstract: Large lead-acid batteries are predominantly used throughout the mining industry to power haulage, utility, and personnel-carrier vehicles. Without proper operation and maintenance, the use of these batteries can introduce mechanical and electrical hazards, particularly in the confined, and potentially dangerous, environment of an underground coal mine. A review of the Mine Safety and Health Administration accident/illness/injury database reveals that a significant number of injuries occur during the maintenance and repair of lead-acid batteries. These injuries include burns from electrical arcing and acid exposure, as well as strained muscles and crushed hands. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health investigated the design and implementation of these batteries to identify safety interventions that can mitigate these inherent hazards. This paper promotes practical design modifications, such as reducing the size and weight of battery assembly lids in conjunction with lift assists, as well as using five-pole cable connectors to improve safety.
authors: Office of Mine Safety and Health Research, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15216 USA.
authors: Miguel Angel
authors: MA
authors: Reyes
authors: Department of Mining Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506 USA.
authors: Thomas
authors: T
authors: Novak
keywords: Coal mining; lead-acid battery safety; mining industry; occupational health; occupational safety