Underground Mine Pre-Shift Safety Inspection Checklist

This checklist supports underground mine pre-shift examinations required by MSHA under 30 CFR Part 57 (Metal and Nonmetal Underground Mines) and 30 CFR Part 75 (Coal Mines). Designed for mine foremen and safety officers to document hazardous conditions before allowing workers to enter working areas.

  • Industry: Mining
  • Frequency: Before each shift
  • Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes
  • Role: Mine Foreman / Mine Safety Officer
  • Total Items: 22
  • Compliance: MSHA 30 CFR Part 57 Metal and Nonmetal Underground Mines, MSHA 30 CFR Part 75 Mandatory Safety Standards - Underground Coal Mines, NIOSH Hierarchy of Controls for Mining, ANSI/ASSE Z117.1 Safety Requirements for Confined Spaces (for raise/ore pass entry)

Methane and Air Quality (Coal Mines)

Methane gas monitoring and ventilation compliance.

  • Methane levels below 1.0% in all working areas (pre-shift standard)?
  • Ventilation fans operational and air flowing in correct direction?
  • Adequate air quantity reaching all working faces?
  • Methane detector/methanometer calibrated within past 30 days?

Ground Support and Roof Stability

Roof, rib, and ground support integrity.

  • Roof tested by sounding in all travel and working areas?
  • No loose rock or unsupported overburden in travel ways or working areas?
  • Roof bolts, timber sets, and support within required spacing per approved ground control plan?
  • Pillars in good condition with no excessive slabbing or fracturing?

Electrical Equipment

Underground electrical system and equipment safety.

  • All electrical equipment in gassy areas permissible and in good condition?
  • Equipment grounding cables intact and connected?
  • No damaged, cut, or unprotected electrical cables in travel ways?

Mining Equipment and Mobile Equipment

Underground mobile equipment pre-shift condition.

  • Mobile equipment (LHDs, bolters, scoops) pre-shift inspection completed?
  • Equipment headlights, tail lights, and backup alarms functional?
  • Equipment-mounted fire suppression systems charged and functional?

Emergency Preparedness

Mine refuge chambers, escapeways, and communications.

  • Primary and alternate escapeways clear and marked?
  • Refuge chamber/rock dusted refuge area accessible and supplied?
  • Underground communications system functional from all active working areas?
  • First aid equipment accessible in all working sections?

Pre-Shift Examination Records

Pre-shift examination documentation compliance.

  • All hazardous conditions found recorded in pre-shift examination book?
  • Identified hazards corrected or miners notified and areas barricaded?
  • Pre-shift examination book signed by examiner with date and time?
  • Additional hazards or conditions noted

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Why Use This Underground Mine Pre-Shift Safety Inspection Checklist?

This underground mine pre-shift safety inspection checklist helps mining teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for mine foreman / mine safety officer professionals, this checklist covers 22 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: before each shift.

Ensures compliance with MSHA 30 CFR Part 57 Metal and Nonmetal Underground Mines, MSHA 30 CFR Part 75 Mandatory Safety Standards - Underground Coal Mines, NIOSH Hierarchy of Controls for Mining, ANSI/ASSE Z117.1 Safety Requirements for Confined Spaces (for raise/ore pass entry). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Underground Mine Pre-Shift Safety Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 22 inspection items across 6 sections: Methane and Air Quality (Coal Mines), Ground Support and Roof Stability, Electrical Equipment, Mining Equipment and Mobile Equipment, Emergency Preparedness, Pre-Shift Examination Records. It is designed for mining operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed before each shift. Each completion takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

Who should use this Underground Mine Pre-Shift Safety Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Mine Foreman / Mine Safety Officer professionals in the mining industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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