Abstract:

Hard coal mining is one of the most important branches of Polish industry. Hard coal is the basic energy carrier, ensuring Poland a high degree of energy independence. However underground hard coal mining is characterized by extremely difficult and complicated working conditions. An inseparable element of the functioning of mining enterprises is the presence of many natural and technical hazards. Work safety in mining excavations determines the continuity of the hard coal mining process and directly translates into the efficiency of the mining production process. From a business point of view, it is therefore of great importance for the functioning of individual enterprises and the entire industry. In the mining production process, along with the increase in the depth of mining, a common phenomenon is the coincidence of natural hazards, which may cause additional disturbances in this process. The paper presents an analysis of dangerous events that have occurred in the hard coal mining industry in Poland in recent years. The results of this analysis indicate the most dangerous threats and classify their effects. In this respect, the most dangerous are natural hazards resulting from disturbance of the balance in the rock mass. The effects of technical hazards are also becoming more and more dangerous. From a business point of view, information on the structure of threats and their effects is of great importance, as they enable the targeting of preventive measures to the most dangerous areas. Obtaining current and reliable information about the safety situation in the mining industry may also constitute the basis for taking effective measures to improve the level of occupational safety and health in mining.