Free MSHA Mine Rescue Questions and Answers

Question 1

If the problem statement states mine has three headings and the team enters from the side, how do you explore? The team map also shows headings.

Accepted Answer

Explore each heading sequentially starting from the leftmost heading and moving to the right.

Answer

Explanation:
By exploring each heading sequentially from left to right, the mine rescue team ensures systematic coverage of the mine and minimizes the risk of missing any areas. This approach aligns with standard mine rescue procedures and ensures thorough exploration of the mine.

Question 2

By law, a team is only required to have 6 team members. Can a team with only 6 team members compete at the National Contest?

Accepted Answer

No, they must have at least 7 team members to compete.

Answer

Explanation:
While the legal requirement set by 30 CFR Part 49 mandates a minimum of 6 team members, the National Rules for Mine Rescue Contests stipulate a minimum of 7 team members to compete. Therefore, a team with only 6 members would not meet the eligibility criteria for the National Contest.

Question 3

A team is advancing in an entry and is stopped by an unsafe roof. There is a gas placard 10 feet out by the unsafe roof. The other entries are blocked, but the team has timbers. If the team timbers through the unsafe roof, does the gas extend through the unsafe roof?

Accepted Answer

No, the gas does not extend through the unsafe roof if there was no placard indicating its presence.

Answer

Explanation:
According to mine safety regulations, the presence of a gas placard indicates the extent of the gas. Since there is no placard at the unsafe roof, the gas is not assumed to extend beyond that point. Therefore, timbers can be used to secure the unsafe roof without the assumption that gas extends through it.

Question 4

Can smoke return in the mine after ventilation is changed? How would that be indicated to the team?

Accepted Answer

Yes, smoke can return if ventilation changes are not properly managed, as indicated by increased smoke levels in the mine.

Answer

Explanation:
Smoke can potentially return in the mine if ventilation changes are not effectively controlled or if there are unforeseen circumstances. Increased smoke levels would indicate this issue to the mine rescue team, highlighting the importance of constant monitoring and adjustment of ventilation systems to maintain safe working conditions.

Question 5

Can you hold a curtain up to a rib corner that has an unsafe roof running across the imaginary rib line?

Accepted Answer

No, unless the unsafe roof has been properly supported, then holding a curtain is permissible.

Answer

Explanation:
Holding a curtain up to a rib corner with an unsafe roof running across it is generally not allowed due to safety concerns. However, if the unsafe roof has been properly supported and secured by the team, then holding a curtain up to the rib corner can be considered safe. It's essential to ensure the structural integrity of the roof before implementing any safety measures.

MSHA - Mine Safety and Health Administration Practice Test

MSHA - Mine Safety and Health Administration Practice Test

Free MSHA Mine Rescue Questions and Answers