Elements and Performance Criteria
- Design pillar configuration to maximise safe material extraction
- Access, interpret and apply compliance documentation relevant to the work activity
- Determine location of materials/ore to determine design parameters
- Identify the potential hazards which could have an effect on pillar design and layout
- Identify the characteristics and properties of the roof to determine the span that can stand unsupported
- Identify ground conditions where secondary support will be needed
- Evaluate the effect of any adjacent mines and incorporate in pillar design
- Develop pillar system
- Plan and prepare for pillar development according to pillar design parameters
- Identify, address and/or report risks and hazards
- Select and use appropriate personal protective equipment
- Visually inspect work area to ensure safe access
- Ensure work area is properly ventilated before entry and is free of dust and fumes
- Inspect and assess site conditions to determine if scaling is required and take appropriate action
- Ensure that dust suppression and/or extraction is prepared and ready for use
- Arrange communications with other relevant personnel
- Conduct pillar development safely and efficiently
- Continuously monitor ground conditions and modify operation to maintain safe conditions
- Extract pillars
- Identify the strategic pillars which must not be removed for roof stability
- Establish and observe a retreat system
- Prop ground surrounding pillar before pillar removal
- Extract selected pillars starting furthest from shaft, in a systematic manner
- Prop ground area previously held by the removed pillars
- Continuously monitor ground conditions and modify operation to maintain safe pillar removal