The Development of Hazard Plans at Kestrel Mine

Kestrel Mine is currently longwalling in the 2.4-3.3 metre thick German Creek seam, at depths between 220 and 295 metres. Run of mine production for the year 2002 is budgeted at 5.3mt, ramping up to 6mt by 2004. Achieving these levels of production will require a thorough understanding of the geological and geotechnical environment. The identification of potential hazards prior to intersection, is vitally important to ensure a consistent coal flow, free of major disruptions and downtime. Hence the preparation of development and longwall panel hazard plans, is an integral part of the production process. Emphasis is on the compilation of detailed, but easy to read plans for the principal users, the workforce at the face.