12th National Conference on Safety in Mines – Key DGMS Recommendations Explained
🛡️ DGMS Circular – 12th National Conference on Safety in Mines (2020) The 12th National Conference on Safety in Mines was held on 28–29 January 2020 in New Delhi, organized by the Ministry of Labour & Employment and Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS). The conference reviewed the implementation status of the 11th Conference recommendations and deliberated upon new challenges in mining safety. It came up with several key recommendations to improve health, safety, and disaster resilience in mines. 🔹 Key Themes of the 12th Conference The conference focused on five major safety areas:
Electrical Safety – Recent trends and strategy for improvement.
Information Technology in Mining – Use of digital tools for monitoring & safety.
Occupational Diseases – Addressing prevalence of pneumoconiosis and silicosis, improving dust control.
Disaster Prevention in Coal Mines – New preventive strategies.
Contractual Workers’ Safety – Special focus on health and safety issues of contract labour.
🔹 Detailed Recommendations
1️⃣ Electrical Safety in Mines
Ensure regular maintenance and inspection of electrical equipment.
Adoption of new technologies in cables, switches, and protection systems.
Training workers in electrical hazard identification and safe handling.
Emphasize arc protection systems and earth leakage protection devices.
Strict adherence to Indian Electricity Rules & CEA guidelines.
2️⃣ Role of Information Technology in Mining Safety
Introduce digital safety monitoring systems (IoT sensors, AI-based alerts).
Real-time monitoring of:
Gas concentration,
Dust levels,
Machinery health.
Use of GIS mapping, drones, and remote sensing for hazard identification.
Develop mine safety apps for reporting hazards and near-miss incidents.
Digitize records of accidents, inspections, and safety compliance.
3️⃣ Dust Control & Occupational Diseases (Pneumoconiosis/Silicosis)
Regular dust surveys and monitoring of respirable dust.
Introduction of wet drilling and dust suppression systems.
Mandatory use of respiratory protective equipment.
Establish medical surveillance systems for early detection.
Awareness campaigns among workers about dust-related health hazards.
Strengthen implementation of National Programmes on Silicosis & Pneumoconiosis.
4️⃣ Disaster Prevention in Coal Mines
Conduct comprehensive risk assessment for each mine.
Strengthen emergency preparedness and response plans.
Adoption of advanced gas detection and explosion-proof technologies.
Regular mock drills for rescue and firefighting.
Develop mine-specific disaster management plans.
Use of real-time communication systems underground.
5️⃣ Safety of Contractual Workers
Ensure equal safety standards for permanent and contractual workers.
Compulsory induction and refresher training for contract labour.
Maintain proper health records and provide medical check-ups.
Introduce incentive schemes for safe practices among contractors.
Ensure adequate welfare amenities (rest shelters, first aid, PPE).
Strengthen supervision and accountability of contractors.
🔹 Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
Conference Date & Place: 28–29 January 2020, New Delhi.
Organiser: Ministry of Labour & Employment + DGMS.
Reviewed: Implementation of 11th Conference recommendations.
Five focus areas:
Electrical Safety,
IT in Mining,
Pneumoconiosis/Silicosis & Dust,
Disaster Prevention in Coal Mines,
Contract Workers’ Safety.
Core message: Use of technology, training, and strict safety enforcement to reduce accidents, diseases, and disasters in mines.
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