Common Injuries Mining

Mining for any oar either in open cut mines or underground mines does have some intrinsic risks associated with the industry. Even though advances in risk management, occupational health and safety as well as protective equipment have decreased the likelihood and severity of injuries, the mining industry by it’s very nature has more inherent risks.

So what are some of the injuries that mine paramedics or mine medics have to deal with?

Crush injuries – as a result of falling rocks (in severe situaitons -very uncommon in Australian mines these days). Crush injuries as a result of equipment falls are more common.

Hydrolic oil injuries – as a result of struts rupturing and spurting high pressured oil. This is a very serious injury and should be taken as such.

Back injuries – although miners rarely life rocks by hand anymore, miners still move heavy machinery on a regular basis and have a higher rate of back injuries than people employed in other industries.

Cuts, Scrapes, and Bruises – like with any other trade industry, these injuries are common.

Normal medical problems – still occur like in every other industry, but may be exacerbated by the working conditions.

Breathing problems -asthma and breathing problems can occur as a result of high levels of dust, pollutants and other antigens in the air.