Mining works tailored for safety and efficiency — how PRG-M advances underground operations
In this post, we show how mining works are planned and executed to combine safety, productivity, and cost control. Based on the experience of PRG-M (Mining and Assembly Works Enterprise), we present five pillars of efficient operation: blast work, anchor casing and mesh reinforcement, conveyor deflectors, ventilation infrastructure, and systematic quality and OHS monitoring.
Mining works: blast work and advance planning
Precise drilling and proper charge selection determine the quality of excavation and the condition of the rock surrounding the excavation. PRG-M conducts blast work according to blast design, emphasizing shock control, maintaining cross-section, and minimizing waste after blasting. A cohesive chain: design → drilling → loading → blasting → ventilation ensures quick crew return to the face.
- Drilling network for controlled crushing/chipping
- Charge selection based on lithology and excavation purpose (relaxation, crushing, profiling)
- Pinty venting, gas and dust measurements
To recall the principles of safe blasting operations, refer to WUG guidelines — materials on OHS and blast work organization.
Anchor casing and roof and rib mesh reinforcement
The stability of the excavation is the foundation of continuous extraction. PRG-M performs anchor casing, roof and rib mesh reinforcement, and where necessary — combines wire anchors with mesh and spraying. Each project is preceded by a geotechnical assessment and load testing, complemented by stress monitoring systems.
- Installation of mechanical, resin, and wire anchors, steel plates, meshes, and grouts.
- Selection of anchor spacing appropriate for rock mass class and cross-section of the excavation.
- Add-ons: masonry and concrete linings, reinforcement at corners and intersections.
Practical safety tips for anchoring: MSHA bulletin Rock Bolting Safety Alert.
Belt deflection: conveyor belts in service for production flow
Designed and maintained conveyor deflector eliminates bottlenecks. PRG-M manages conveyor housing and extensions, chutes, feeders, and retention tanks, as well as control systems (PROMOS, PROTOS, INCOM, ELSAP) and AOT automation for horizontal transport. This is complemented by the construction of LV/MV cable lines and MV switchboards to integrate drives and protections.
- Design of route and falls, selection of belt and pulleys for underground conditions.
- Drive stations, braking systems, slip monitoring, dust suppression.
- Safe LOTO procedures and emergency pull switches along the entire length.
It is worth referring to HSE guidelines on nip-points and conveyor guards.
Mine ventilation: ventilation dams, bridges, and fresh air flow
A stable aerological system reduces methane and dust risks and shortens blast delay downtimes. PRG-M implements ventilation dam construction (including bridges and ventilation shafts), underground air conditioning systems, drainage and fire protection pipelines, and pump stations. We design and implement solutions for wall and intersection areas to maintain required airflows and directions.
For more information, we recommend GIG resources: Mine Ventilation and Air Conditioning Laboratory.
Quality control, OHS, and monitoring — a safe work front
Standards for OHS are not add-ons — they are the core of work organization. PRG-M implements site instructions, gasometry procedures, routine inspections of roofs and ribs, periodic audits of documentation and training, as well as electrical inspections (MV/LV) and control system tests. This helps maintain high availability, reduce failures, and stabilize the advance rate.
Current articles on good practices published by WUG in the quarterly “Safety and Environmental Protection in Mining”.
Talk to PRG-M about your mining works
Q&A: brief answers
Q: What elements most often determine the pace of work?
A: Coordination of blast work with overburden ventilation, efficient belt deflection without delays, and quick installation of anchor casing in the face.
Q: Can PRG-M also take over the electrical infrastructure and control?
A: Yes — we perform switchgear and transformer station chambers, HV/MV/telecommunications cable lines, and install automation and conveyor control systems (PROMOS, PROTOS, INCOM, ELSAP).
TL;DR
PRG-M links safe mining works with efficient ore logistics and proper support. In practice, this means: precise blast work, anchoring and mesh reinforcement adapted to rock mass, conveyor deflectors with automation and shields, effective ventilation with dams and air conditioning, and continuous quality and safety monitoring.