The number of coal miners working underground is to be
restricted in efforts to improve the safety of mining work, said
the coal mining safety watchdog.
Zhao Tiechui, director of the State Administration of Coal Mine
Safety, said no more than 100 people are allowed to work
underground per shift in state-owned coal mines. According to Zhao,
this is feasible for all 176 mines owned by 13 state-owned
enterprises.
"Miners working underground are constantly exposed to accidents
and risks owing to outdated equipment and backward mining
technologies," said Zhao.
Apart from the ceaseless litany of smaller tragedies, China has
experienced eight major 100-fatality plus mining disasters since
2000, said Zhao.
The State Administration of Work Safety and relevant departments
issued guidelines?in Beijing?Friday, saying
over-production must be prevented to avoid major mining
accidents.
He added that the new regulation will also help improve mining
techniques and methods to make the work safer and more
efficient.
(Xinhua News Agency November 25, 2006)