OMSHR’s Effort on the Next-Generation Closed-Circuit Mine Escape Respirators

"The Office of Mine Safety and Health Research (NIOSH-OMSHR) currently is leading an effort in the development of the next-generation self-escape apparatus as part of the research imperative directed by the MINER Act of 2006. A multifaceted contract program over the past 3 years delivered key components and base breathing modules to form the basis for developing backpack and vest-style versions of dockable self-contained (closed-circuit) self-escape respirators with hoods (CCMERs). This paper outlines the current status in developing the CCMER that incorporates a docking and switch-over valve (DSOV) for seamless transfer from one breathing device to another, and a hood with an inner mask and speech diaphragm (HMC) for ease of donning, ease of use, and communication ability. Three versions of the CCMER are being pursued, namely: the CCMER-B, which can be worn as a backpack and incorporates the features of a miner’s belt; the CCMER-V, which is worn similar to a miner’s vest and attaches to a miner’s belt; and the CCMER-C, a breathing module cached along the escape route that can be docked to the -B and -V versions. Human factors considerations are a key element in the CCMER design, as it is to be continually worn by the miner while underground, and must be readily accessible for deployment when needed. The CCMERs are designed to be capable of being certified to 42 CFR part 84 standards, including sub-part O for mine use, and to meet MSHA permissibility regulations for use in underground mines. They are sized for sufficient oxygen capacities (Cap 2 and Cap 3 as defined in sub-part O) to yield a duration that is of practical use in a mine escape scenario. INTRODUCTION The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Office of Mine Safety and Health Research (OMSHR) is leading the development of self-escape apparatuses to provide breathing gas to mining personnel operating in the event of an emergency in various capacities underground in environments containing hazardous gas components. The Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 (also known as the MINER Act) and input from the mining community called for the need to move Self-Contained Self-Rescuer (SCSR) technology to a next-generation status. In response to this need, NIOSH’s Office of Mine Safety and Health Research (OMSHR) established a strategic plan to develop key components and devices with help from external experts knowledgeable in breathing apparatus designs. The US Navy was identified as a key expert in this field through its extensive experience in diving apparatus and life support systems, and development work commenced through Inter-Agency Agreements with OMSHR. A contracts program was also launched with industry experts specializing in this field. This paper outlines the current status in developing the Next-Generation Closed-Circuit Mine Escape Respirators (CCMERs) that could be used for surviving and escaping from a mine following an emergency that renders the mine atmosphere irrespirable."