Helping underground miners escape safely during emergencies
Research, Technological Innovations and Human Factors for Effective Miner Self-Escape from Underground Mine Emergencies
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11419438
New tools, training, and safety procedures to help underground miners get out safely during fires, explosions, or other emergencies.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11419438 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If I work underground, this project will test new wireless communication systems, robots, and rescue procedures using lab tests, mine-site drills, and simulator exercises. Researchers will study how people interact with robots and safety devices, and they will test how refuge chambers and escape routes perform under blast and fire scenarios. The team will also analyze risks from lithium-ion battery vehicle fires and develop best practices to reduce those risks. Finally, experienced trainers will teach mine safety personnel using a "train-the-trainer" model so lessons can be shared across mines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are active underground miners, mine safety personnel, or trained volunteers who can take part in drills, simulations, and human-factors testing at participating sites.
Not a fit: People who do not work underground or who cannot take part in hands-on drills (for medical or geographic reasons) are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lower injuries and deaths by improving communication, escape options, and emergency training for miners.
How similar studies have performed: Previous miner-safety training and communication upgrades have improved outcomes, but combining underground wireless systems, human-robot interaction, and battery-fire response is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
ROLLA, UNITED STATES
- MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY — ROLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FRIMPONG, SAMUEL — MISSOURI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: FRIMPONG, SAMUEL
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.