Improving safety for miners during emergencies

Research, Technological Innovations and Human Factors for Effective Miner Self-Escape from Underground Mine Emergencies

NIH-funded research Missouri University of Science & Technology · NIH-11142297

This study is all about making mining safer during emergencies by creating better communication tools, training programs, and safety measures, so miners can confidently escape dangerous situations and work alongside robots when needed.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMissouri University of Science & Technology NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11142297 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the safety of miners during emergencies by developing new technologies and training programs. It includes advancements in underground wireless communication, studying how humans and robots can work together for safe self-escape, and evaluating safety mechanisms for refuge alternatives during explosions. The project also addresses the risks associated with lithium-ion battery electric vehicle fires and aims to train mine safety personnel effectively. By integrating these areas, the research seeks to empower miners with the tools and knowledge needed for safe self-escape.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are miners and mine safety personnel who may face emergencies in underground settings.

Not a fit: Patients who work in non-mining industries or those not involved in underground operations may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risks and improve survival rates for miners during emergencies.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on mine safety, this approach integrating technology and human factors is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Rolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.