Mining is largely viewed as one of the most dangerous professions, but what many people fail to realize is that the safety concerns related to the practice vary considerably based on the substance being mined and the management of a particular location. Some mining claims are, believe it or not, relatively safe, while others present huge threats to their workers. The following are five of the most dangerous mining claims in the world:
Tampakan Mines
Located in the tri-boundaries of Davao del Sur, Sarangani and South Cotobato is Tampakan Mines, a claim thought by experts to be the most dangerous on Earth. The main hazard associated with Tampakan is the 2.7 billion tons of waste produced each year. Also problematic is the potential for induced seismic activity, which, combined with the waste, could prove catastrophic.
Machang Mine
China’s mines are well known for their lack of safety precautions, but Machang stands apart
even among these. A tragic colliery gas blast killed 25 employees and injured an additional 20 — and there is potential for similar incidents in the future.
Chuqui
While the rescue of 33 Chilean copper miners trapped underground brought smiles to faces all around the world, the majority of Chile’s mines remain exceptionally dangerous. Chuqui poses a threat in that it is both dangerous and large. Should an accident occur, dozens of lives could be lost instantaneously.
Liberty Processing
Operated by Massey Energy Property, Liberty Processing has been distinguished as one of the more dangerous American mines due to its high rate of contested violations by its operator. This rate suggests that the operator is not taking the steps necessary to ensure workers’ safety.
Vorkutinskaya
Russian coal mines have a bad history of emitting methane gas, and unfortunately, Vorkutinskaya is no exception. Multiple gas explosions have occurred in the past several years and there’s no indication that they are about to let up.
What the world’s most dangerous mines hold in common is a lack of regard for worker safety. Fortunately, there are plenty of other mines that are far safer than those detailed above.
