Hazards of Coal Mineing?

Question

I have this project in school, for this movie October Sky, and i need to find out the Hazards of Coall Mineing. And what causes Black Lung diease. I also need to find out why coal mineing is so dangerous. I need it by Jauary 5 so PLEASE help me. I've tried Google and Yahoo Sarch but i need more info. And i want to give a good report. Thanks to everyone who helps me.

Answer 1

Cave-ins and explosions trap and kill people.

The coal can catch fire and burn for long periods of time.

The coal mine can fill with noxious gas, but slowly enough so the miners don't see that it's happening until too late (they used to take canaries down with them, and when the canary fainted, it was time to go -- canaries would faint sooner than people).

As you mentioned, black lung. Inhale fine coal dust for long periods of time, and it'll coat the inside of your lungs. Sort of like smoking, but moreso.

Answer 2

In all forms of mining the associated dust is hazardous. In coal mining it leads to black lung disease.
In any mine there is a risk of the roof of the mine collapsing - usually with fatal results for the poor devils underground.
Mines are usually in isolated areas, which makes it easier for unscrupulous managements to exploit the miners financially.
That last is, in real life, the worst problem

Answer 3

I see what you mean - the information is scattered many different places. Well, at least here is a start, re. black lung:

www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9818

Good Luck!

;-)