1 of 31 of 3 Items

Question
How are the health impacts of surface mining different from those of underground mining?(1 point)
Responses

lower risk of hearing loss in surface mining
lower risk of hearing loss in surface mining

higher risk of lung disease in surface mining
higher risk of lung disease in surface mining

higher risk of mine collapse in surface mining
higher risk of mine collapse in surface mining

lower risk of miner injuries in surface mining

lower risk of miner injuries in surface mining

Which risks are involved in both underground mining and surface mining? Select the two correct answers.(1 point)

Responses

methane gas buildup
methane gas buildup

ground instability
ground instability

high water pressure
high water pressure

respiratory disease
respiratory disease

UV exposure
UV exposure

ground instability and respiratory disease

3 of 33 of 3 Items

Question
Which health and safety risk is associated with tailings dams?(1 point)
Responses

Tailings dams are a common site of rock bursts.
Tailings dams are a common site of rock bursts.

If the dam fails, it can cause a methane explosion.
If the dam fails, it can cause a methane explosion.

If the dam fails, it can cause a flood of toxic materials.
If the dam fails, it can cause a flood of toxic materials.

Tailings dams are a common site of drowning accidents.
Tailings dams are a common site of drowning accidents.

If the dam fails, it can cause a flood of toxic materials.

Wrong

I'm sorry, can you please provide the correct answer?

Just kidding

Okay, no problem. Let me know if you have any other questions.

To determine how the health impacts of surface mining differ from those of underground mining, we need to compare the risks associated with each type of mining.

1. Lower risk of hearing loss in surface mining: One potential health impact of mining is hearing loss. Underground mining typically involves noisy underground environments, such as drilling, blasting, and machinery operation, which can lead to hearing damage over time. On the other hand, surface mining operations generally create less noise, which reduces the risk of hearing loss compared to underground mining.

2. Higher risk of lung disease in surface mining: Another health concern in mining is the risk of lung diseases, such as pneumoconiosis (commonly known as "black lung disease"). In surface mining, the process involves the removal of overburden, which exposes the underlying mineral seams. This can release various particles, including dust and potentially harmful pollutants, into the air. As a result, surface miners may face a higher risk of inhaling these particles and developing respiratory diseases.

3. Higher risk of mine collapse in surface mining: While mine collapse can occur in both underground and surface mining, the risk may be higher in underground mining due to the nature of the excavation process. Underground mining involves tunnels and shafts, which can be susceptible to collapsing if proper support structures are not in place. In surface mining, the primary method is open-pit mining, where the mine is excavated in an open area. However, in certain cases, surface mining operations may encounter unstable geological conditions that can lead to slope failures and land subsidence, potentially leading to mine collapse.

4. Lower risk of miner injuries in surface mining: Surface mining typically involves larger-scale machinery and equipment, which often results in higher safety standards compared to underground mining. The use of advanced technology and safety measures helps in reducing the risks of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the open and visible nature of surface mining operations can provide better visibility and communication, further reducing the likelihood of accidents.

In summary, the health impacts of surface mining differ from those of underground mining. Surface mining generally has a lower risk of hearing loss and miner injuries. However, surface mining poses a higher risk of lung diseases due to the exposure to airborne particles, and there can be an increased risk of mine collapse in certain cases. It's important to note that the specific risks and impacts can vary depending on the location, type of mining, and safety practices in place.