SHOT-FIRING. (Hansard, 26 February 1935)

§ 13. Mr. GRUNDY
asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the recommendation of the commissioner in the report of the Bilsthorpe inquiry that all men should be withdrawn from the face during shot-firing, he is prepared to issue instructions that this recommendation shall in future to put into operation?

§ Mr. E. BROWN
This recommendation was to the effect that, so far as practicable, shots in face-rippings should be fired either between shifts or after withdrawing the workmen from the face in question. The inspectors will use their influence to secure that this procedure is followed so far as possible but, as recognised by the author of the report referred to, it is not practicable to adopt or enforce such a procedure universally.

§ Mr. T. SMITH
Can the hon. Gentleman say whether colliery managers have been circularised on this matter?

§ Mr. BROWN
Perhaps the hon. Member would put down that question.

§ 14. Mr. GRUNDY
asked the Secretary for Mines whether he proposes issuing instructions to limit the number of shots to be fired by any one shotsman during one shift, thereby giving ample time for the shotsman to properly carry out the responsibilities imposed upon him by the Mines Act, 1911, and its regulations?

§ Mr. BROWN
Special investigations by His Majesty's inspectors are in progress as to the numbers of shots which, under different conditions, can properly be fired per shift by deputies and shot-firers, respectively; and I am considering whether it is possible to frame a rule to secure some definite limitations of number which shall be reasonable and effective having regard to the widely varying circumstances.

§ 15. Mr. GRUNDY
asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the increasing number of shots being fired in the coal mines of the country, particularly shots fired in the coal, he will take steps to ensure that shot-firing shall be reduced to a minimum by utilising other means of bringing down coal?

§ Mr. BROWN
The total number of shots fired in coal mines has decreased of recent years and there has been some increase in the use of mechanical and other substitutes for shot-firing. It is the practice of the inspectors to encourage the use of suitable alternatives where possible and this practice will be continued.