Underground Mine Refuge Stations,

Tunnels and Other Underground Infrastructure

Backgrounders

After the workshops held in 2023 in Portugal and Spain on Chambers of Refuge, questions and doubts emerged raised by mine managers, safety managers and specialized technicians in relation to Refuge Stations. This has led to the need to answer and clarify certain key points.

What is a Refuge Station?

A Refuge Station is a safe space inside a mine or tunnel designed to protect workers during emergencies. These stations are equipped with:

• Breathable air sources.
• Electrical energy.
• Drinking water.
• Sufficient food to ensure survival until external conditions stabilize or rescue operations are carried out.

Key Features

• Versatility: Unlike the Chambers of Refuge, the Stations take advantage of existing spaces, such as dining rooms, offices or workshops, that are adapted for use in emergencies. Specific spaces can also be designed and built for this purpose.
• Economy: Leveraging existing infrastructure significantly reduces costs compared to acquiring new cameras.
• International examples: In countries such as Canada and the United States, it is common to have several Refuge Stations in a single operation. In addition, some countries already have specific regulations on this subject.

Situation in Portugal and Spain

• Absence of regulation: Currently, there are no regulations that require the installation of shelter equipment (cameras or stations) in underground mines.
• Current reality: Despite the lack of legal requirements, in the Iberian Peninsula there are already several dozen shelter chambers installed by various manufacturers, both in mining operations and in tunnels.

Why consider Refuge Stations?

The installation of Refuge Stations is a solution:

• • Viable: It complies with international safety standards, provided that the geotechnical stability of the installation site is guaranteed.
  • Fast and efficient: It adapts quickly to operational needs and available spaces.
  • Safe and certified: It uses installed equipment that meets the requirements to ensure air supply and renewal, as well as other essential needs.

EASTAV and its Role in this Area

EASTAV, in collaboration with UPMs, offers comprehensive services for the implementation of Refuge Stations, including:

• Preliminary studies.
• Comprehensive project design.
• Supply of equipment, installation, start-up, inspections and technical assistance.
  These services apply both to new operations and to existing infrastructures in underground mines and other facilities.

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