During 1990 through 1996, over 200 roof and rib accidents occurred during roof testing and scaling. To safely conduct a roof evaluation and examination, these practices should be followed:
- Know your immediate roof (from the roof control plan).
- Be aware of geological features in the area.
- Constantly observe and test the roof for adverse conditions.
- Always make a visual examination of the area before testing or scaling the roof. If hazardous conditions are observed, testing is not required.
- Wear safety glasses when sounding the roof.
- Keep all lines of communication open with all coworkers regarding adverse roof and rib conditions.
- When a hazard is observed, eliminate the condition as soon as possible; do not depend on others.
- If the roof or ribs are hazardous, support them or remove the hazard by pulling down the hazardous material.
- Always stand under supported top when scaling and testing roof.
- Use proper equipment, such as a scaling bar of sufficient length, when scaling roof. (PryUp,NotDown!)
- To prevent hand injuries while using a scaling bar, one method is to slip a piece of water hose about half way onto the bar. If material being pried down slides down the bar, it is deflected away fromt he hands.
- Communicate with the roof bolter operator about the condition of the roof he/she has been drilling so adverse roof can be identified.
- Frequently use test hole information for roof evaluation.