According to the plot of the case, on October 28, 2023, at about 02:44, the first explosion caused by the ignition of a methane-air mixture occurred in the underground sewage workings at a depth of 700 meters. This explosion caused subsequent explosions of coal dust through the mine tunnels, which led to the death of 46 miners (33 from gross anatomical destruction of skeletal bones, 13 from carbon monoxide poisoning) and injury to 28 miners.
“The initial explosion (leading to the death of 14 miners) occurred from the ignition of a methane-air mixture at the coal mining site No. 6 of longwall 48k3-west, which led to subsequent numerous explosions formed from the ignition of coal dust in the mine tunnels (leading to the death of another 32 miners). The propagation range of the explosions was about 6 km – from lava No. 48k3-west to lava No. 42k2-east,” the report says.
Prosecutors found that the mine’s engineering staff and management failed to adequately control hazards, investigate incidents, and fail to implement dust and explosion protection measures. The fire and explosions occurred due to the ignition of methane gas and poor organization of work.
The causes of the fire and explosion were:
– In the 48k3-west longwall due to the ignition of methane gas released from the underlying K2 formation due to a mechanical spark due to the impact and friction of the scraper on the elements of the scraper conveyor;
– Due to the explosion in the goaf (not the working area) of the lava 48k3-west methane mixture from the spread of methane combustion.
– Due to explosions of methane mixture, bringing coal dust located in hard-to-reach places behind the support of mine workings into a suspended state with subsequent explosions of the gas-dust-air mixture.
Based on the results of the investigation, 10 suspects were brought to criminal liability under Article 277 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Violation of safety rules during mining operations,” nine of whom are in custody.
Among them:
Sergey Mustivko (mine director, is obliged to ensure the maintenance of mine workings in trouble-free condition, compliance by mine personnel with industrial and fire safety rules, timely repair of equipment and monitor compliance with coal mining technology);
Nikolay Groznov (chief engineer of the mine, is obliged to control the engineering support of production, determine the category of the mine in terms of gas, explosiveness of dust, danger of formations in terms of sudden emissions, check the state of industrial safety);
Vadim Eremin (Deputy Director for Production, is obliged to constantly monitor technological processes, ensure the safe and reliable operation of mine equipment, organize the elimination of violations of safety rules and technologies, check the state of industrial safety and labor protection);
Dmitry Fedorenko (deputy chief engineer for safety, is obliged to organize and monitor safety work at the mine, conduct industrial safety checks, identify unacceptable and dangerous risks at the mine, supervises the work of the ventilation section);
Shishkanov V.V. (the head of the ventilation and safety department is obliged to ensure the reliability of ventilation and gas conditions in the mine, to develop measures for ventilation, degassing, gas suction, to combat coal dust, to prevent and localize coal dust explosions);
Pestryak V.Yu. (the assistant to the head for dust explosion protection of the ventilation and safety department is obliged to ensure the timely implementation of measures to combat coal dust and dust explosion protection);
Viktor Koptenkov (head of section No. 6, where the accident began, is obliged to maintain the condition of ventilation, dust and gas conditions, fire extinguishing equipment, rescue of people, ensure full implementation of measures to combat dust, sudden emissions and underground fire);
Gabdushev T.Kh. (the head of the conveyor transport section is obliged to ensure dust and explosion protection measures at the site, cleaning, slurrying, and moistening of coal dust);
Gonnochenko V.V. (deputy chief engineer for excavation, acted as chief engineer, was obliged to control the engineering support of production, determine the category of the mine in terms of gas, dust explosiveness, the danger of formations in terms of sudden emissions, check the state of industrial safety);
Kotsar D.S. (the chief mechanic of the mine was recognized as a suspect based on the results of the investigation, the preventive measure was a written undertaking not to leave the place. They were not provided with control and proper performance of their duties for the safe conduct of mining operations on mine equipment).
74 people were recognized as victims: relatives of 46 dead miners and 28 surviving miners who were injured.
The criminal case contains 120 volumes of materials, video and audio recordings of investigative actions. After the suspects have completed their review of the case, they will be sent to court through the supervising prosecutor.
2024-10-31 10:37:00
Title: The Tragedy in Kazakhstan’s Mines: An In-Depth Discussion with Safety Expert Dr. Elena Petrov
Interviewer: John Muller, Editor at Time.news
Guest: Dr. Elena Petrov, Mining Safety Expert
John Muller: Welcome, Dr. Petrov. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent tragic events in the coal mine in Kazakhstan.
Dr. Elena Petrov: Thank you for having me, John. It’s indeed a tragic event that has shaken the mining community and highlighted critical safety issues.
John Muller: On October 28, 2023, a catastrophic explosion occurred at a mine, resulting in the deaths of 46 miners. Can you share your thoughts on how such a disaster could happen in today’s mining industry?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Absolutely. The core issue here lies in the combination of methane gas ignition and the presence of coal dust. The report indicates that the initial explosion was triggered by a mixture of methane gas and a mechanical spark, which is alarming. This suggests a breakdown in both hazard control and risk management practices.
John Muller: It seems that the investigation pointed out significant faults by the mine’s management. Specifically, how crucial is the role of leadership in maintaining safety standards?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Leadership is absolutely vital. The mine director, Sergey Mustivko, alongside the chief engineer and other senior personnel, are responsible for ensuring the safety protocols are not just in place but actively adhered to. Unfortunately, their failure to monitor and implement necessary safety measures directly contributed to this disaster.
John Muller: Can you elaborate on the engineering failures that were reported? What should have been done differently?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Certainly. There were failures in monitoring methane levels and controlling dust explosions. Mines require continuous monitoring of gas concentrations and proper ventilation to mitigate risks. It indicates poor organizational practices and an insufficient safety culture. Regular training and emergency drills should also be mandatory to prepare workers for such incidents.
John Muller: The report mentions that explosive conditions magnified because of coal dust in hard-to-reach areas. What safety measures could help to prevent dust accumulation and mitigate these risks?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Control of coal dust is crucial. Implementing effective ventilation systems, regular cleaning protocols, and using dust suppression agents can significantly reduce the risk. Additionally, ensuring that workers are trained to identify and address dust-related hazards can help mitigate such dangers before they lead to catastrophic failures.
John Muller: Following the incident, criminal charges were brought against ten individuals for violations of safety rules. What are the implications of this for the industry?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Holding individuals accountable sends a strong message to the industry about the importance of compliance with safety regulations. It highlights the need for a cultural shift in how mining companies prioritize safety over production goals. If leadership recognizes that negligence can lead to severe consequences, we may see improved safety standards.
John Muller: Given the global trend toward sustainable mining, do you think this incident will influence policy changes in Kazakhstan and beyond?
Dr. Elena Petrov: I sincerely hope so. Such tragedies often serve as catalysts for change. Policymakers may feel pressured to enhance regulations surrounding mining safety and to increase funding for safety technologies. This could set a precedent not only in Kazakhstan but also for other mining sectors globally.
John Muller: What final thoughts do you want to share regarding the safety of miners?
Dr. Elena Petrov: Every miner goes into the pit with the right to work safely. Investing in a robust safety culture and adhering to strict regulations is non-negotiable. The tragic loss of lives must serve as a reminder that safety cannot be an afterthought; it must be a priority.
John Muller: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for your insights. It’s vital that we continue to discuss and advocate for mining safety, especially in the wake of such tragedies.
Dr. Elena Petrov: It’s been my pleasure, John. Thank you for bringing attention to this critical issue.
John Muller: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay safe and informed.