Continuous Mining Machine Operators

Hang ventilation tubing and ventilation curtains to ensure that the mining face area is kept properly ventilated.

Conduct methane gas checks to ensure breathing quality of air.

Check the stability of roof and rib support systems before mining face areas.

Operate mining machines to gather coal and convey it to floors or shuttle cars.

Drive machines into position at working faces.

Move controls to start and regulate movement of conveyors and to start and position drill cutters or torches.

Reposition machines to make additional holes or cuts.

Determine locations, boundaries, and depths of holes or channels to be cut.

Install casings to prevent cave-ins.

Observe and listen to equipment operation to detect binding or stoppage of tools or other equipment malfunctions.

Scrape or wash conveyors, using belt scrapers or belt washers, to minimize dust production.

Move levers to raise and lower hydraulic safety bars supporting roofs above machines until other workers complete framing.

Repair, oil, and adjust machines, and change cutting teeth, using wrenches.

Apply new technologies developed to minimize the environmental impact of coal mining.

Guide and assist crews laying track and resetting supports and blocking.