Ground Control in Coal Mines in Great Britain

In deep coal mining support of the underground roadway is fundamental and without knowledge of the mechanics of ground control a mine is unlikely to be operating safely and efficiently. It is therefore important for the support system to be designed satisfactorily for the size of the excavation required and to do so an understanding of the behaviour of the surrounding strata is required. Over the last 15 years there has been a major change in the mining industry and the support systems adopted. Roofbolting has been adopted as the primary support system, the industry has been privatised, legislation has been updated, a comprehensive research programme has been carried out and guidance documents produced