MSHA HANDBOOK SERIES - PH13-V-1 - Mine Safety and Health ...

GENERAL COAL MINE INSPECTION PROCEDURES AND
INSPECTION TRACKING SYSTEM HANDBOOK CHAPTER 5
Figure 5-1: Taking Timed Smoke Cloud Readings
Taking Readings - For best results, two people should work together (one at each
end of the measured distance).
a. The upstream person breaks off both ends of the chemical smoke tube and inserts
one end into the rubber tubing of the aspirator bulb. Wear gloves when breaking
off the tube ends and using smoke tubes to prevent serious cuts. Also wear eye
protection when breaking off the ends of the smoke tube. Provisions are usually
provided in the box or container to break tube ends cleanly. Do not dispose of
used tubes in travelways.
b. The upstream person holds the aspirator bulb and smoke tube away from
his/her body. Squeeze the aspirator bulb to force air through the glass tube
which contains the smoke-generating chemical (only a small puff of smoke is
necessary).
c. Release the smoke perpendicular to the airstream (facing the mine rib). When
the upstream person signals release of the smoke cloud, the downstream person
Release 1 (February 2013) 5-5