Report of the Bureau of Mines of the Department of Internal Affairs of ...

378 REPORT OF THE INSPECTORS OF MINES. Off. Doc.
Tlie adoption of such improvements in the plans of mining as we
have mentioned, has brought some of our operations very nearly to the
point of being model collieries, and it is a fact that in these cases the
cost of mining has been reduced to the minimum, while the miners'
wages have not been affected, and the safety and sanitary condition
of the mines have been greatly improved. I am pleased to state that
in this class of mines an unusual degree of interest is being taken in
providing good ventilation for the men—something which is just as
necessary to the successful operation of a mine as steam in a boiler
is to the running of machinery. Yet there are thousands of dollars
spent at some mines for the purpose of increasing the production,
without an}' effort being made to provide more air for the increased
number of men necessary to raise the output. This is a great mistake.
Let good ventilation first be provided for; then the mine will
be in condition to be developed economically and safely.
However, we believe that a new era in the history of mining has
dawned within the past few years, during which greater advancement
has been made than in any similar period in the past. Now,
the men who cling to the old fogy ideas of mining are no longer
required, and to fill their places men of advanced ideas are being
sought. The law, progress and humanity demand that to such
must be committed not only the economical operations of the plants
connected with the great industry, but, to a great extent, the health
and safety of the many thousands who toil beneath the ground.
DESCRIPTION OF MINES.
Johnstown District.
There are four mines located in this district, namely: ''Rolling
Mill," "Haws' Shaft," "Gautier No. 3" and "Conemaugh."
The first named is one of the largest in this inspection district.
The sanitary condition is fairly good, as every precaution is taken by
those in charge to prevent accidents and to insure, as far as practicable,
the health and comfort of th« employes. It is, however, one
of the most difficult mines in the district to keep properly ventilated,
as the fan is
so far away from the workings and the air has to be
forced through so much of the old worked out places that it
the greatest vigilance on the part of those in charge.
re(iuires
I expect, before
another annual report is made, to see a new fan placed hero, near tlie
face of the mine.
"Haws' shaft," 'Miaulier" and "Conemaugh'' mines arv in lirsl class
condition as regards ventilation, drainage and safety. The two
former are ventilated by fans, and the latter by a furnace. A
visit to either of these workings is always a pleasun*. Years of experience
in examining these mines have given me assuiance thai
part of the law is being violated.
no