Why dont coal miners carry more oxygen for emergencies?
The self rescue oxygen units all underground miners carry provide enough clean air for about one hour, depending on how theyre used. They are designed for a quick escape and not to sustain a person for long periods. Larger oxygen canisters are cumbersome and would not be practical for miners to carry on their person. New legislation proposed by Gov. Manchin and passed by the West Virginia Legislature requires reserve oxygen and emergency supplies within underground mines.
