In the first planned rescue operation using the new Drager BG ProAir apparatuses, twenty trained rescue workers from the KWK Pniówek Rescue Station took part in the opening, ventilation and penetration of the temporarily sealed off N-9 roadway in seams 404/4 and 405/1, as well as the N-23 ascending drift. During the operation, the rescue workers tested the new equipment under difficult conditions.
- When traversing narrow passages and performing work in high temperatures and high humidity, the breathing apparatuses performed well. Positive pressure in the system increases safety and improves breathing comfort. In addition, the breathing apparatus straps evenly distribute the weight, allowing one to move steadily and confidently with the apparatus on. The advantages also include quick and efficient control by the rescue worker and team leader, and much better visibility in the mask - team leader Łukasz Kwaśniewski concluded after the operation.
Positive feedback is also coming from emergency equipment mechanics, who emphasize the easy operation of the new apparatuses.
- They are intuitive and easy to maintain, do not require tools, and the ability to reuse them is invaluable during rescue operations - said Damian Kozłowski, first mechanic of the rescue station at KWK Pniówek.
Upon completion of the task, the new apparatuses were provided to the A-shift duty teams responsible for the daily security of the mine operations.
- The KWK Pniówek Rescue Station has been equipped with 70 new BG ProAir apparatuses, including FPS 7000 RP full-face masks and inspection instruments.Prior to putting the apparatuses into service, all rescue equipment mechanics were trained and certified to provide training to other members of the rescue team - says Jarosław Foks, head of the KWK Pniówek Mine Rescue Station, and adds: - Each rescue worker undergoes a two-stage training under the supervision of a certified mechanic, which consists of a theoretical part and a practical part, conducted in an exercise chamber or in underground workings.
After a long wait, all Mine Rescue Stations at JSW SA mines have been equipped with modern Drager BG ProAir positive-pressure self-rescuers, replacing the time-worn W70 models. Now all rescue workers at JSW have uniform, high-tech equipment. It is worth noting that the purchase of 435 Drager BG ProAir breathing apparatuses is the largest deal of its kind in Europe, and JSW's rescue workers are the first in European mining to use such modern equipment.
