Mines Commission work

Papers relating to the work James Bankart did for the government's Mines Commission.

In 1862 eight commissioners were appointed to inquire into the condition of all mines in Great Britain to which the provisions of the Mines Regulation and Inspection Act 1860 did not apply; and to suggest the most practicable means of improving the health and safety of persons employed in them. They reported on 4 July 1864. The Commissioners were unsalaried, but with the exception of the chairman, Lord Kinnaird, were allowed an allowance of one guinea a day for expenses when travelling out of London. The Secretaries, both of whom were appointed by the Commissioners, were awarded a salary of £400. The report condemned the poor air quality in metalliferous mines which was due to bad ventilation. It stated that poor air combined with the physical exertion of climbing up and down ladders and the dramatic change in temperatures on the surface and in the mine caused much sickness and shortening of life. Its recommendations included introducing mechaical means to convey men to and from the surface of deep mines and other ways of reducing the number of accidents.

1862

3 volumes, 1 file

Online catalogue.