Safety basics for coal handling
Published: 18 Mar 2024 | Category: Safety
Coal handling safety is not “optional”. Small negligence creates big incidents.
Scope and responsibility
Lotus Coal provides coordination support. Safety implementation is the responsibility of the facility operator, transporter, and site teams. This page is general awareness, not a legal or regulatory standard.
Key safety risks during handling
- Dust exposure: can impact respiratory health and visibility
- Fire risk: improper storage and ignition sources increase risk
- Vehicle movement: blind spots and unsafe reversing cause incidents
- Uncontrolled unloading: tipping hazards and spillage
Practical safety basics
1. Dust control awareness
- Use dust suppression practices where applicable
- Minimize high-drop unloading to reduce dust bursts
- Encourage mask usage in high-dust areas
2. Safe vehicle movement
- Follow site speed limits strictly
- Use a spotter when reversing in tight zones
- Maintain clear pedestrian separation where possible
3. Fire safety awareness
- Keep ignition sources away from storage areas
- Follow facility fire safety procedures
- Monitor storage for heat buildup where required
4. Controlled unloading
- Unload only in designated zones
- Follow site instructions for tipping and positioning
- Prevent spillage into vehicle movement lanes
Coordination actions that reduce risk
- Share site safety rules with transporter before dispatch
- Confirm unloading slot and entry requirements
- Encourage use of tarpaulin where required
- Reduce waiting time at gates to avoid congestion and unsafe movement
Read: Reducing spillage during transport Contact for coordination support