A miner issue

**Winston001** · 20th November 2010, 18:28

This is bloody awful. Last night I thought the miners would be reached in short order. Its a straight(ish) tunnel, not a deep shaft. Now.......I'm not so sure.

Does anyone understand the problems? I'd have thought rescuers could rush in wearing breathing gear and at least establish if the roof has breached or contact the men. But clearly I know nothing about such things.

Anyone??

**JimO** · 20th November 2010, 18:30

i think the main problem is causing another gas explosion

**Genestho** · 20th November 2010, 18:40

My take is:

They say there's inconclusive levels of Methane Ethane and Carbon Monoxide.

Three ingredients must be present to sustain a fire.
There must be fuel present (something that can burn), an oxidiser and an ignition source.

The oxygen in the air can be the oxidiser.

The ignition source might be a nearby fire, or sparks generated by friction, or from static electricity.

So I figure this is the problem, as soon as it's opened up it could go boom.

They have to make sure the gases are at acceptable levels to make sure it doesn't go off, to get everyone in and out safe. (Including the rescue team)

**onearmedbandit** · 20th November 2010, 18:44

My thoughts with all involved.

We are all quick to blame the media, but we are the ones turning the TV on and watching and buying the newspapers. Doesn't excuse them twisting the facts, but we stand by apathetically lining their pockets.

**Edbear** · 20th November 2010, 19:05

Originally Posted by onearmedbandit

My thoughts with all involved.

We are all quick to blame the media, but we are the ones turning the TV on and watching and buying the newspapers. Doesn't excuse them twisting the facts, but we stand by apathetically lining their pockets.

Unfortunately it's the only way we can know anything and those of us with half a brain are waiting for actual news to come through and trying not to shoot the TV in the meantime...

**Okey Dokey** · 20th November 2010, 20:38

Our thoughts are with the miners and their loved ones, all day and through tonight, too.

**Maha** · 21st November 2010, 09:31

Originally Posted by Edbear

Unfortunately it's the only way we can know anything and those of us with half a brain are waiting for actual news to come through and trying not to shoot the TV in the meantime...

Emotions seem to creep in after a short while of nothingness Ed.
By that I mean, if there is little or no progress, things are said by those on the spot that can be regretted at a later date. If you know what I mean.

**Edbear** · 21st November 2010, 09:39

Yup, esp when reporters are trying to fill in time. Watched the interviews this morning with the local authorities and they were being sensible and offering good advice and were very open. They also criticised some media and public for being less than helpful with some comments.

**schrodingers cat** · 21st November 2010, 10:54

Why don't the reporters get back on the interweb to gather up some infoitainment to pad out the sports reports like they usually do?
They can practice their grave expressions and cliches off screen while the people who know what they are doing look after things

**PrincessBandit** · 21st November 2010, 11:21

Mining communities must live with this possible tragedy continually. That is not to say I minimise what they're going through, but events like this must be something they are always aware of.

Personally I hope that all the men are alive and well, waiting patiently for rescue. Loved ones anxiously awaiting their exodus out are surely aware of the foolhardiness of a fast but ill-prepared attempt.

Whatever the outcome, good or bad, it is always the waiting and uncertainty that is hardest. I am sure that prayers are being said for the community around the country right now.

**fuknKIWI** · 21st November 2010, 20:38

Originally Posted by Okey Dokey

Our thoughts are with the miners and their loved ones, all day and through tonight, too.

+1
The waiting is the hardest part, just like the song says.

**Urano** · 21st November 2010, 20:39

well, someone was curious...
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/sh...ghlight=miners

now, all the best to those guys and the families.
kinda hard times in south island lately...

**twinbruva** · 21st November 2010, 20:43

Originally Posted by Genie

You're always bagging poor wee reefton, it has the countries bestest skatepark and it's boasts a lotto winner or two. beautiful countryside, the quiet life...and the roads for riding around...hmmm.
I get it now, you is jealous that you have to live way the hell up there and you miss out on all the fun down this way. Stop picking on little wee Reefton.

Reefton? WTF? It sucks. Plain and simple.