Herbert M. (Herbert Michael) Wilson
Transactions of the American Society of Civil Engineers, vol. LXX, Dec. 1910
Federal Investigations of Mine Accidents, Structural Materials and Fuels. Paper No. 1171
"Transactions of the American Society of Civil Engineers, vol. LXX, Dec. 1910" is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The document focuses on the outcomes of federal investigations into mine accidents, structural materials, and fuels, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in coal mining. It includes various technical discussions among engineers and prioritizes advancements intended to enhance the safety and efficiency of mining practices. The opening of this volume details the aftermath of the Cherry, Illinois mine disaster in 1909, where a significant number of miners were killed or trapped. This incident prompted a national call for improved safety investigations by the United States Geological Survey, leading to various efforts to understand and mitigate the risks of such disasters. The text outlines the scope of work completed by engineers, which includes examining the conditions leading to mine accidents, testing explosives, and developing advanced safety equipment for miners. The summary highlights the pressing need for effective safety measures and the ongoing investigations aimed at significantly reducing fatalities in the mining industry.