What type of fire safety equipment must be available in underground mines?

In underground mines, having fire extinguishers and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is crucial for ensuring the safety of miners. Fire extinguishers are essential for quickly addressing small fires before they escalate, while SCBA provides miners with breathable air in case of smoke or toxic gas exposure. The unique conditions of underground environments, such as limited visibility and the presence of various flammable materials, make having this equipment vital for immediate response to fire hazards.

While water hoses and gas masks, smoke detectors and alarm systems, as well as first aid kits and fire blankets are certainly important for safety, they do not specifically address the immediate needs in the case of a fire in a mine. Gas masks may not be suitable for the specific toxic conditions that can arise in an underground fire, and while smoke detectors are valuable, they are typically part of a broader safety system rather than direct fire-fighting equipment.