Mine rescue teams from across Manitoba gathered two hours northeast of Winnipeg to compete in realistic mine rescue scenarios under Bernic Lake, 200 feet below ground. The competition, held over two days in May, featured four teams – one from each of the three active mining operations in the province and one team comprising two members from each mine. The teams participated in simulations that tested their skills in inspecting and maintaining safety gear, applying first aid, and conducting below-ground rescues. Greg Bellin, a site shift supervisor at Tanco Mine, emphasized the importance of these competitions in testing and refining their skills to ensure they are prepared for real-life emergencies.
During the competition, teams were observed by judges who evaluated their technique, skills, patient handling, problem-solving abilities, and how they dealt with challenges along the way. Craig Kulbaba, the designer of this year’s underground rescue scenario, highlighted the challenge of anticipating the different ways in which teams may address obstacles. Despite the varied approaches taken by different teams, the competition serves as a valuable training ground for competitors to hone their abilities and ensure they are ready to respond effectively in the event of a mine emergency. Matt Johnson, the general manager of Tanco Mine, noted that the competition also helps build stronger relationships between the mine, its employees, and the communities they operate in, fostering a positive and healthy partnership among all stakeholders involved.
For Bellin, who has been participating in mine rescue competitions for over a decade, the opportunity to put his training into practice is invaluable. He stressed the importance of ensuring that their training is effective and efficient in dealing with emergencies specifically in the mining industry. By participating in competitions like this, Bellin and his fellow team members can fine-tune their skills and strategies, giving them an edge in real-life situations where quick and effective responses are essential. These competitions serve as a way to validate the teams’ training and readiness, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and strengthen their overall preparedness.
The judges at the competition evaluate the teams based on a variety of criteria, including their handling of patients, problem-solving abilities, and overall approach to the rescue scenarios. Kulbaba highlighted the importance of creating scenarios that challenge the teams and require them to think critically and creatively in order to solve the problem. By presenting obstacles that may have multiple solutions, the competition tests the teams’ adaptability and decision-making skills, preparing them to handle the unpredictable nature of real-life mine emergencies. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the teams are not only technically proficient but also capable of navigating complex and evolving situations with confidence and competence.
In addition to the practical benefits of the competition, Johnson emphasized the importance of building relationships and fostering a positive atmosphere within the mining industry. By bringing together teams from different mines and encouraging collaboration and camaraderie, the competition serves as a platform for strengthening connections and mutual support among industry professionals. This community-building aspect of the competition helps create a network of resources and expertise that can be crucial in times of crisis, promoting a culture of safety, teamwork, and resilience within the mining sector. Overall, the competition offers a valuable opportunity for mine rescue teams to enhance their skills, build relationships, and ensure that they are well-equipped to respond effectively to emergencies in the challenging environment of underground mines.
