This report discusses the construction techniques, testing methods, and explosion test data collected for the pumpable cementitious seals; the seal, stopping, and overcast designs for the Australian program; and the Packsetter preloaded solid-concrete-block seal.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) conducted joint research to evaluate explosion blast effects on typical U.S. mine ventilation stoppings in the NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratory's (PRL) Lake Lynn Experimental Mine (LLEM). An innovative Australian-designed brattice stopping was also evaluated. NIOSH findings and recommendations are detailed.

At the request of the Mine safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety, and Training, the NIOSH's Pittsburgh Research Laboratory evaluated the effects of explosions on specific mine ventilation seals at its Lake Lynn Experimental Mine to assist the agencies in their investigations of the explosion at the Sago Mine in West Virginia, which occurred on January 2, 2006. Six full-scale explosion tests were conducted to help answer questions regarding possible scenarios for the Sago explosion. NIOSH's findings and recommendations are documented...

This publication details recommendations for a new rock dusting standard to prevent coal dust explosions in intake airways.