People's weirs practice in Bad Bleiberg: Security in focus

People's weirs practice in Bad Bleiberg: Security in focus

On October 10, 2024, the main exercise of the mine weirs in Bad Bleiberg will take place, an important event for the underground rescue and security work in Austria. After several years, this exercise is now held in the Hochtal. The participants include all mines in the country and team from Bavaria, Saxony and a unity of the Federal Army.

The exercise begins at around 12 noon in the show mine, which prepares the mine weirs for a realistic emergency. Michael Heilmeier, the head of the main office for the mine rescue and gas protection system in Döbriach, emphasizes: "These exercises are crucial to strengthen the cooperation between the different weirs. Our mining companies are often small, so that the exchange and teamwork are of particular importance."

active mining in Austria

mining plays an important role in our region because valuable raw materials and salts are broken down. Around 100 underground companies exist in Austria, with the show mines, such as the Terra Mystica in Bad Bleiberg. Heilmeier explains: "We also look after the OBIir Tropststein cave in Carinthia, which is considered a mining company. In an incident, we would be asked to act." Interesting detail on the side: In fact, mining is usually certain, even if it comes to operations every now and then. "In terms of security, it is often more dangerous on the street," he adds.

In order to optimize the processes during the main exercise, the incoming times of the mine weirs will be announced beforehand. In addition, a specialist conference will take place on October 11, which deals with the various aspects of the mine rescue. This conference in the VIVEA Hotel Bad Bleiberg is free of charge and starts at 9 a.m.

a strong network

The need for such exercises has grown over the years. "We have been strengthening the cooperation for over 20 years in order to be able to react optimally in an emergency," explains Heilmeier. The mine weirs need a coordinated reaction in emergencies, since the number of squads is limited in the often smaller mining companies.

Overall, the event is not only a further step to improve safety precautions, but also an opportunity to exchange expert knowledge and experiences. More information on the topic provides current reports at www.meinbezirk.at .