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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

I. DESCRIPTION OF THE COLLIERY
The Main Band Seam
Firedamp
Electrical Layout in No. 2 District

II. CONDITIONS LEADING UP TO THE EXPLOSION
Inspection by Shotfirer
Removal of No. 3 fan to a new position
No tests made of electrical apparatus
Discovery of and measures taken to disperse gas in Nos. 2 and 3 Headings

III. NARRATIVE OF THE EXPLOSION
Rescue and Recovery Operations

IV. CAUSE OF THE EXPLOSION
Shot-firing
Electric Cap Lamps
Flame Safety Lamps
Cause of the Accumulation of Firedamp

V. OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Ventilation
Maintenance
Cables and Switchgear

APPENDIX I. List of Witnesses

APPENDIX II. Particulars of Persons killed and injured

APPENDIX III. Report by Mr. A. E. Crook, H.M. Mechanical Engineering Inspector of Mines, on examination of No. 3 Aerex Fan

PLATE 1.	View of part of damaged fairing, fan pulley and the two belts in 1 Nos. 2 and 3 grooves
2.	View of ends of the two broken belts which occupied Nos. 4 and 5 grooves prior to the explosion
3.	View showing it was impossible to put belts in the fifth and sixth grooves
4.	View showing it was possible to put a belt in the fourth groove
5.	Front view of fan, belts and fairing, showing the damage and variation in the depression caused by the rotating nut
6.	Side view of fairing, showing damage and variation in the depression caused by the rotating nut and reduction of clearance for belt drive
7.	Inside view of fairing, showing damage and bright rubbing marks caused by the rotating nut
8.	Front view of fan pulley and nut, showing bright rubbing marks on the rotating nut

PLAN No. 1 — Workings in Main Band No. 2 District Explosion Area
PLAN No. 2 — Ventilation in Main Band No. 2 District
PLAN No. 3 — Electrical Circuit in Main Band No. District