EXPLOSION IN MINE

Hokitika Guardian, 13 December 1929, Page 2

EXPLOSION IN MINE

ROYAL COMMISSION BEGINS ENQUIRY. INVERCARGILL, Dec. 11. At Ohai to-day the Royal Commission enquiring into the mining disaster on November 15th, commenced its sittings. The explosion resulted in the death of A. McCoy, R. J. Johnston, H. Ivitto, and J. Chamberlain. J. Robb and A. Pennock were seriously injured. The Commission consisted of Mr W. H. Woodward, S.M. (chairman), Mr J. Smeaton, miner, of Brunnerton, and Mr W. Carson, mine manager of Ivaitangata. The instructions to the Commission were: '■“To enquire in what part or parts of the mine the explosion first started, and the nature of the same; to enquire how the explosion was initiated ; to enquire to what extent the provisions of tne Local Minos Act, 1925, were complied with in the mine, and more especially as regards (a) examination of the mine, (b) ventilation, (c) lighting, (dj character of explosives used, preparation of shots and method of firing shots, (e) prevention and treatmdnt of infiainmable dust; to enquire into the nature and character of the general management of the mine, and whether the mine was well and safely managed; to enquire into the efficiency and inspection of mine; to enquire whether or not loss of life would have been averted or reduced had the services of a rescue brigade been available immediately after the explosion occurred; to make suggestions for prevention, as far as possible, of similar accidents; and generally to make enquiry into any matter dealing with the subjects of the enquiry, and to report whether any additional legislation is necessary for the prevention of similar accidents.” After making an inspection of the mine and hearing the evidence of several witnesses the Commission adjourned till to-morrow. It is expected that the enquiry will last several days.