A refuge chamber is a shelter built to sustain life during an emergency of hazardous situation. They provide a secure area with shelter, water, and breathable air, where personnel can remain until rescued or the hazard subsides.
Refuge chambers form an essential part of the overall emergency response plan. When evacuation is not possible or necessary, they provide a safe and secure location to wait for the hazard to pass or rescue teams to arrive.
They are used in different scenarios including: truck fires, smoke, toxic gas release, blasting, minor rock falls, safety protocol and incident management. The main reason refuge chambers are used in underground mine is to enhance safety.
They are strategically located near active working areas and evacuation routes, allowing for quick and safe access during emergencies. These chambers are equipped with life-sustaining systems like breathable air, oxygen supply, and monitoring equipment, and are designed to be self-sufficient for a specified duration, typically 36-96 hours.
