Environmental risk assessment of lignite storage in the mining industry: Strategies for hazard mitigation

This study evaluates risk factors in the mining industry, focusing on environmental hazards linked to lignite storage in bunker yards. Through SPSS analysis and employee feedback, it identified environmental risks as the most critical, with a mean risk rating of 3.82, emphasizing their high priority in risk management. The research notes significant environmental concerns with lignite storage, including large heaps prone to spontaneous combustion and hazardous gas emissions like carbon monoxide. Given carbon monoxide’s severe health risks, effective management is essential. Event Tree Analysis (ETA) using RAM Commander software revealed a high probability (P=0.507) of major environmental challenges. To address this, the study suggests introducing CO2 into coal storage areas to control toxic gas emissions and reduce spontaneous combustion risk, thereby maintaining the coal’s Net Calorific Value (NCV) and Gross Calorific Value (GCV). Additionally, the study examines the social and environmental impacts of land acquisition for mining, recommending the use of uncultivable land and underground mining techniques to minimize community displacement and land-related risks. In alignment with IS 14000 environmental management standards, the study supports these strategies and continuous ETA monitoring to enhance safety and reduce adverse environmental and community impacts.