An underground mining ventilation fan inspection checklist is essential for ensuring mine safety and equipment efficiency. Regular inspections help prevent ventilation failures and reduce safety risks. This article outlines a complete checklist covering mechanical parts, safety systems, rules and procedures, and machine room facilities—all focused on underground mining ventilation fans.

1. Mechanical Components Inspection

A reliable underground mining ventilation fan must have all mechanical parts in perfect condition:

All components must be complete, with no visible damage.

The main fan must perform at no less than 90% of its rated efficiency.

Two main fans should have equal power; both must be operational within 10 minutes.

No air leakage from the casing or dampers; proper anti-corrosion treatment is required.

Technical assessment should be done annually; full performance testing is required every five years. Key parts like blades and shafts need yearly flaw detection with documented analysis.

2. Safety and Protection Measures

Proper safety setups are crucial in underground mining ventilation fan systems:

Reversible air systems must change airflow direction within 10 minutes. A full reversal test is required once a year.

Monthly fan switching and inspection must be performed.

All exposed rotating and powered parts must have barriers and warning signs.

Instruments like pressure gauges, voltmeters, ammeters, and thermometers must be accurate and tested yearly.

Dual power sources must be available, each from separate transformers and busbars, with no additional loads on the circuit.

The power system should have clear schematics and calculations. Overcurrent and short-circuit protection must be reliable, and all equipment should be well-grounded.

Backup UPS power systems must undergo charge/discharge testing and meet operational standards.

3. Compliance with Rules and Documentation

Proper regulation ensures long-term safety of underground mining ventilation fan systems:

Key protocols such as responsibility assignments, shift procedures, maintenance schedules, emergency plans, and inspection routines must be visibly posted.

Important logs and records should be maintained, including shift logs, inspection records, repair logs, and test documentation.

Technical files must include drawings, performance data, and flaw detection results for critical components.

4. Fan Room Setup

The environment of the fan room affects the operation of the underground mining ventilation fan:

A direct phone line to the dispatch room must be installed.

Spare parts and tools should be complete and neatly organized.

Safety gear like insulated boots, gloves, voltage testers, and power-off signs should be accessible.

Fire equipment must include 2–4 extinguishers and at least 0.2 cubic meters of fire sand.

Proper lighting and emergency lighting must be installed for safe operations.

A complete and routine inspection based on this checklist ensures your underground mining ventilation fan operates efficiently and safely. From mechanical performance to safety systems and documentation, regular checks help prevent failures and maintain ventilation quality. A well-maintained underground mining ventilation fan is key to a safe and productive mining operation.