Roof Bolters - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, roof bolters:

Are responsible for the health and safety of their coworkers.
Have a high level of social contact. They communicate with supervisors or coworkers most of the time.
Are responsible for work outcomes.
Communicate with coworkers and supervisors daily in person.
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Work in a group or as part of a team.
Sometimes must handle conflict situations in which others may be unpleasant, angry, or discourteous.

Always wear safety clothing or protective gear.
Are always exposed to noise levels that are uncomfortable. The machines they operate can be loud.
Are exposed to contaminants on a daily basis.
Are exposed to hazardous equipment on a daily basis.
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Always are exposed to inadequate lighting.
Are always exposed to cramped work places that require working in awkward positions, such as on their knees or back.
Are always exposed to hazardous conditions, such as breathing coal dust.
Are exposed to hazardous situations daily. These situations may produce cuts or minor burns.
Are often exposed to very hot conditions in underground mines.
Sometimes wear specialized safety clothing or protective gear.
Are sometimes exposed to whole body vibration, such as when operating machinery.
Often work indoors in an environment that is not environmentally controlled. May on occasion work outdoors.
Work mostly in an open vehicle or equipment, such as underground mining machinery.
Work near coworkers, but usually have a few feet of space separating them from others.

Must keep pace with the speed of equipment or machinery.
Must be sure their work is exact. Errors could endanger the safety of miners.
Must meet strict deadlines on a daily basis.
Repeat the same physical activities.
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Make decisions on a daily basis that strongly impact coworkers. They rarely consult with supervisors before making decisions.
Are able to set some tasks for the day without consulting with a supervisor.
Are moderately competitive with coworkers.

Generally have a set schedule each week.
Usually work full time. The average worker in the mining industry works 45 hours a week.