Felling mine disasters

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Felling mine disasters refer to two major mining disasters that occurred in the early 19th century at the Felling colliery, near Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, in the North East of England. These disasters were pivotal in highlighting the dangers of mining and led to significant advancements in mine safety.

1812 Disaster

The first disaster struck on May 25, 1812, when a series of explosions caused by firedamp (methane) ignited by miners' candles killed 92 miners. This tragedy was one of the earliest recorded mining disasters in the world and brought to light the hazardous conditions under which miners worked.

1813 Disaster

Following the 1812 disaster, another explosion occurred on December 24, 1813, claiming 22 lives. Despite the previous year's catastrophe, sufficient safety measures had not been implemented, leading to this second tragic event.

Impact and Legacy

The Felling mine disasters had a profound impact on mining safety and led to the creation of the Society for the Prevention of Accidents in Coal Mines, established by prominent figures including Sir Humphry Davy and George Stephenson. These disasters underscored the need for improved ventilation in mines to prevent the accumulation of dangerous gases.

Sir Humphry Davy's Safety Lamp

In response to the disasters, Sir Humphry Davy invented the Davy lamp in 1815, a safety lamp for miners that could significantly reduce the risk of igniting methane gas. This invention marked a significant advancement in mine safety.

George Stephenson and the Geordie Lamp

Similarly, George Stephenson, an engineer and the father of the railways, invented the Geordie lamp, another safety lamp designed to provide miners with a safer light source. Both the Davy lamp and the Geordie lamp were crucial developments in the aftermath of the Felling mine disasters.

Memorial

A memorial to the victims of the Felling mine disasters was erected, serving as a reminder of the lives lost and the importance of mine safety. The disasters and the subsequent safety innovations played a key role in the development of mining engineering and safety standards.

See Also

• Mining accident
• Coal mining
• Industrial Revolution
• Mine safety