What type of failure is classified as a major incident in mining?

The classification of a major incident in mining typically involves failures that can lead to significant hazards, pose serious risks to safety, and result in catastrophic consequences. A failure in service of explosion-protected equipment directly relates to safety measures that are essential for preventing explosions in environments where flammable materials are present, such as in underground mining operations. When this type of equipment fails, it can expose workers to an immediate and serious risk of explosion, thus categorizing it as a major incident that requires urgent attention and rectification.

In contrast, normal equipment malfunctions, minor maintenance issues, and regular staffing issues do not generally have the same level of impact on safety and operational integrity. These issues are often manageable within normal operational procedures and do not typically result in immediate danger to personnel or the environment. Therefore, the failure of explosion-protected equipment stands out as a critical concern that affects the health and safety framework in mining operations, warranting its classification as a major incident.