CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam Refuge Chamber
The CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam Refuge Chamber is designed for underground coal mines with a minimum seam height of 56” (1.4m). The refuge chamber can be custom designed to client specifications, but typically features 8, 12, 16 and 20 person configurations.
The CoalSAFE Mid Seam Refuge Chamber is approved in the United States by the West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety & Training and built to the Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA) Federal Regulations '30 CFR Refuge Alternatives for Underground Coal Mines'.

Overview
The CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam Refuge Chamber features an innovative, intrinsically safe life-support system that is unique to MineARC Systems; providing both powerless CO/CO2 scrubbing and airconditioning. Utilising a sequential operating procedure, the intrinsically safe system can be activated in less than 60 seconds during a coal mining emergency.
- Intrinsically Safe Design
- Blast Rating: 15psi
- CO & CO2 Scrubbing
- Breathable Air (O2) Supply
- Fully Flushing, Internal Airlock
- Air Conditioning
- 96hrs Standalone Operation with Option to Upgrade
- Viewing Porthole
- Gas Monitoring
- In-built Cylinder Storage
- Cyalume Light Sticks
- Special Dimensions and Configurations
- Duration Upgrade
- Blast Rating Upgrade
- MSHA Approved Strobe
- Towbar
- 58cm (23″) Wheels
- Emergency Escape Hatch
- Reinforced Attachment Points
- Lifting Eye Shackles
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CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam 8-Person Refuge ChamberCS-08-54119
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CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam 12-Person Refuge ChamberCS-12-54119
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CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam 16-Person Refuge ChamberCS-16-54119
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CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam 20-Person Refuge ChamberCS-20-54119
CHAMBER EXTERIOR – FRONT
The ‘face’ of the CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam Refuge Chamber is designed primarily for easy identification and quick access during a coal mining emergency. The reflective signage alerts passers-by to the refuge chamber’s location, whilst the interlocking rotating door handles provide simple, straight forward access to the safety of the interior airlock.
The CoalSAFE has been engineered to ensure ease of transport and robust design. Constructed from explosion resistant steel plate with external support wraps and surround package as standard, the refuge can withstand in excess of 15psi overpressure with no permanent damage. Push points, forklift slots and towing and lifting eyes are provided top and bottom on front and rear.
CHAMBER INTERIOR
Inside the MineARC CoalSAFE MSHA Mid Seam Refuge Chamber, a number of vital systems combine to create a safe, ongoing environment for
occupants.
The MARCis intrinsically safe Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Scrubbing System does not require any electrical power to operate. The active chemical scrubbing system is designed to clean the air of these harmful gases and toxins that build up over time within a sealed, occupied environment. In addition, the MARCis incorporates a non-electrical air conditioning system that both cools and dehumidifies the refuge chamber.
Comparison Table
Capacity
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Intrinsically Safe System
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MSHA Compliant ![]() |
48hr Duration | 96hr Duration | 5psi Blast Resistance | 15psi Blast Resistance | Low Seam Construction | High Seam Construction | |
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12-20 | ||||||||
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12-24 | ||||||||
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8-20 | ||||||||
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12-24 | ||||||||
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8-30 |