Main ventilation fans should have controls placed where?

Main ventilation fans should have controls placed on the surface to ensure safe and efficient operation. This placement allows for better oversight of the ventilation system from a controlled and safe environment while minimizing the risk of personnel being exposed to potentially hazardous underground conditions. Having controls on the surface means that adjustments can be made quickly in response to changing conditions, such as air quality or mining activity, without the need for personnel to enter the more dangerous underground areas.

While underground controls may seem convenient for immediate adjustments, they expose operators to potential risks like poor visibility, air quality issues, or other hazards present in a mining environment. Similarly, placing controls in the control room or near ventilation doors, while possibly useful, does not provide the same level of oversight and safety as having them on the surface. The surface control option emphasizes worker safety while maintaining operational efficiency in managing the ventilation system effectively.