33 Chilean Miners Found Alive, but Rescue May Be Months Away

Aug. 23, 2010
Thirty-three Chilean miners who were trapped underground Aug. 5 when their mine collapsed were found alive 17 days later, giving their loved ones and the entire nation cause to celebrate.

Thirty-three Chilean miners who were trapped underground Aug. 5 when their mine collapsed were found alive 17 days later, giving their loved ones and the entire nation cause to celebrate. But the trapped miners still have a long road ahead, as officials say it could take up to 4 months to rescue them from the mine.

When the main tunnel in the copper and gold mine, located near Copiapó, Chile, suffered a collapse, the 33 minters were able to access an underground shelter, according to media reports. Rescuers worked for more than 2 weeks to locate the trapped miners, and hope had faded before contact was made Aug. 22. The miners were able to send a note to the surface explaining they were all alive and well in the shelter.

BBC News reported that a larger drill would be required to dig a shaft wide enough to pull the miners to safety – an operation that could take at least 4 months. Chilean authorities plan to send food, water and other supplies into the mine, as well as microphones and cameras to communicate with the trapped miners.

According to media reports, all the miners are currently safe in the underground shelter and are expected to eventually be rescued.

Related Articles

Scientists Develop New Way of Finding Trapped Miners

NIOSH Study Supports Chambers and Shelters for Underground Mines

Mine Workers President Roberts Calls for Stronger Workplace Safety Regulations

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

Finding the Balance Between Protection, Performance and Comfort

Feb. 28, 2025
There’s more to picking out the right cut-resistant glove than just choosing the one with the highest cut protection; different jobs require certain types of protection, and too...

Take This Quiz to Find Your Safety Glove Personality

Feb. 28, 2025
What’s your HyFlex®?

Revolutionary Hybrid Technology Delivers a Breakthrough in Chemical Performance

Feb. 28, 2025
Ansell AlphaTec® 53-002 with MICROCHEM™ multi-layer barrier. Utilizing unique rubber polymer and plastic laminate technology for extreme protection against a wide range of chemical...

Unprecedented Chemical Protection and Comfort

Feb. 28, 2025
AlphaTec 53-003 gloves provide extreme chemical protection as well as protection against secondary hazards like mechanical and heat risks. A nylon liner enhances comfort and sweat...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!