What do you call the passageways that lead to the working face in a coal mine?

The passageways that lead to the working face in a coal mine are referred to as entries. These entries serve as the main access routes for miners and equipment to reach the coal seams where extraction occurs. They provide a critical pathway for the safe transportation of both personnel and materials throughout the mining operation.

In underground mining, entries are designed to facilitate the movement toward the main working areas, optimizing safety and efficiency. Unlike drifts, which are horizontal passages that may be used for transport at various levels, entries are specifically aligned with the seams and are essential for direct access to the working face.

Understanding the function of entries is crucial for maintaining effective operational flow in mining activities, ensuring that workers can safely navigate to and from the areas where they are actively mining coal.