Roof Bolter how-to

How to Sound a Mine Roof

Sounding finds loose rock.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Sounding finds loose rock. In short: stay; tap; listen, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Stay under supported roof.

  2. Tap with a bar.

  3. Listen for hollow sounds.

  4. Mark loose areas.

  5. Scale down if safe.

  6. Report.

Safety reminders for roof bolters

  • Never go under unsupported roof
  • Check for methane
  • Wear self-rescuers
  • Follow MSHA rules

MSHA · Part 46/48 training · Ground control · Haul road · Pre-shift exam · Roof bolt: see the full roof bolter glossary.

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