Unfortunately, the lamps did not prevent further disasters because there were other sources of ignition, such as sparks from metal tools such as picks and shovels and later, electrical equipment and explosives used to blast tunnels. Moreover, both of the lamps could set off explosions if the gauze rusted through (very likely in the wet environment of a pit bottom), or the glass on the Geordie fractured which also happened. Later devices such as the Mueseler lamp were better protected, but all such lamps gave very poor illumination. It was one cause of nystagmus, a disorder of the eyes common among coal miners. It was not until electric safe lamps were introduced at the end of the Victorian period that miners had adequate and safe lights. Source: Wiki
This photograph is by carnkie and was uploaded April 24th 2009. © carnkie please do not copy or distribute without prior express permission.
You can close this window to return to the main site.