DOBSON DISASTER

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 13 June 1927, Page 5

DOBSON DISASTER

EVIDENCE AT INQUIRY

(United Press Association)

GREYMOUTH, This Day. At the Dobson mine disaster inquiry John Ford deposed that he worked No. 2 dip the day before the explosion. There was no, suspicion of danger when he left that night. This dip was very dusty and dangerous, but conditions had improved though they did not compare well with British mines, in which he had worked. A fortnight prior to the • disaster Marshall told witness jthat sparks flew when the deputy tried to turn on the electricity. The explosion in No. 2 dip would extend up the main drive. Witness had found gas in Nos. 1 and 3. Coal dust was mainly respons- ■ ible for the violence of the explosion. Thomas Reid, miner, said he noticed gas the night before the explosion, consequently leaving his place and telling Deputy Little. There was plenty of air. except at the working face. Edward Keating said Black fold him that a flame shot out of the motor the day before the explosion. James Ford said his place was free of gas the night before the explosion. He knew of no one working in gas and had no suspicion of anyone smoking. William Chctwyn said there was- gas and dust in the mine. He had seen ... shots fired on gas. Men in No. 2 dip worked in gas owing to lack of a brattice. After the disaster he found a piece of candle without a wick in Brammer's place. . John Bullock, miner, gave evidence that .the place was very dusty and reports were duly made. He considered the air pipes were inadequate.