As has previously been pointed out in these pages the greater proportion and the larger variety of the explosives that are annually produced are consumed in the industries and a very considerable proportion of these are consumed in the winning of coal. As is well known this most important industry is attended by many hazards, not the least of which is the constant danger of explosions owing to the presence of fire-damp and inflammable dust in these mines. Most serious accidents from these causes which have been attended with frightful casualties have frequently occurred, and their frequency and magnitude have increased as the demand for coal has increased until the public conscience has been aroused and efforts have been made by individuals and by governments to devise means by which to reduce the number of these explosions and limit their scope.
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