The heapstead is the elevated framework built directly over and around the mouth of a mine shaft at the surface. It provides the necessary vertical clearance to hoist coal out of the pit and immediately tip it over screens or into awaiting rail wagons. It houses the banking level where cages are unloaded and empty tubs are cycled back down.
Heard on the job
Maintenance crews are replacing the decking plates up in the heapstead this weekend.