Station

nounStandard termMining

A widened area in a mine shaft or drift built to handle personnel, equipment, or infrastructure.

An excavated chamber extending off a main shaft or tunnel, serving as a critical junction for underground logistics. Stations provide the necessary clearance to load and unload skips, stage heavy equipment, or house fixed infrastructure like dewatering pumps and electrical substations. They act as the primary access points connecting vertical shafts to horizontal production workings.

Heard on the job

Drop the new pump motor at the 400-level station and make sure it's clear of the skip loading zone.

Insider tip

Miners often refer to stations by their depth or level number, making them the main geographic landmarks when navigating an underground mine.