Kentucky Surface Mine Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

Trailing cables must be protected when equipment crosses their path, and the protection required is proper bridging. A bridge provides a rigid load-bearing surface that the equipment’s wheel rides over, so the wheel load is supported by the bridge rather than the cable. This prevents crushing of the cable insulation and damage to conductors, reducing the risk of fire, electrical fault, and equipment downtime. Simply wrapping, taping, or leaving the cable unbraced does not create a safe, load-bearing path and can still allow damage, moisture entrapment, or movement that leads to wear. Properly bridged cables stay out of the wheel path and maintain a safe, durable passage for the equipment.