Raise (mining)

In underground mining, a raise refers to a vertical or inclined excavation that leads from one level, or drift, to another. A raise may also extend to surface. There are four excavation methods for raises:
 * 1) Conventional or open raise
 * 2) Long-hole or drop raise
 * 3) Alimak
 * 4) Raise boring

Raises serve a number of purposes including:
 * 1) Transportation of ore and waste rock
 * 2) Ventilation
 * 3) Creating a free face for mining
 * 4) Movement of workers via manway ladders