Rock bolt is one of the most important safety systems used in underground mining. It is a long steel bar that is inserted into holes drilled in the rock to support the roof and walls of tunnels and mine openings. The main purpose of a rock bolt is to make the rock mass stable and prevent the roof or walls from falling. In underground mining, where workers are always surrounded by heavy rock layers, this support system is essential for protecting human life and keeping the workplace safe. Rock bolts were first used in underground mining around the 1940s, and they quickly became a standard method for rock support because they were much faster and more effective than using wood or steel frames. Today, almost every underground mine in the world uses rock bolts as part of its ground control system. According to international mining data, more than 80% of underground tunnels and excavations use rock bolts for stability and safety. A rock bolt works by anchoring itself into the rock mass and holding together weak layers or cracks. When the rock starts to move or deform due to stress or pressure, the rock bolt resists this movement and keeps the rock in place. The bolts are usually made of steel and installed using mechanical anchors, resin, or cement grouting. The selection depends on rock type, depth, and stress conditions. Measuring the performance of rock bolts is very important for safety monitoring. Engineers measure the load, stress, and deformation of each bolt using special sensors or strain gauges. Deformation is the small amount of stretching or bending that happens when the rock moves. If the deformation becomes too high, it means the rock bolt is reaching its limit and may fail, so it needs to be replaced or reinforced. During installation, miners must follow strict QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment) procedures. Workers must wear helmets, gloves, and eye protection because drilling and inserting bolts can release dust, small rock pieces, and noise. Bolts must be installed at the correct angle and depth, using safe drilling machines. Before starting, the roof must be checked for cracks or loose rocks. If we do not follow these steps, the rock could fall and cause serious injury or death. Rock bolts help save us because they hold the rock layers tightly, preventing sudden collapses or rock falls that can trap workers. In recent years, technology has brought a big improvement: smart rock bolts. These are modern types of bolts that include sensors and wireless transmitters. They can detect stress, vibration, or deformation in real time and send safety warnings to the control room or directly to workers’ handheld devices. When the rock begins to move dangerously, the smart rock bolt sends a signal or message, giving early warning before a collapse happens. This allows miners to evacuate or take action immediately. Smart rock bolts use wireless communication and sometimes low-power Bluetooth or radio signals to transmit data. Some systems also connect to cloud platforms where engineers can monitor many bolts at once. The sensors measure tension, strain, and temperature changes, and the data is automatically recorded for safety reports. These systems are a big step forward for QHSE management because they reduce the need for manual inspection and give continuous, real-time monitoring of underground conditions. In conclusion, rock bolts are the backbone of underground mine safety. From the first use in the 1940s to today’s smart wireless bolts, they continue to protect workers and maintain the stability of mine tunnels. They help reduce accidents, support heavy rock layers, and create a safer working environment. As technology advances, smart rock bolts will play an even bigger role in ensuring that underground mining remains safe, efficient, and well controlled.