Discussing the conditions in the Hurst mines for the Kinnard Commission in 1863, Robert Daykin, the agent, said there were about 67 pickmen employed underground and that both blasting and picking were used.

There were a few women employed on the surface, none underground. The men entered the mine by the level. The longest level was Queens Level, at 700 fathoms (1,400 yds). Night shifts were also employed, with 8-10 men working 6 hr night shifts.

Men had to provide their own tools and candles. Candles could be bought from the ownership at 8s/doz - a profit of 2/6 to the company.

Fresh air was provided by a windy king, driven by a boy (this carried air forward by means of wooden boxes), and by natural fissures. Carbonic acid was present in the mine and the men would have to retreat when its presence was found either by candles not burning, or by it causing, "a drowsiness and lassitude". Better air circulation was not provided because the mine was poor and would not support great expense.