Abstract: In a continuous mining machine equipped with a sprayfan ventilation system for methane and dust control, the sprayfan ventilation system including a plurality of sprayfans positioned on the front portion of the mining machine to direct intake air to and across the front of the mining machine to prevent buildup of methane and dust concentrations, the intake air containing methane and dust being thereafter discharged to an exhaust zone, an improvement comprising: at least one reverse sprayfan means mounted on a rear portion of the mining machine on a side of said mining machine nearest the exhaust zone and positioned to direct spray to the rear of the mining machine and to direct said intake air containing methane and dust generally toward the exhaust zone.