In the early 19th century, coal mines were plagued by dangerous explosions caused by methane gas (firedamp). These explosions resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.

Davy was invited to investigate the problem of mine explosions by the Society for Preventing Accidents in Coal Mines. He visited the Hebburn Colliery in Newcastle-upon-Tyne to observe the conditions firsthand.

Davy conducted a series of experiments to understand the properties of methane and its mixtures with air. He discovered that methane required a high temperature to ignite and that flame would not pass through narrow tubes or small apertures.

Based on his experiments, Davy designed a safety lamp in which the flame was surrounded by a wire gauze cylinder. The gauze dissipated the heat of the flame, preventing it from igniting the surrounding methane gas. The lamp allowed miners to work safely in gassy environments. A key feature of the lamp was that the flame would burn brighter if methane was present, warning the miners of danger.

Davy presented his safety lamp to the Royal Society. It was quickly adopted in coal mines throughout Britain and Europe, saving countless lives.

Davy refused to patent the Davy lamp, considering it a public service. He was awarded a silver plate by coal mine owners and made a baronet in 1818.