• The mine operator should develop an adequate ground control plan based on prudent engineering design and follow it to insure safe working conditions.
  
  
• Highwalls, banks, benches, and terrain sloping into the working areas are to be examined for hazardous conditions and hazardous areas shall be scaled before any other work is performed in the area.
  
  
• Operators of mobile equipment should position their equipment to provide the greatest protection for the equipment operator from failure of the highwall or spoil bank.
  

This is the 13th fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 1998, there were 9 fatalities. This is the third fatality classified as FALL OF HIGHWALL in 1999.

For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL99C13]