Fatality #27 - March 9, 2008

On Sunday, March 9, 2008, five miners were scheduled to perform train load-out duty at the Warrior Coal, LLC, Warrior Preparation Plant, MSHA ID, 15-14335. At approximately 6:30 a.m., Michael H. Rickard, laborer, was injured as he walked outside the warehouse. Rickard slipped and fell on an icy walkway, injuring his right leg. He was found lying on the ground near his personal vehicle by co-workers. First aid was administered and Rickard was transported by ambulance to the Madisonville Regional Medical Center. He received immediate treatment for a broken right leg. Surgery was also performed to insert a steel rod and screws. After surgery, Rickard developed pneumonia and was in and out of critical care while hospitalized. Upon release from the hospital on March 25, 2008, Rickard developed further complications with his breathing. He refused to re-enter the hospital until April 3, 2008, when his condition became acutely worse. Rickard died in the hospital on April 4, 2008. 



On April 7, 2008, the Warrior Preparation Plant Safety Director, Jamie Woodruff notified Ray Cartwright, Coal Mine Inspector (CMI), of Mr. Rickard's death. On April 9, 2008, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) started an investigation with regard to chargeability of the accident as a mine-related fatality. Information was forwarded on May 12, 2008, to MSHA Headquarters for the Agency's Fatality Review Committee. Based on the results of MSHA's investigation, and a review of the available medical documentation, the Committee issued its conclusion on November 24, 2008. The Committee determined Rickard's death should be charged. The death certificate indicates Rickard died of asphyxia due to septic shock, due to pulmonary fibrosis. The MSHA Fatality Review Committee's conclusion stated Rickard's death was due to the complications of the surgical procedure that was performed to remedy a work-related injury.