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Fatality #3 - February 1, 2008

Accident Classification: Machinery
Location: Jap Creek Mine, Alabama
Mine Controller: Reed Minerals Inc.
Mine Type: Surface
Mined Material: Coal (Bituminous)
Incident Date/Time: February 1, 2008 12:30 pm
FATALITY ALERT

COAL MINE FATALITY - On Friday, February 1, 2008, a 34-year old field mechanic (contractor) with 13 years of experience was fatally injured while troubleshooting a diesel engine on a bulldozer. A valve cover, rocker assembly, and fuel injector had been removed from the cylinder head. The victim was observing the valve lifters while the engine was turned-over to place the lifters in a better position for retrieval. The victim was struck and fatally injured by material expelled from the cylinder head as the engine was cranked. 

FINAL REPORT
CAI-2008-03

UNITED STATES
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 

COAL MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH 

REPORT OF INVESTIGATION 

Surface Coal Mine 

Fatal Machinery Accident
February 1, 2008 

Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. (DL2)
Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama