Accident Report: Fatality Reference
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COAL MINE FATALITY - - On April 28, 2010, the mine roof collapsed at approximately 10:00 p.m., resulting in fatal injuries to a 27-year old continuous miner operator with 3.5 years total mining experience and a 28-year old miner helper with 2 years total mining experience. The roof fall occurred while the miners were loading rock out of a completed extended cut. The fall measured a maximum of 19'9" in width and 10' in height. The length of the fall was approximately 70 to 75' in length, extending toward the face.
Best Practices
- Assess and examine the adequacy of roof control systems and mining layout for local geology. Know and follow the approved roof control plan.
- Always conduct a thorough visual examination of the roof, face and ribs immediately before work is performed and thereafter as conditions dictate.
- When adverse or subnormal roof conditions are present, the mining cut depth should be limited to 20 feet or less. Be alert to changing roof conditions at all times.
- Ensure that any past roof control issues or history of adverse conditions in adjacent previously mined areas are communicated to all miners and foremen.
Additional Information
These are the 34th and 35th fatalities reported in calendar year 2010 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2009, there were five fatalities reported in the coal mining industry. These are the first "Fall of Roof" classification fatalities in 2010. At this time in 2009, there were no fatalities in this classification.