March 5, 2026 Fatality - Fatality Alert | Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

Accident Report: Fatality Reference

MINE FATALITY – On March 5, 2026, a continuous mining machine operator died after being pinned against the coal rib by a continuous mining machine.

Operate equipment from a safe location. Stay out of “Red Zone” areas including pinch points, the continuous mining machine (CMM) turning radius, and areas between the CMM and the ribs.
Develop and implement procedures for tramming, repositioning, cable handling, and moving remote controlled CMMs safely.
Maintain the proximity detection systems (PDS) in the approved operating condition. Perform manufacturer-recommended tests to ensure the PDS is functioning properly.
Position miner wearable components (MWCs) in accordance with the PDS manufacturer’s recommendations so users can see and hear warning lights and sounds.
Mine operators must ensure MWCs are properly worn.
Train miners on the functionality and importance of the PDS.

This is the fourth fatality reported in 2026, and the second classified as “Machinery.”