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COAL MINE FATALITY - On Saturday October 10, 1998, a 28-year-old continuous mining machine operator was fatally injured when he was struck by falling roof that was approximately 12-1/2 feet by 13 feet by 9 inches in thickness. The victim was standing outby the machine while mining the second cut in the pillar when the accident occurred. He was operating the continuous mining machine by remote control. The accident area had been previously supported with 48-inch fully grouted roof bolts.

BEST PRACTICES
  • Be alert to changing roof conditions, especially when conducting retreat mining.

  • Alway examine the roof properly in your work area.

    • This is the 24th fatality reported in calendar year 1998 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 1997, there were 25 fatalities. This is the 11th fatality classified as Roof Fall in 1998.

    For more information:
    Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL98C24]