COAL MINE FATALITY - On Sunday, October 28, 2007, a 34-year old miner with 5 years mining experience was fatally injured while shoveling along a belt conveyor. The victim was using a shovel and sledge hammer to clean the belt conveyor walkway. He was struck by a large piece of rock which had been standing on its side behind two vertical roof jacks. The large piece of rock fell over dislodging the roof jacks and fatally injuring the victim.

Best Practices
Conduct adequate preshift and on-shift examinations to identify any hazardous conditions. Correct hazardous conditions prior to any work or travel in the affected area(s). Monitor deteriorating conditions closely to identify and correct hazards early.
This is the 26th fatality reported in calendar year 2007 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2006, there were 42 fatalities reported in the coal mining industry. This is the first fall/slide of material fatality in 2007. At this time in 2006, there were no fatalities in this classification.
The information provided in this notice is based on preliminary data ONLY and does not represent final determinations regarding the nature of the incident or conclusions regarding the cause of the fatality.
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