Mining Incidents

Elk Creek MineCoal

Oxbow Mining, LLC · Underground
Controlled by Oxbow Carbon LLC
Somerset, Co, Gunnison County, CO · Abandoned and Sealed
MSHA Mine ID: 0504674
Fatalities
1
Total incidents
200
Years on record
2003–2015
Latest incident
Jul 2015

Fatalities at this mine

1 recorded
Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Employee was cutting a metal band on a bundle of rib screen. When the band broke, the screen expanded and fell on his chest, pinning him between the screen and the Wagner scoop. The screen was lifted off the victim with a skid steer and no pulse was found. The victim was transported to hospital.

Reportable incidents

199 on file (excluding fatalities above)

2015 · 1 incident

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

A reaction to poison ivy surfaced on 7/13/2015 after exposure on 7/10/2015. The rash was treated with first aid for five days. The rash worsened and spread. EE sought medical services on 7/17/2015. A bacterial infection was diagnosed and treated.

2014 · 1 incident

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury belt fire occurred on the surface, between the silo and train load out building, a distance of 302 feet. The 84"" belt was consumed by the fire and 43' of belt structure was damaged. The fire was put out by the local fire department. The area was gated and locked. The mine is in non producing status.

2013 · 5 incidents

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was loading rock dust (bags), North Mains x-cut 13, into back of mantrip, when she felt a pop in her left shoulder. Shoulder strain physical therapy

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was loading belt hardware into a metal skid, when he slipped on some ice. Felt pulling in back of leg, behind left knee, stain.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

EE was pushing on 4"" plastic pipe xc 33 North Mains to align coupler, felt knee pop. Strain to left knee.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall was found between the #9 and #10 crosscut of the north mains in the #6 entry. The fall was 6 to 8 feet high, 20 feet long and 16 feet wide. A breaker row had been set outby. 6' resin bolts were installed in entry.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury mountain bump occurred inby the 5N longwall. Additional floor heave and rib falls. Some damage to ventilation controls, outby to x-cut 19 #2 and #3 entries. Same area as 12-2-2012 event. The longwall face was inby 17 x-cut.

2012 · 15 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

Mountain bump around 25 crosscut, a long sand channel of the 5NB start line. This resulted in floor hiccup and rib falls crosscut 20 to 26 in the #2 and #3 entries. Damage to ventilation controls disrupted mining activity. The long wall face was out-by crosscut 18. Power was pulled and men withdrawn.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was helping tighten some simplex roof jacks behind a Kennedy stopping X-cut 33 5 North. Pulled down on the lever and felt sharp pain in his left shoulder, shoulder strain.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE was walking around x-cut 11, 5 entry of North Main to pick up floats to pump water. He stepped on 4"" pipe and slipped and fell on left shoulder when he put his arm out resulting in shoulder strain.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Crew was taking down pressure, rebar and water hoses to move back after shields were removed from face. Crew member was bleeding lines off, when the hose whipped and hit a second employee in the lower left jaw. This resulted in a 1"" x 2"" contusion in the jaw area.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was taking apart air line while standing in side of shuttle car moved out of the way of 2nd employee and stepped off shuttle car and fell to the ground and injured right shoulder. Physical Therapy.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was getting out of skidsteer loader, caught right foot on headframe and fell down on right shoulder. Shoulder strain.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

After medical exam. miner has sufficient degree of Pneumoconioses (black lung) Notification letter from MSHA.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

After medical examination miner has sufficient degree of pneumoconiosis (black lung) notification letter from MSHA.

Accident type, without injuries

MSHA Citation #7636987 issued 3/23/2012 states a coal outburst occurred in 4N Longwall headgate that caused rib debris along travelway in entry No 1 along stageloader and in 17 x-cut between 1 and 2 entries. Report filed under protest and to be contested with Citation # 7636987.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred at XC 19, #4 entry Northwest Mains, the fall was 18' wide X 30' long and up to 7.5' high. Primary Support 6' resin roof bolts.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

The foreman was pulling a rope tied to the D-Ring on the inside slider vent tube, while pulling the vent tube out the D-Ring broke and EE twisted his back. This resulted in lower back strain. This happened in the MMU 002 mining face.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE was on the end of a 50' 2"" high pressure hose with 3 other miners carrying the hose past the longwall power center when he stepped on a piece of coal and fell down. This resulted in a lower back strain, EE is doing P.T. This occurred in the 4 N LW MMU 010 18 XC #2 Entry.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Moving 24-10 915 Eimco out of surface diesel shop, pinched left index finger between steering ram and hydrlic hose. Laceration and smashed finger this resulted in amputation of finger tip below the first joint.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was going to grease mast of canopy on roof bolter. Job had already been completed. Employee tried to grease another employee or employee tried to grease him. During this activity the miners knee was injured, this resulted in a knee strain to the right knee

Accident type, without injuries

MMU-002 #2 Entry x-cut 31 & 32 4 North B, a non-injury methane ignition occurred while EE was drilling a 12' cable hole. The drill steel contacted a roof mat and ignited methane inside the drill hole. The flame was put out with water and fire extinguishers.

2011 · 16 incidents

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Employee was using sledge hammer to hit cap piece to close inspection door on panline. Missed cap piece and finger was cut when being caught between hammer handle and panline. Sutures were required to close the laceration.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was walking down the entry and slipped on some loose coal, when he went to catch his fall he landed on his arm. This resulted in a fracture to his right forearm.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was picking up tools at end of his shift. Backing away from equipment, tripped over torque converter lying on shop floor. Reached back with left hand to break the fall and injured left shoulder.

Struck by falling object

Employee was removing brake caliper off front wheel on Dodge pick-up. Prying off rotor caliper, slipped out of his hands and landed on top of left knee. Bruise above knee.

Accident type, without injuries

A Non-injury mountain bump occurred in the 4 north, mmu, 010, longwall tailgate entries. From the longwall face outby for 60 feet in the #3 entry between 28 and 29 x-cut and inby 28 x-cut in the #2 entry of 3 north.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was pulling rock dust hose on the 4 North B belt line. Felt pain in lower right groin area. Hernia surgery 6/16/11.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Three people rolling metal box, employee said he hurt his back. Setting box to dewater degass hole in 4 north. Lower back strain.

Fall to lower level, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Trying to get tripod stand off bank, stumbled down bank, fell, put out his left arm to catch himself. Fracture to upper left arm.

Struck against stationary object

While reinstalling cover on reclaim belt by draw point #2, employee walked into a bracket bolted to the ceiling - hitting his left shoulder. This required rotator cuff surgery.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee caught his L/hand - middle finger - in jaw clamps on bolter.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was carrying a 20' section of 2"" tubular steel into the shop when he turned and twisted his right knee.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Lifting belt structure, felt pain in groin area, hernia.

Struck by falling object

Shuttle car operator was assisting bolter operators - installing rib screen. Stated he checked rib - secured side and bolter operator drilled and while he was helping place screen the rib rolled and he was stuck with some loose material. Swollen area (1"" to 2"") above eyebrow.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

While employee was picking up a 4"" x 14' I beam with a second employee onto a lifting bracket the employee felt pain in his lower back. This was in 3N 2 entry XC - 19.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Rotating bull wheel on crusher to position roll for segment, roll started to free-wheel because of slack on come-a-long. Left finger got caught in chain, he pulled his fingers out after being pinched.

Unclassified, insufficient data

Employee complained of pain at longwall at end of shift. EE said pain due to previous injury at mine of prior employment. No report or other information given by employee. Report filed to terminate citation 8140936 - under protest and to be contested.

2010 · 12 incidents

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EE was passing a bucket of sealant thru a mandoor in a Kennedy stopping when he pulled a lower back muscle. EE went to the clinic was checked out and released and RTW. EE missed work 2 days later, returned to the Dr. EE doing P.T.

Struck by falling object

Coal rib bump occured the miner operator had graded to the face and bumped into the coal face. The operator was standing outby the miner tail when he was hit by coal from behind the screened rib. The operator was taken to the hospital. A metal plate and screws were used to repair his broken left shoulder. He was released from the hospital 2 days later.

Accident type, without injuries

Mining #1 to #2 entry in 4 North, mine section, MMU-001, #15 x-cut. Water started coming out of mine floor, backed miner outby. Later water flow increased, shut power off in section. Water flow increased filling outby crosscut in the lower return entry. Ventilation had to be changed to ventilate section and pump water.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was riding in passenger seat of mantrip. Mantrip was being backed up and struck an 8"" water line hung from the roof. Employee felt his back pop. Employee is doing physical therapy. Crosscut 26 of 3 north roadway was the location of the accident.

Accident type, without injuries

Miners were working on face ventilation in 4 North when methane began to spike. The power was shut off to the section and MSHA called.It was later found that the return overcast for the section had been damaged from overflowing water from a pump station losing power to the water pump.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was removing bent drill steels from the mine roof. After removing first drill steel, he went to lower drill head, and moved the joy stick to the rotate position. The drill steel then hit the employee in the left forearm, fracturing both bones between his wrist and elbow.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was carrying 2 Kennedy panels uphill to build stopping. He lost his footing, twisting his left knee while falling down. Knee strain MRI 9/10/2010. Knee surgery 9/23/10-(Torn ACL).

Over-exertion in lifting objects

While picking up a bag of rock dust to fill duster, employee pulled a muscle in his groin area.

Accident type, without injuries

A 20' cut had been taken in the #3 entry of 3 North inby the #22xc. When methane and water came out of the mine roof. Power was pulled and curtains were being used to ventilate section. Additional rock fell out of the unsupported roof exposing a methane feeder and additional water.

Fall onto or against objects

EE was walking down entry (#1 entry XC11 to 12 northwest mains), slipped and fell on his SCSR. Pulled muscle in lower back, starts physical therapy 4/21/10.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Two employee were carrying bottom belt roller on their shoulders to 2 North Longwall tailpiece. The other employee started to drop roller. Injured tried to catch roller with arm and felt a pop in his shoulder. Shoulder strain to right shoulder.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred in the West Main 8 Crosscut 25' in the #3 Entry. The fall was 6 1/2 to 8' high, 20 to 25 ' long and 25' wide.

2009 · 17 incidents

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

EE was replacing rock duster on roof bolter, EE was attempting to slide duster along walk way with 2 other EE's when it hung up and he strained himself. Pulled a groin muscle.

Struck by falling object

EE was taking down belt hardware on X cut 5 CU 4 belt, EE was taking out rails from inside of belt hangers one slid out and landed on top of her left foot. Bruise to top of EE's foot.

Struck by falling object

Installing rib screen in a pre-drilled hole. While pushing in conventional bolt by hand thru screen, rib fell (2"" thick x 6' long) hitting employee in right knee and ankle.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was cleaning bolter, went to move boom, hand slipped off lever, hit down lever and dropped boom on left middle finger. Laceration

Struck by powered moving object

EE parked mantrip, got out, was getting chock block out of rear compartment. Truck started to roll down hill, EE tried to get back in truck and fell dwon or was knocked down by rear compartment of truck. This resulted in 2 broken ribs and broken bone ni right foot (metatarsus).

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was inspecting dozer, stepped off track onto step and twisted his right knee.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee had set a timber by the section Power Center, x-cut 10 of 2 north and was walking between a pallet of dust and picnic table and tripped and fell down, hurting his right shoulder.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall was found in the #1 entry, #1 crosscut of 11 west, wooden crib and cable bolts had been installed in the intersection. The fall measured 25' long X 25' wide and 6 to 10' high.

Struck against stationary object

3 South longwall set-up. EE removing cover on motor, pulling down on wrench, wrench slipped off bolt and he cut his hand on motor stuffing box. 1 1/2 inch laceration, 5 stitches to close wound.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was installing rib bolt. Putting in spinner wrench, raised boom with his foot on drill head. Knee hit frame of roof bolter small laceration on knee and bruise.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was walking from clean side of bathhouse to dirty side and slipped while carrying his lunch box. He extended his right arm to catch himself and hurt his right shoulder.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was carrying 5 gal oil cans up longwall face to change oil in tailgate drive. Was crossing from rear walkway to toes of shield between 40 and 45 shields and fell hitting back and chest. Rib fractured and bruised abdomen.

Struck by falling object

Bullgang crew was using skid steer to stand up door frame for equipment doors. Frame was chained to forks. Employee was moving cable out of the way when chain came unhooked and frame fell on top of his right foot. Fracture to small bone on top of foot.

Accident type, without injuries

Coal was being mined in the #3 entry of 3 South MMU-002. 10 foot cut was taken on the left side and miner moved over and cut 15 feet on the right side when low oxygen & high heat was encountered. A void was located in front of the miner app. 130 feet inby x-cut 24 (The area was sealed off on 2/5/09)

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee picked up metal bar and placed on his shoulder, this resulted in a lower back strain.

Struck by falling object

Employee was assisting in building a sloping in the North Mains Crosscut 2 to 3 entry. The center of cinder block stopping fell over a solid block & hit employee on right foot. Fracture to top of right foot.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Entering bottom of silo, stepped in a ditch and twisted left knee.

2008 · 31 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Carring timber in low area of mine when he felt a pull in the left testicular area.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Putting in dui-dag bolts in a low area with Cobra drill when the roof bolt slipped off & drill shot up smashing his finger against roof and drill.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was hanging high voltage cable and nips after power move. Hanging cable 8 1/2 to 9 feet high. Twisted right knee.

Struck by falling object

Employee was welding a 12"" x 30"" x 2"" metal on the back of a 950 loader as a counterweight. While welding he heard a pop sound and the plate landed on his left foot resulting in fractured toe. This was in the welding shop.

Struck by rolling or sliding object

Employee was putting a foam filled tire back on scoop. When tire was being rolled into place by crew the tire overbalanced and pushed on his left leg hyperextending knee. This was in 2 South miner section.

Struck against stationary object

Carrying material, stepped on a piece of wood and twisted ankle.

Fall from ladders

Employee was helping remove 12 west longwall head roller transfer chute. He was stepping off load bed onto a ladder. The ladder bottom rolled when he put his weight on ladder and fell down twisting his knee.

Struck by falling object

EE was bldg kennedy stopping with 2nd ee. He was holding angle iron while other ee was driving into the rib. Rib fell knocking ee to the ground. He reported to have broken ribs and puncture lung. The area was in 13W, between sharline and x cut 18 1/2 in the #1 entry. Rib measured 13'L, 4'-6' wide and 9 1/2 high.

Struck by falling object

EE was bldg kennedy stopping with 2nd ee. He was holding angle iron while other ee was driving into the rib. Rib fell knocking ee to the ground. He reported to have broken ribs and puncture lung. The area was in 13W, between sharline and x cut 18 1/2 in the #1 entry. Rib measured 13'L, 4'-6' wide and 9 1/2 high.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall was found in the #3 entry of 1st north at X-cut 15. The fall measured 20' long X 30' wide X 7'-8' high. The area was dangered off and marked on the mine map. This area is a common entry not walked during weekly examination. During an MSHA inspection on 2/13/09 the roof fall was observed, a citation issued, form filled out to terminate citation.

Struck by falling object

EE was hanging sound curtain and dislodged rock off rib between rib and roof screen. The rock hit him in head and shoulder. EE bit his tongue and chipped a tooth and abrasions across sholder, about 3"" to 4"" long. This was in the South East X-cut 18 return entry miner section.

Accident type, without injuries

During a technical investigation performed on Sept 8, 2008 2 roof falls were observed in the west # 2 entry. Crib had been installed in the intersection travelway to the seal in the # 4 crosscut. A fall of roof was observed between 3 and 4 x-cut. 8' high x 17'wide x 110' long & between 4 and 5 x-cut 8' high x 17' wide and 50' long in # 2 Entry.

Accident type, without injuries

A bump occured in 11 west tailgate 20' outby the longwall face. The area measured 100 feet long from spad 7 + 80 to 6 + 60 in the # 3 entry. Floor heave and rib sloughage blocking tailgate travelway. Double row of cribs installed in entry.

Struck by falling object

Employee was pulling in shields, shield hung up looked out from pincher next shield over and shield dropped hitting him on head. Neck strain doing physical therapy.

Struck against a moving object

The employee was a passenger in the Terra-Pro mantrip when the accelerator pedal became stuck & the mantrip hit corner at the intersection of 12 west and northwest mains. Employee received a contusion over left eye.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was operating Terra-Pro unit #1555 when the eccelerator pedal became stuck and he failed to nake the corner at the intersection of 12 west and northwest mains strikig the outby rib. Employee's ear was cut on inside of mantrip. Stitches were required to closed laceration.

Struck against a moving object

The employee was a passenger in the Terra-Pro mantrip when the accelerator pedal became stuck & the mantrip hit corner at the intersection of 12 west and northwest mains. The employee was thrown inside the mantrip and hit her head and chest. Laceration to her head and 2 broken ribs.

Struck against a moving object

The employee was a passenger in the Terra-Pro mantrip when the accelerator pedal became stuck & the mantrip hit corner at the intersection of 12 west and northwest mains. The employee hit his head on inside of mantrip. 15 staples to close laceration.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred during rehabilitation work of the North mains. 18 steel arches had been installed between 6 and 5 x-cut in the #5 entry. A crib had been removed to allow more steel arches to be installed in the #5 xcut intersection. scoop brought to crib and arch, top started working 20 min later top fell. 6-8ft high, 35' long anf 18' wide.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While carrying a longwall part (slow feed) with 4 other crew members, employee's foot slipped in mud while setting part on pallet and pulled muscle in lower back. 12 west 1 to 2 entry and 19 x-cut.

Accident type, without injuries

Tailgate blockage 12 west LW MMU-010, floor heave and broken cars in travelway. #3 entry of 11 west inby end 35+00, outby end 31+00 (21 1/2 x-cut to 19 1/2 x-cut).

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occured in the # 2 entry of 12 west at crosscut 25. The fall measured 8' to 9' high, 35 feet long and 18 to 20 feet wide.

Struck by falling object

Employee was on ladder, topping off crib with wooden wedges, the wedge dislodged a rock from the roof and hit him in the shoulder and collar bone. HG 12 West, 2 entry x-cut 30.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was walking in tailgate carrying crib on her shoulder. She tripped on cap piece under a crib and fell down on left knee. Twisted left knee. Installing accidental roof support in 11 west tailgate.

Struck against stationary object

Walking by dust tank and had head down. Hit cable hanger with hard hat and jammed neck. Resulted in strained muscles in neck.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was filling duster at jaws. He picked up a 50 lb bag of rock dust and felt a pain above his right leg in groin area. Employee had hernia surgery.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Moving prop sitter by self. While lifting, rib fell close by causing him to twist to run.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was dragging rock dust hose, caught toe on wedge under rock dust and fell. Arm landed on wedge at the bottom of timber approx 12"" to 14"" above floor, hurting right shoulder. Employee to undergo rotator cuff surgery.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE was pulling vent tube towards trash trailer and slipped and fell down, hurting left knee. EE is to have surgery on 3/27/08.

Struck by falling object

EE was moving mobile stairs. The stairs got stuck and she bent over to get stairs free, her hard hat fell off. The stairs bumped a hose and the hose fell and struck her on the right side of her head, 7 stitches to close laceration.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was working outby the longwall face at a shield repair station. He was trying to remove a side shield pin. The pin is spring loaded and when he rotated pin it came out and smashed his right index finger and left thumb against the side shield. Fracture to tip of right finger and lost nail by left thumb.

2007 · 17 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

The tailgate traveway was blocked to floor level and additional roof support in the #3 entry of lowest inby spad #35 to 00 between the #21 and 22 X-cut for a distance of 200'. No one was injured and the section went under our blockage plan.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

The scoop operator was pulling a belt skid, full of belt hardware, for a belt move. A piece of belt hardware fell out of the skid. The EE got out of the scoop; when he moved the spreader bar from between the rib and skid, the skid moved over his left foot. This resulted in a fracture on top of his foot.

Accident type, without injuries

A small amount of rock fell above the anchorage (6' Bolt) between the Barrell can cribs from around the 10' cable bolt. The fall was inby the face, just outby the last shield in # 3 entry of 1 west. The fall measured 8' long x 4' wide x 6' to 8' high.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was pulling cable bolts out of a bundle and felt some discomfort in groin area. The bolts were on the mine floor. Hernia.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Removing broken can crib from 10 west tailgate walkway. Employee was using a chain and come-along, when the chain broke. Employee was hit by come-along in the lower left side, resulting in a broken rib.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred in the 11 west longwall tailgate. The fall was between the face and the cribs in the #3 entry of 10 west. The fall was 5' wide, 60' long and 4' high. The walkway was blocked.

Struck against a moving object

The EE was moving manlift from inside the manbasket in the surface yard. The platform was tilted down and wouldn't return to a level position, so he placed the manbasket on a shield and applied downward pressure with the machine. The manbasket slid off the shield, hitting the ground. The EE fractured his right foot above his ankle.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was operatng Getman tractor, hauling pod duster into the mine. Lost control on wet road and jack knifed at bottom of slope. Canopy caught on tunnel liner and crushed cab. Employee bruised his neck and back from the impact.

Accident type, without injuries

EE was drilling 12' cable bolt hole, when he pushed the spinner wrench through the pre-stamped hole in the roof mat. The drill steel extension opened up the hole in the mat causing heating or sparks, resulting in an ignition of methane around the drill hole. The methane was put out with water & fire extinguisher.

Struck by falling object

Corner of rib fell from behind rib screen in 10 west longwall #1 entry. EE's hand was caught betweend rib screen & stageloader. Surgery to repair tendon in hand & x-rays later showed broken wrist.

Struck by falling object

Removing DA ram from shelf in warehouse by hand with help of 2nd EE. EE dropped ram on upper leg. Deep bruise.

Struck by falling object

Employee was picking up drill steel off the ground when a second steel fell out of the drill hole and landed on the back of his hand. Fracture to left hand.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occured on 10 west lw tailgate between the can crib and the last shield the fall measured 5' high, 5' wide and for a distance of 5 feet the tailgate travel way was blocked and blockage plan inplemented.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was found in the 8 west bleeder between the #1 and #2 entry at x-cut 44. The fall measured 40' long x 18' wide and 6 1/2 to 7' high.

Struck by falling object

Installing arches on 2 1/2 foot centers under supported top in 10 west longwall headgate areas for longwall recovery. Employee was installing bolts in arch when rib fell hitting him on side of head. 4 to 5 inch laceration on side of head.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was standing in scoop bucket and slipped on wet foam twisting his left knee.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred inby #25 x-cut in the #1 entry of 10 west. The fall measured 8' high x 18 feet wide and 30 feet long.

2006 · 23 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred at crosscut 14 of lowest between the #2 and #3 entry. The fall was over 8' high, 16' wide and 40-45' long. Additional support had been installed and water was observed coming out of mine roof.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

The EE had his hand outside the canopy and caught his hand between the canopy and rib. Laceration on left index finger, 20 stitches to close the wound.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred between #32 and #33 crosscut in the #2 entry of 10 west. The fall was 18' wide, 50 feet long, 7 to 8 feet high.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred in the #2 entry of 10 west between 29 and 30 crosscut. The fall measured 6.5 to 7 feet high, 16 feet wide and 6 feet long.

Accident type, without injuries

A non injury roof fall in the #3 entry on 9 west is blocking travel and safe access off the 10 west LWTG. The rock fell around the bolts and cribs. 4' to 6' high x 16' wide x 15' long. 32 to 33 x-cut.

Accident type, without injuries

A non injury roof fall occurred in the #30 x-cut of 10 west between the #1 and #2 entry. The fall measured 18' wide x 20' long and 6 to 6 1/2' high.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was putting discharge line in entry. Went to move pump that was frozen to ground. Broke pump loose and moved straining lower back.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof material was flushing off headgate shields, filling up shields and blocking walkway along stage loader inby 31 x-cut 10 west.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Longwall crew hooked up a chain to the shear and to shield to pull the shield sidways. After pulling the shield, the sheer operator trammed the shearer the wrong direction and the chain broke, hitting foreman in the chest.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Lowering handyman jack after raising belt hardware, hand slipped off handle, striking employee's safety glasses which cut right eye lid.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Pulling sheave drum sprays' slipped in pan line and twisted left knee.

Struck by falling object

Employee was inserting a roof bolt thru the rib screen in a pre-drilled hole, when the rib fell striking his right knee and ankle.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

While pulling 4"" black pipe out of return, coupler hung up. pipe came apart. Pipe came through man door hitting employee in chest, knocking him down.

Struck by falling object

Standing under ventilation tubes while removing them, he cut the wire that was holding them up. Ventilation tube fell on his head.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was adjusting vent tubing when a piece of rock fell from behind the rib screen and hit him on his hard hat, jamming his neck and back.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS PULLING DOWN RIB SCREEN, RIB FELL, HITTING SCREEN INTO EE'S NOSE. 1"" LACERATION. RIB SCREEN WAS 30FT OUTBY LONGWALL FACE IN THE BELT ENTRY.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was carrying a prop setter jack from #2 entry to #1 entry and stepped in a hole, jarring his lower back.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employe was inserting nip into power center - receptacle for belt drive, felt pain in right groin. Possible hernia.

Struck against stationary object

STEPPED OFF ROCK DUSTER ONTO PIECE OF COAL, BURIED UNDER ROCK DUST & TWISTED LEFT ANKLE.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Walking around emulsion pump - right knee caught - made a ""popping"" sound - knee strain.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Stacking 24"" vent tube in crosscut, felt ""pop"" in left shoulder, strain.

Accident type, without injuries

A false roof had been installed in the belt entry of 8 west between x-cut 30 and 32. After a roof fall on 12/15/2005 at x-cut 31, a rib fall above the false roof damaged the false roof between the stage loader and the face.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Helping with miner cable, slung cable and felt muscle pull in left shoulder.

2005 · 23 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred on the 8th west belt line at x-cut 31 in the #1 entry 200' out by the longwall face. The fall was 40' long x 18' wide x 6' to 7' high.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Walking in section, twisted left ankle.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee reported that he was in the shower when a toilet was flushed, the water turned hot and he jumped from under the shower and slipped and caught himself with right arm. Employee reported shoulder pain.

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY METHANE IGNITION IN THE #2 ENTRY, INBY #23 CROSSCUT OF 8 WEST. A TRUSS LEG WAS BEING DRILLED THRU A HOLE IN ROOF PAN. AN EXTENSION WAS ADDED TO THE DRILL STEEL. THE SPINNER WRENCH RUBBED ON THE ROOF PAN IGNITING CH4 BLEEDER COMING OUT OF DRILL HOLE. THE FLAME TRAVELLED 15' TO FACE, THEN WENT OUT ON ITS OWN

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY ROOF FALL WAS FOUND BY THE CREWS TRAVELING INTO THE SECTION. THE FALL WAS LOCATED AT THE #32 X-CUT OF THE WEST MAINS IN THE #2 ENTRY. THE FALL MEASURED 20' LONG X 6 1/2' HIGH AND 40' WIDE.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occured on CU 3 beltline. The fall was located in the #3 entry at x-cut 30 of the west mains. The fall measured 60' long by 20' wide and 6-12' high.

Struck by falling object

A piece of coal fell over the rib screen, hitting the ee on the left knee, re-injured the knee he had hurt at home the week before

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Walking up face, he tripped over shield to shield hose, fell down and twisted right knee.

Accident type, without injuries

Fire boss found roof fall on weekly examination of mine. The fall was in the #7 entry at x-cut 30 of the north mains. The fall measured 40' long 20' wide and 6-8' high.

Struck by falling object

Employee had just topped a can and was standing by that crew when the next can was set 10 feet out by. The can setter rolled into the can set out by and it fell striking the employee in the right shoulder. This resulted in a fracture tot he right shoulder blade.

Accident type, without injuries

PRESSURE BOUNCES IN 4 WEST TAILGATE RESULTING IN FLOOR HEAVE BETWEEN 5 AND 6 X-CUT #3 ENTRY. UNSAFE TRAVELWAY OFF 5TH WEST LONGWALL PANEL, MMU 010. FOR A DISTANCE OF 50 TO 75 FEET.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

INSTALLATION OF BELT DRIVE. EE WAS INSTALLING COVER OVER WINCH BRAKE. EE STEPPED OVER AND SLIPPED OFF THE EDGE OF DRIVE. HIT ON LEFT KNEE; KNEE STRAIN.

Accident type, without injuries

A non injury roof fall occurred in the 5th west longwall tailgate entry. The fall measured from the last shield outby for 12 feet. 6' high, and 19 1/2' wide. Burrell cars are located in the tailgate entry.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall was found by the fireboss on his weekly examination. The fall was in the west mains #1 entry at x-cut 30. The fall measured 25' by 25' and 6 to 6 1/2' high.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Aggravated old knee injury while walking in section, left knee cap hurts when walking uphill or downhill.

Struck by falling object

Working on gob plate in tailgate, rock fell between shields and hit ee between shoulder blades on upper back. No cuts just bruises.

Accident type, without injuries

a non injury roof fall in #7 entry between #26 and #25 crosscut of the west mains. 20' long x 18' wide x 7 1/2 to 8' high.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Employees had installed double row of timber inby x-cut 25 in #1 entry of West Mains. And were setting the last timber on breaker row 20' outby roof fall. The inby roof fall caved higher taking out the brow and double breaker row. The employee fled but was knocked down and his foot was pinned by rock. Compound fracture left lower leg.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Removing vic coupler from 8"" wter line. When the coupler came apart the pipe dropped on the other end out of the chain hanger, lifting the pipe and pinched EE's finger between the roof and pipe. The finger was smashed and broken. EE decided to have finger amputated behind first knuckle.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While loading material (belt splicing equipment) in a pickup employee strained his back.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred in the 5th west, longwall, MMU-010. In the #1 entry from the shield tips outby for 12 to 15 feet 6 1/2 to 7' high and 18 feet wide. Travel was blocked off longwall face. (Outby crosscut 24)

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was helping mechanic trouble shoot suction problem on roof bolter. EE was checking automatic dump box, when he asked the operator to close the box. The box lid closed on his right middle finger tip.

Accident type, without injuries

A non-injury roof fall occurred in the 5th west longwall MMU 010, in the #1 entry from the shield tips outby for 33 feet. The fall measured 6 1/2' to 8' high, 18' wide. Additional roof support had been installed in the entry.

2004 · 30 incidents

Struck against stationary object

EE reported that he twisted his left knee after stepping on a chunk of coal lying in the roadway in his section.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was carrying timber and shoveling coal and felt pain in right shoulder. Getting physical therapy for pain.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Three employees were working to remove a cable tray from the stageloader. Victim was holding the nut on the last bolt when, as the bolt was loosened, the tray swiveled smashing his little finger on his right hand. He received two lacerations (about 1 1/2"") and a fracture. Five stitches and a brace for the finger.

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

EE WAS THROWING MINER CABLE OFF MINER WHEN EE FELT PAIN IN LEFT SHOULDER.

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY BUMP OCCURED IN THE 4 WEST TAILGATE, MMM-010 BETWEEN #7 AND #8 CROSSCUT IN THE #3 EXIT. VENTILATION CONTROLS WERE DAMAGED AND OUT 1 HOUR, WAS REQUIRED TO RESTORE A STEPPING AND SECTION REGULATOR.

Accident type, without injuries

A bounce occured in the tailgate of the 4 west panel, mmu 010 between #8 and #9 x-cut.

Accident type, without injuries

A BOUNCE OCCURRED IN 3 WEST TAILGATE X-CUT 9 INBY TO LW, 4 WEST PANEL MMU, 010, A DISTANCE OF 50' TO FACE. VENTILATION CONTROLS WERE DAMAGED AND OVER 1 HOUR WAS REQUIRED TO RESTOR VENTILATION TO THE LONGWALL FACE. MSHA WAS NOTIFIED AND INVESTIGATED.

Accident type, without injuries

AN EXAMINATION OF THE 3W TAILGATE FOUND DETERIORATING ROOF AND RIBS IN TEH #2 AND #3 ENTRY INBY X-CUT 8. THE LONGWALL TRAVELWAY WAS UNSAFE AND THE SECTION WAS NOTIFIED AND IMPLEMENTED TAILGATE BLOCKAGE PLAN. MSHA WAS NOTIFIED AND INVESTIGATED.

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY ROOF FALL OCCURED IN THE WEST MAINS. INTAKE ROADWAY AT X-CUT 11, THE #2 ENTRY. FALL MEASURED 24' LONG BY 20' WIDE, 6 1/2 TO 7' HIGH.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE injured his elbow while attempting to remove a fitting on the roof bolter in 5 west section. He was working on removing flow meter when he felt/ heard a pop in his left arm below the elbow.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS HOOKING CHAIN FROM TAILGATE DRIVE TO SHIELD WHEN A PIECE OF ROCK FELL FROM THE ROOF, HIT THE TOP OF THE TAILGATE DRIVE AND LANDED ON THE BACK OF EE'S LEG. THIS RESULTED IN A COMPOUND FRACTURE TO EE'S LOWER LEFT LEG.

Struck against a moving object

PAIN IN LOWER BACK AND LEFT LEG. EMPLOYEE BELIEVES PAIN CAUSED BY RIDING ON TRACTOR WITH FOAM FILLED TIRES BOUNCING AND JARRING FROM HOLES IN ROADWAY.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EMPLOYEE BENT OVER TO LIFT A TIMBER ONTO A CAP PIECE IN PREPARATION TO CUT IT WHEN HE FELT PAIN IN HIS BACK. BACK STRAIN, MEDICAL TREATMENT, PHYSICAL THERAPY.

Struck by falling object

RIB SCREEN WAS BEING INSTALLED WHEN THE BOLTER OPERATOR DROPPED THE DRILL STEEL. EE BENT OVER TO GET STEEL AND A PIECE OF ROCK FELL OUT OF THE ROOF STRIKING HIM ON THE RT. FOOT. 20 STITCHES WERE REQUIRED TO CLOSE THE LACERATION.

Struck against a moving object

EMPLOYEE REPORTED TO HIS FOREMAN AT THE BATH HOUSE AFTER HIS SHIFT, WHILE HE WAS OPERATING THE SHUTTLE CAR ON HIS SHIFT HE HIT A HOLE IN THE ROADWAY & HIS HEAD STRUCK THE ROOF OF THE CAB. NECK STRAIN.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EMPLOYEE WAS HELPING LIFT HIGH VOLTAGE CABLE ONTO TRAILER AND FELT PAIN IN MID-SECTION. SCHEDULED FOR HERNIA SURGERY

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

EMPLOYEE WAS INSTALLING RIB SCREEN IN THE 5 WEST MINE SECTION MMU-001, WHEN THERE WAS A RIB ROLL THAT PINCHED HIS RT. FINGER BETWEEN A PIECE OF COAL & THE BOLTER. EE'S FINGER REQUIRED 6 STAPLES TO CLOSE THE LACERATION.

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY ROOF FALL OCCURED IN THE WEST MAINS RETURN IN THE #7 ENTRY X-CUT 29. THE FALL MEASURED 25'LONG X 14'WIDE X 8-12'HIGH. ADDITIONAL ROOF SUPPORT HAD BEEN INSTALLED ON THE LOW SIDE OF ENTRY AND IN THE X-CUT 1-2 ENTRY.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

ROOF BOLTING IN CAVE AREA, WHILE INSTALLING A 6' ROD BOLT INTO HOLE EE HAD DRILLED, FELT PAIN IN LEFT SHOULDER & ARM PIT. WENT TO DR,DR SUGGESTED PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR 1 WEEK AND THEN REEVALUATE.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS WALKING AWAY FROM THE FACE AFTER INSTALLING VENT TUBES WHEN A PIECE OF COAL, 3'X3'X 1' FELL OFF THE RIB HITTING EE IN THE NECK AND BACK OF LEGS. FINISHED SHIFT, WENT IN FOR XRAYS AND IS WAITING FOR RE-EVALUATING. 5/5/04 OFF FOR STIFF NECK NECK. WAITING FOR RELEASE

Struck by falling object

WAS LOWERING HIS DIRTY CLOTHES BASKET AND HOOKED SECOND CLOTHES BASKET, EYE BOLT BROKE ON 2ND BASKET & FELL HITTING EE ON TOP OF HEAD. 2 & 1/2"" LACERATION, 9 STITCHES TO CLOSE WOUND.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

WHILE LIFTING A TOP ROLLER DURING A BELT MOVE, EE PULLED A MUSCLE IN HIS RIGHT GROIN AREA. HERNIA SURGERY 5/7/04.

Accident type, without injuries

A NON-INJURY ROOF FALL OCCURRED IN WEST MAINS MINER SECTION MMU 002, IN THE #2 ENTRY X-CUT 27. THE FALL MEASURED 31' LONG X 46' WIDE X 8' TO 12' HIGH.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS POSITIONED BETWEEN BOLTER AND LEFT RIB INSTALLING A RIB SCREEN WHEN A PIECE OF COAL 30"" LONG, 7"" THICK AND 10"" WIDE FELL OFF THE RIB HITTING HIM ON THE HEAD AND FACE AND SLID DOWN HIS RIGHT ARM. 1"" CUT UNDER RIGHT EYE AND 2"" CUT ON RIGHT ARM. STITCHES TO CLOSE LACERATIONS ON FACE AND ARM.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

WHEN PULLING OUT SLIDE IMPACT ROLLER FROM UNDER WASTE BELT, ROLLER SLIPPED AND PINCHED RIGHT RING FINGER BETWEEN SLIDE AND FRAME. FOUR STITCHES TO CLOSE LACERATION.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS ASSISTING IN SETTING STEEL ARCHES AT THE RETURN AIR SHAFT. HE WAS GUIDING THE 3 1/2 SCOOP INTO THE LEG ON THE ARCH TO INSTALL THE SPREADER PIPE AND BOLT. AS THE LEG WAS MOVED IN, HE PLACED HIS R. MIDDLE FINGER BETWEEN THE PIPE AND ARCH, RESULTING IN THE TIP OF HIS FINGER BEING AMPUTATED. EE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND THE FINGERTIP WAS REATTACHED.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE & CO-WORKER WERE CUTTING A TIMBER, ABOUT HALFWAY THROUGH THE TIMBER THE BLADE BOUND RIP IN THE CUT AND WHEN IT CAME FREE THE BLADE CAME OUT OF THE CUT LANDING ON EE'S LEFT THUMB CAUSING A LACERATION. RECEIVED STITCHES TO CLSOE WOUND. ""1 INCH LONG""

Accident type, without injuries

The #1 shield was pulled in on 3 west LW MMU 010, and rock came off t he shield, knocking out timber between the shield and crib built in the walkway, the distance measured 6 1/2 feet between shield and crib. The time to replace the timber was 18 minutes, impeading travel off the face.

Accident type, without injuries

EE was drilling in the #2 face of the west mains MMU 002. The roof had fallen in a dome slope while being mined and measured to be 14' high. Roof mats and screen were installed, while drilling for a roof bolt, the wrench heated the roof pan and sparks from the wrench resulted in a small ignition of methane.

Accident type, without injuries

Due to roof conditions and and floor heave the #1 shield tip on the 3 west LW MMU 010 was resting on the H6 drive. Wooden crib was installed to protect the travelway along the stageloader. Rock was removed off the shields to raise the #1 shield. An MSHA investigation found that safe passage may have been impeded off the face.

2003 · 8 incidents

No Value Found

EE CLAMED THAT HE HIT A RUT WHILE OPERATING HIS SHUTTLE CAR CAUSING AN INJURY TO HIS LOWER BACK, HIP AREA. THE EE DID NOT REPORT THE INJURY TO HIS FOREMAN DURING HIS SHIFT - CALLED IN THE NEXT DAY BEFORE HIS SHIFT STARTED.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

EE WAS UNHOOKING SKID FROM WAGNER SCOOP, WHEN THE RAM CAME FORWARD AND PINCHED LITTLE FINGER ON LEFT HAND WHILE HE WAS UNHOOKING CHAIN. LACERATION WHICH REQUIRED 7 STICHES TO CLOSE WOUND.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS REMOVING PIN IN DOOR, WHEN PIN CAME OUT, DOOR HIT ANKLE AND LEFT INDEX FINGER. FRACTURE TO LEFT INDEX FINGER AND HAIRLINE FRACTURE TO LEFT ANKLE. (INSPECTION DOOR TO VIEW FACE CONVEYOR) .

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EE BELEIVES HE MAY HAVE INJURED HIS BACK WHILE INSTALLING PANS ON THE LONGWALL FACE. HE WAS CARRYING A BAG OF PARTS AND TWISTED HIS BACK WHEN SETTING THEM DOWN.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS PUTTING UP RIB SCREEN ON THE SIDE OF THE BOLTER TO BE INSTALLED BY THE BOTHERS WHEN A 2"" X 2"" PIECE OF ROCK FELL BETWEEN THE RIB AND THE ROOF SCREEN, HITTING HIM IN THE UPPER LIP. THREE INTERNAL AND SEVERAL EXTERNAL STITCHES WERE REQUIRED TO CLOSE THE WOUND.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

WHILE LIFTING THE TAILGATE SHEER DOWN DRIVE INTO POSITION DOWN DRIVE SHIFTED CAUSING COME-ALONG CHAIN TO SLIDE CATCHING FINGER BETWEEN CHAIN AND DOWN DRIVE AMPUTATION BELOW FIRST KNUCKLE ON LEFT LITTLE FINGER.

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

OPERATING CABLE COME-A-LONG MOVING SHEARER, RELEASING LATCH OF COME-A-LONG & PUSHING ON HANDLE OF COME-A-LONG. HANDLE RELEASED HITTING LEFT WRIST AGAINST SHIELD.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS CARRYING 2 BUCKETS OF SEALANT, STEPPED ONA CHUNK OF COAL THAT WAS UNDER ROCKDUST AND TWISTED HIS LEFT KNEE.