Mining Incidents

Upper Big Branch Mine-SouthCoal

Naoma, Raleigh County, WV · Abandoned and Sealed
MSHA Mine ID: 4608436
Fatalities
29
Total incidents
200
Years on record
2004–2012
Latest incident
Aug 2012

Fatalities at this mine

29 recorded
Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

Victim died as a result of an explosion, cause unkown at this time. Received notification on 4/5/2010 that our employee was missing. Received notification late 4/6/2010 that employee was deceased.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatally injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Struck by concussion

During a mine explosion EE was fatality injured.

Reportable incidents

171 on file (excluding fatalities above)

2012 · 2 incidents

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

While cutting weeds Contractor was stung multiple times by bees.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was diagnosed with Occupational Pneumoconiosis.

2011 · 8 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

An unplanned roof fall has occurred at Old Parallel Mains 2 breaks inby spad 21649. The roof fall was approximately 20' x 20' x 5'-6'. No injuries were reported and no equipment was involved.

Accident type, without injuries

An unplanned roof fall has occurred at the Old North Mains Return inby spad 6730. The roof fall was approximately 40' x 17' x 4'. No injuries were reported and no equipment was involved. This is a travel way used for weekly checks of seals along the Old North Return. A walkway will be made over the fall using sand jacks.

Accident type, without injuries

An unplanned roof fall has occurred at #84 break #3 Track Entry Spad 6906. The roof fall was approximately 20ft x 20ft x 6ft. No injuries were reported and no equipment was involved.

Struck by falling object

As Employee was carrying a sand jack he tripped and fell. The sand jack fell on Employee and struck him in his lower back. Employee was treated at Raleigh General Hospital.

Accident type, without injuries

While mine fire boss examiner was traveling intake with MSHA inspector for the weekly exam a continuation of an existing roof fall was discovered. The fall fell thru two thirds of adjacent intersection. Ventilation and travel was not impeded. Area was dangered off. Spad #19284.

Accident type, without injuries

While mine fireboss examiner was traveling the weekly intake travel way with MSHA inspector a roof fall was discovered in #1 enty at 66 break. Fall measured approx. 4' high, 20' wide and 35' long. Area is under 103 K order and was dangered off. Ventilation and travel is not impeded.

Accident type, without injuries

While mine fire boss examiner was traveling the weekly intake travelway with MSHA inspector a roof fall was discovered in #6 entry at 70 breakacross 5 north belt. Fall measured approximately 4.5'high, 20'wide and 40'long. Area is under 103 K order and was dangered off. Ventilation and travel is not impeded.

Accident type, without injuries

During his weekly examination the fire boss found a roof fall approximaterly 20' X 20' X 6' in an intersection near spad 20261. Ventilation and travel was not impaired and the fall has been danger off and will not be rehabilitated.

2010 · 24 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

During the Accident Investigation, a team encountered a roof fall at Spad 19443 in #6 entry of the Old North Mains. The approximate size is 18' wide x 20' long x 6' high. Ventilation/travel was not impaired. The fall will be breakered off.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was encountered on the weekly examination of the Parallel Mains. The roof fall is located at 35 break, near spad 20787. Travel/ventilation was not impaired. The approximate size is 18'wide X 100'long X 6'high. The area will be breakered off.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was encountered on the weekly examination of the Parallel Mains. The roof fall is located at 34 break, near spad 20786. Travel/ventilation was not impaired. The approximate size is 18'wide X 20'long X 4'high. The area will be breakered off.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was encountered on the weekly examination of the Parallel Mains. The roof fall is located at 24 break, near spad 20741. Travel/ventilation was not impaired. The approximate size is 18'wide X 60'long X 6'high. The area will be breakered off.

Accident type, without injuries

Foreman was traveling with MSHA inspector when roof fall was discovered in #3 entry 5 break of North Parrallel Mains intake near spad 21261. The intersection is being timbered off being there are other entries to travel and it was not a primary travel route.

Accident type, without injuries

During the examination on 9/10/10 at apporx 5:00am, a roof fall was discovered by EE and another EE, WVOMSH&T. The fall is located in the crosscut between 3 and 4 entries, near spad 679. The approximate dimensions are 20 feet wide X 25 feet long X 4 feet thick. The fall has been breakered off.

Accident type, without injuries

During the weekly examination of the North Parallel Mains aircourse, a roof fall was found in the #2 Entry at Spad 21286. The dimensions are 20' wide X 20' long X 4' high. The affected area was dangered off.

Accident type, without injuries

a roof fall was discovered during an inspection on a section that has not been examined since the accident on 4/5/10. the mine currently is under 103K order and was discovered by MASH, state and company officials. The fall was located just inby spad 24474 in primary escape way. Date the fall was discovered was 8/13/10

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Was tramming #10 mantrip inby traveling and heard a loud noise that came from the batteries. Stopped the mantrip, knocked the breaker, set the brake and got out of the mantrip. Stood up his foot slipped causing left knee to twist and pop. Has starting PT on 8/12/10 therefore making it a reportable accident. Member continues to work as scheduled.

Struck against stationary object

A member of the mine rescue team was walking with MSHA and State Investigators during examination of the mine accident on 4-5-2010. While walking in #1 entry inby 78 break airlock at 10 break he stepped on a cinder block and turned his left ankle. He continued his shift and performed mine rescue duties until 7-6-2010 and has begun physical therapy for a sprain.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member is filing claim for mental anguish since the mine explosion on 4/5/10.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Member claims smoke inhalation and toxic gas from explosion.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member is filing a claim of anxiety after the mine explosion on 4-5-2010.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member states anxiety attacks from disaster which occurred on 4/5/10.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

During a mine explosion employee was injured and taken to Raleigh General Hospital for evaluation.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

During a mine explosion employee was injured and was HealthNet to CAMC General Division for evaluation.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member was just underground approximately 300 feet when explosion occurred deep into the mine, when he stated he ran and twisted his right knee and inhalation of gas.

Accident type, without injuries

Unintentional roof fall approximately 3,000 ft outby face.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Member was pulling conduit on miner cable and started gradually feeling pain around his waist down to his groin area.

Struck by falling object

A piece of rock fell and struck EE on his left hand which resulted in six (6) stitches.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

A miner chose to exercise his Part 90 rights on 3/1/10, therefore the occupational illness is reportable.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured was building a stopping and while driving wedge above wall struck left index finger with a hammer.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall, one crosscut inby spad #24062 in the track entry. Fall was 2500' outby the Headgate. Fall was 20' X 20' X 7'. No injuries or equipment involved.

Struck by falling object

While setting timbers beside track along North Mains between mouth of 1 and Glory Hole, a member was holding timber and injured EE bent over to pick up a glut, when a piece of draw slate measuring approx 22""X28""X2"" thick shaped triangular struck his hard hat and head area and right hand in which 3 stitches in head and 3 in his hand.

2009 · 27 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Attempting to start pump located behind splitter box. When he attempted to walk around the splitter box through approximately 8 inches of water, his left knee gave out. Marfork Safety Department was informed employee returned to work but he called today 2/1/10 and reported he is scheduled for surgery 2/17/10.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall in the #1 Entry of the longwall at Spad 28+33. Fell out between the bolts on the stage loader crushed and blocked part of the primary escapeway. No injuries occured.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Replacing bottom roller hangers on the #1 section belt line. Employee lowered the bottom roller to install the hanger. As he pulled up on the hanger to hand it back on the belt rail his right index finger was pinched between the hanger and belt rail. Injured also felt pain in his right lower back and hip.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall in the #2 entry, primary escapeway. Fall was 40'X20'X8'. No injuries and no equipment involved.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Witnesses stated Injured was on the down wind side of bearing in fresh air when they smelled smoke. The Fireboss went to the belt line and found a hot bearing. They started spraying water on it to cool it down and injured inhaled smoke.

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

EE was using a slate bar to move a 60 lb. track rail that was loaded on a flat car, when it suddenly rolled causing his left hand to become pinched between the roof and the bar, fracturing his left little finger.

Struck by falling object

EE was helping secure a retaining fence on mt. face. He was working on a bench below workers located on top bench that were securing the same retaining fence. Debris was dislodged and fell from the top bench striking ee on his right shoulder/shoulder blade.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While loading the shuttle car, a small rock measuring 3"" long, 3"" wide and 1"" thick, came out of conveyor chain and struck continuous miner operator on left cheek and mouth which required 2 stitches.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Mantrip #2 was coming outside & cautioned to watch for #1 mantrip which was checking the belt. At airlock doors mantrip #1 was traveling back to track switch when it slid into mantrip #2 & member twisted right knee by getting tangled in nascar netting attempting to get in clear. Member continued working then had been seen by specialist & MRI & had meniscus tear.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Member stated that he was hanging the continuous miner cable across the roadway, when he felt pain in his arm (R). He did not report this incident to anyone, but went to doctor the next day and was taken off work by doctor until 7/8/09. Mine management was informed on 7/6/09 about the alledged accident, which no report was filed.

Struck by falling object

Member was in the process of putting drill steel against the roof to start drilling a hole, when a piece of rock measuring 0-1/2"" thick, 4"" wide and 12"" long, fell out and struck him on the side of his face, causing an abrasion to right side of face from below right eye and cheek and a laceration to his chin that required 4 stitches.

Struck by rolling or sliding object

Member had installed 1st row of bolts in #4 entry. He then installed a bolt in the next row and swung the drill head out to spot a bolt, when coal/rock rib measuring 14' L, 20"" T and H was 68"" struck members left leg, pinning his leg against the drill head near a panel switch. Left leg above knee received laceration & abrasion wound. Surgery repaired muscles and tendons.

Struck by falling object

Member was removing cinder blocks from an old stopping when a loose block fell from the stopping and caused a laceration to the middle finger on his right requiring 7 stitches.

Struck by falling object

While walking beside mantrip while laying track, 2 steel sandjacks fell over, member heard noise and raised both arms up and sand jacks struck arm and drove them on top of mantrip causing a laceration to his right index finger requiring 3 stitches.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While member was preparing to assist re entering the miner cable the hose clamp was damaged. As he pulled on the nut to loosen it from the packing gland his hand slipped causing lacerations to his right middle and ring fingers. Middle finger required 10 stitches.

Struck by falling object

Member was walking backwards caarrying a top roller 48"" belt structure when he tripped and fell landing on his backside. The top roller struck his lower left leg causing a sprain/contusion.

Struck against a moving object

Member was tramming shuttle car from #3 right crosscut toward #4 entry. As he was making the right hand turn the shuttle car struck the inby corner of #3 coal pillar causing a whiplash type injury to his head, neck, back & legs.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

We were marking off belt line for the longwall belt. We had to use a 12' ladder due to the height of the mine roof, while moving the ladder under some cables to reposition it the ladder slipped. While I was still holding onto ladder. Tearing rotary cup in my right shoulder.

Struck by falling object

Injury had started the continuous miner to prepare for bading shuttle car. The shuttle car opr. signaled for her to check her cable slack on the reel. After shutting miner off, she walked to shuttle car to check the cable slack when a piece of slate rock measuring 1' wide, 2' long, and 1"" thick struck the top of hard hat causing staving but not knocking her down.

Fall onto or against objects

While the member was carrying roof bolts from the middle of the machine toward the front tray of the bolter, he stepped in mud and tripped. The roof bolts he was carrying hit the rib keeping him from falling causing a strain to the middle portion of his back.

Struck by falling object

As injury was installing a roof bolt in the rib, he pulled the drill steel out of the hole, a piece of coal and rock measuring 48 inch long by 18 inch wide and 13 inch thick fell from the rib striking him on the left knee causing a contusion.

Struck by falling object

The employee was installing a roof bolt when a piece of rock and coal fell striking him on the back.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was cleaning the belt conveyor when a piece of rock that went thru on the belt came back and struck him of the left wrist.

Struck by falling object

The employee was out of the shuttle car cleaning out the deck when he was hit by a piece of coal in the back pushing him into the shuttle car injuring his right knee. Was diagnosed on 2/10/09 by a specialist after a MRI with a hyper-extended knee and remains off at this time.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The EE was helping load conveyor belt on a flat car, using a clamp called a Dick Bill. The clamp slipped off the wet conveyor belt, striking the EE in the lower left side.

Struck by falling object

The EE was riding in a track jeep, when a wood board that was hanging from the roof hit the EE on the head. The board had just been tore down by a supply motor and was not seen by the motor crew or the jeep operator. The board was removed.

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

The employee was removing a chain from belt stand when his left thumb was caught between the chain and the stand causing a laceration. The employee was wearing gloves at the time of this accident.

2008 · 19 incidents

Struck by falling object

The employee was pulling a loose rib with a slate bar. As the rib fell, more rib fell than he had anticipated, hitting the slate bar causing the employee to twist his lower back. The employee was reffered to a specialist that ordered a CAT Scan. The specialist on Tuesday 1/6/09, after getting the CAT Scan results, released the employee to return to work on 1/12/09.

Accident type, without injuries

Had roof fall on #2 section, #5 entry, 35' x 18' x 6'. Fall was 15' from active face in the intake on the section. No injuries.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Person was lifting large piece of rock with a slate bar on top of miner when the bar slipped causing him to twist his lower back causing an injury. Was diagnosed with a strained muscle by a orthopedic specialist on 10-22-08.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

The employee was walking when she fell down fracturing right leg and ankle.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall old #1 Mains intake # Entry 80 ft x 18 ' x 4.5 thick Near spad 21260

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

He was trying to keep belt from twisting when a belt stand got stuck in the belt and swung around and hit him in the face causing a laceration.

Fall from piled material

Employee was using a jackhammer busting up concrete next to a sloped bank. He apparently stepped on some loose rock or slipped and slid down the embankment bruising his lower back.

Struck against stationary object

The mantrip came off track and slid for 50', then hit the corner of a coal block. Initial derail knocked his hat off and second impact slammed head into battery lid.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member was making belt spice with co-worker. Co-worker struck member's right index finger with hammer, causing multiple fractures and lacerations.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall 2 brks inby spad no. 21054 002 section # 4 Belt. Clean up plan posted. Ventilation slightly affected due to crushed out intake stopping. No injuries. Notified MSHA and state.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Member was lifting door and strained groin. Hernia will be repaired.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member was lifting miner cable and left knee popped out of place. Member was being assisted by 3rd shift foreman. Was seen by specialist on 4/15/08.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Member was attempting to hang miner cable and strained back. Member was being assisted by the section foreman and scoop operator while hanging cable.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was conducting fire boss exam. While EE was walking the #7 North mains conveyor belt, EE stepped in hole and twisted left knee.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was measured 20'x20'x5' thick. 3000 from face. 1 block outby 21087. Ventilation or passage was not affected, no injuries. Fall was phoned in to MSHA and state of WV.

Struck by falling object

Injured had received load onto his 10 S/C Joy Shuttle Car. Injured carried load to feeder and began discharging load, when a rock fell over sideboard, down into operators deck, striking his left little finger, which was on steering lever. Injured sustained a broken finger, with several lacerations.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was loading bolts supplies and felt pain in his groin. EE was transported to the ER and had an exam and was released with an appt to see a specialist, EE has hernia and is scheduled to have it repaired.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member was working on outby construction at the #7 North Head. Member was descending a step ladder and stumbled, twisting right knee. Worked up until 4/4/08. Ortopedic sugern will scope knee.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was walking on off side of scoop, when he stepped on a berm of a rut, causing him to loose his footing. EE completed his shift and drove himself to the hospital. Had X-rays which showed no evidence of a fracture and was referred to a specialist who diagnosed him with a severe sprain and removed him from work.

2007 · 17 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was in the track entry #3 on #2 section - nearest spad no. 21045. Fall was 20'L x 20'W x 54"" thick approx. 4,000' from the face. A clean-up plan is posted and fall was reported to both State & Federal Emergency Hotlines. No injuries occurred. No one was trapped.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was 100' L, 18' W & 4'H located in an abandoned area 10,000' from the nearest face. Area has to be traveled once weekly because it is a return. Clean-up plans posted. No injuries or air was affected.

Struck by rolling or sliding object

Injured was shoveling on the beltline when the coal rib rolled in on his legs and back causing bruises and contusions to his legs and back area.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was conducting maintenance work on the 12-12 continuous miner. While working He stood up and felt a pop in his right knee. He continued to work until 10/29/07 when he sought medical attention. He was referred to a specialist. field where he was approved for knee surgery on 12/20/07. He will undergo surgery in 2008.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was 80'L - 20'W - 5'H. No injuries and the passage was not blocked. Airway was not blocked. A clean-up plan was posted and all access points were breakered off. Fall was in the belt entry at #24 break #2 section spad #21477.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was in #2 entry, 2 section, one break outby spad #21233. Fall was 30' long X 20' wide X 4 1/2' thick, 2000' from face. No injuries or blocked passage to men. Area will not be cleaned up.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was 60' length - 20' width - 5' height. 4 ft fully grouted resin bolts were used. Fall was timbered off from all approaches. Not to be cleaned up. 2 section had moved approx. 14 days prior.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was building a bridge just outby 4 North head. When he turned to pick up a timber he felt pain in his back. He injured himself at 11:30 am and reported it at 3 pm. No witnesses were present. He visited specialist on 9/6/07 to confirm injury.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Ee is having trouble with pain in his hands.

Struck against stationary object

EE was walking from the section power center when he stepped on a slick piece of rock laying on the bottom causing him to twist his right knee. He was told to stay off his leg for a period of 1 week by medical personnel.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fall occurred on Headgate 18 #4 and #5 entry. The fall measured approx 20' wide, 6' thick and approx 3 brks long. Section was developed approx January of 2006. Supported with 6' torque tension bolts. Area has been dangered off and timbers and cribs to breaker off fall.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was unloading trash, lacerated his wrist with a metal band, while throwing trash in dumpster. 5 stitches.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured was walking to help employee work on the feeder on HG-18 and stepped on uneven bottom and twisted his right ankle. Has a partially torn achilles tendon in his right ankle/foot.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using a tank duster and was holding the discharge hose. The discharge hose became stopped up and blew off the main rock dust tank. The end struck EE on the bridge of the nose and caused a laceration.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall happened in #5 entry of north mains section at 44 brk. near spad pad #19093. fall was 15'x10'x4' thick. Approx 12000' from the fall. No ventalation was blocked or no injuries. Developed 11-10-04 using 4' resign bolts.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall happened at 58 bk of north mains section in 5 right entry. Nearest spad # 19288. Fall was 80'l 20'w 6' to 0 8' in thickness. no injuries or air bloced. no one was trapped no roadway blocked. area is timbered off and dangered off. 6' for tension bolts was primary support.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee attempted to pull a loose rock on the belt entry corner. He used a slate bar and pryed up the rock. The bar sprang back causing a laceration on his right hand. He was wearing gloves. He received 4 stitches in his right hand.

2006 · 25 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was approx 40'L X 20' W X 4'-6' thick. Torque tension bolts were the primary support. Fall was approx 15,000' from nearest face. No injury or blockage of ventilation. Fall will not be cleaned up. Cribs and timbers will be used to prohibit travel through area.

Fall onto or against objects

EE was in #1 entry hanging mine curtain when he slipped on some gob and cut his right hand from palm to point finger 3 to 4 inches. His 4 fingers were going numb and getting cold.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall exists at 83 break in 1 & 2 entries at spad #6904. Fall is approx 40' length, 19' wide and 6' thick at about 4000' to the face. 6' torque tension bolts were used in 1998 during development. Fall does not block airways or travel areas. It will be cleaned up after proper plans are made.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall happened on 160 break on North Mains section one break outby spad #2090. Fall was 1500' from the face, approx. 30'L, 20'W, 6' to 8' thick. Bolted with 4' fully grouted bolts and 6' torque tension bolts. No one was injured and no air ways were affected.

Accident type, without injuries

Fall happened in #3 entry at spad #19225-50 break.Fall was 40'l x 20'w x 4-6' thick. 6' torque tension bolts were in use. No injury or travel was blocked. Reported verbally (phon) to local MSHA office in Mt. Hope on 9/28/06.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Rock fell from roof measuring 48"" x 27"" x 4 1/2"" thick striking member on hard hat driving it down on nose. It then struck member on right foot.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was drilling a hole in the top with his roof bolter. When he finished the steel hung in the top. He reached for it and the steel fell from the hole pinching his hand against the drill pod.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was using a pick hammer to move rock and dirt from under the track rail to install track tie. Point end hit gravel and popped up hitting EE on the left front tooth causing a chip on tooth.

Accident type, without injuries

Top fell approx 400' from longwall pull out, in #1 entry which is travelway to EP's behing longwall. Fall will be cribbed to allow firebosses to travel to EP's behind longwall. Length of fall 140' x width 18' x thickness 6' to 8'. Permanent roof support 6' torque tension bolts.

Struck by rolling or sliding object

EE was setting timbers on the North Mains belt when a timber that was leaned against the rib slid off hitting him on the top of the foot. He suffered a contusion to the top of his left foot. See attached note.

Accident type, without injuries

This area has been abandoned due to poor conditions. Fall is 30' long x 18' wide x 4' thick. Was bolted with 4' torque tension bolts. No injuries, no blockage.

Accident type, without injuries

Rock fell in intersection only. Moved life line and reflectors around fall and dangered fall off. Timbers were set. Fall was approx 4' high. 4' brutter bolts were used. Length of fall was 18', width 18', thickness 4'. Nearest spad # 7182 one break outby. Fall did not affect ventilation and there were no injuries.

Struck by falling object

Shear was at #50 sheild with britby broken. Employee repaired it and was walking through the last open break when a piece of draw rock fell striking him on the left shoulder causing him to fall to the ground.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While trying to change a busted 3/8 hose on #75 shield, EE inadvertently broke the yield valve on the shield. The pressure was released and cut his hand on the palm below his left thumb. Stitches were required to seal the wound. After accident check showed that the pressure was turned off.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Muddy conditions existed around belt head that employee was working on. He stepped wrong in the mud and twisted his right knee. He worked until 8/5/06 before going to the doctor.

Accident type, without injuries

Roof fell in the break between #2 & #3 entry. This is located in the intake approx 1 break out by 5 spad #205H. This does not affect escapeways or travel or airways. Area has been cribbed off and dangered off. Additional supports have been placed in adjoining entries.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was shoveling belt and in the process twisted his right ankle. He stated he could walk, however, he could feel pain when his ankle turned a certain way.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was hitting a chisel with a sledgehammer trying to remove a broken bit from the Miner Ripper Head. The chisel splintered and a piece of metal went into EE's right hand between the fore finger & the index finger.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE has carpel tunnel in both hands. This is classified as degenerative disease.

Accident type, without injuries

LARGE AMOUNT OF WATER COMING OUT OF GLORY HOLE (LOCATED OUTBY NORTH MAINS SECTION). CONTINUOUS FLOW. SOURCE UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME. STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION.

Fall onto or against objects

Moving power cables to prepare powertrain for transport. Stumbled over rock while dragging cable, fell against another EE who was helping him. The other EE fell back on him twisting his right ankle.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Member was traveling through set of air lock doors on main intake. He shut the one set he came through and did not properly latch the door causing the door to blow back open striking him from behind. He said he would return to work on his next scheduled shift. He was off on 6 day rotation but failed to return to work.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EMPLOYEE WAS HANGING BUGGY ANCHOR, CHAIN CAME LOOSE CAUSING ANCHOR TO STRIKE EE IN THE MOUTH, CHIPPING HIS TOOTH.

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

Employee was pushing forks together on forklift. He lost his footing and his left hand went behind the fork. The fork came down and caught his hand between the fork and the frame.

Struck by falling object

EE was struck by a corner brow causing multiple severe lacerations and punctures and crushing injuries to his right foot. Also injured his back and right shoulder. The brow pulled away from the solid rib at the end of 2-4' torque tension bolts. EE stated that the brow gave no warning and he didn't have time to get away.

2005 · 31 incidents

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

SPLICING CABLE, KNIFE SLIPPED AND CUT LEFT THUMB. TRANSPORTED HIMSELF TO RALEIGH GENERAL HOSPITAL AND RECEIVED 7 STITCHES.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE STATED HE WAS STEPPING THROUGH A MANDOOR TO CONDUCT A PRE-SHIFT OF THE EP-22 AREA WHEN HE SPRAINED HIS RIGHT KNEE. AFTER HE SPRAINED HIS KNEE HE FELT SEVERE PAIN IN HIS KNEE AND LEG. HE TRANSPORTED HIMSELF OUTSIDE AND LEFT VIA AMBULANCE TO CHARLESTON GENERAL HOSPITAL WHERE X-RAYS WERE PERFORMED AND WERE NEGATIVE. HE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH TORN TENDONS BY HIS SPECIALIST.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee exited a Brookville motor in an attempt to place a mine phone along the track entry. He stepped up on a flat car and as he stepped off his right ankle rolled over producing a loud popping noise. The safety department was not notified of this accident until 12/2/05.

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

Employee was riding in a 5 passenger personnel carrier along with the operator. They had departed the motor bern traveling toward the south portal back switch. Upon reaching the switch they collided with another carrier resulting in employee's fingers getting smashed.

Struck by falling object

Ee was carrying a acetylene bottle from last open break toward tool cars. He tripped over half header and fell face first toward the mine floor. The actylene bottle fell against ee rt. hand.His rt middle finger was cut off at 1st joint and his rt. ring finger was cut and mashed. Finger was put in ice and sent to hospital. Unable to reattach finger.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was attempting to pry rock off of the top of a continuous miner with a slate bar. When the rock slipped causing continuous miner with a slate bar. When the rock slipped causing the other end of the bar to come up into his midchest area. He was admitted overnight at Raleight General Hospital for observation.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS WAITING ON HELPER TO SPOT A BOLT BEFORE ENTERING #2 LEFT TO BOLT WHEN A 12"" BY 12"" PIECE OF ROCK FELL BETWEEN BOLTS STRIKING OPERATOR ON THE HARD HAT BOUNCING OFF OF HAT STRIKING HIM IN THE RIGHT FOREARM CAUSING A LACERATION ABOUT 4"" LONG ON ARM. RECEIVED 17 STITCHES.

Struck by flying object

EE WAS OPERATING THE HEAD END OF THE SHEAR CUTTING TO HEAD AT ABOUT #40 SHIELD. THE CUTTING DRUM THREW A ROCK STRIKING HIS LEFT HAND FRACTURING HIS PINKY, RING AND MIDDLE FINGER.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS INSTALLING THE OUTSIDE BOLT WHEN A PIECE OF ROCK FELL MEASURING APPROX 2' X 2'. THE ROCK WAS VERY THIN AND HAD SHARP EDGES. THE ROCK BOUNCED OFF HIS CANOPY AND CUT HIS LEG AT THE TOP OF HIS THIGH (RIGHT LEG). HE MISSED SHIFT ON 9/16/05 DUE TO HIS WIFE HAVING BABY.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EMPLOYEE WAS LIFTING 2 BUCKETS OF STOPPING SEALANT. HIS FEET WERE STUCK IN THE MUD. AS HE TWISTED IN AN ATTEMPT TO FREE HIMSELF HE STRAINED HIS BACK.

Struck against stationary object

Employee and co-workers had loaded a longwall shield onto a flat car. Employee reached his right arm under the shield to remove a hook-up chain and as he pulled his arm out the top of his forearm grazed a metal burr, lacerating his arm.

Struck by flying object

Employee was located in the #6 face installing roof bolts. A piece of rock fell striking the drill mast and then bouncing up lacerating his left cheek. This accident occurred on the North Mains Section. Employee was on holiday weekend on 9/3 thru 9/5.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

TWO EMPLOYEES WERE TRYING TO GET PUMP PRESSURE FROM GLUT TO FACE AREA. INJURED WAS TURNING #3 VALVE ABOUT 1/4 TURN WHEN PRESSURE CAUSED GLUT TO BREAK CHAIN THAT HELD GLUT TO MONORAIL. GLUT KNOCKED BOTH TO THE GROUND. EE SAID GLUT HIT INJURED IN THE HEAD. X-RAY SHOWED FRACTURE IN NECK. ALSO RECEIVED SUTURES.

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

After completing a belt move, Injured and another employee were palnning to build an intake stopping.Helper set the bucket down on the 35-c scoop pinching injured's right foot at the tip end of the metatarsal. Only the 2 smallest toes on right foot were bruised.

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

EE PICKED UP A LARGE PIECE OF COAL THAT WAS ON THE MINER CABLE AND THREW IT, CATCHING HIS MIDDLE FINGER BETWEEN PIECE OF COAL AND RIB.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS CUTTING OFF A BIT LUG FROM A CONT MINER. HE STRUCK THE BIT LUG WITH A SLEDGE HAMMER & A PIECE OF METAL WENT IN HIS LEFT THIGH. HE WAS TRANSPORTED TO HOSP AND TREATED, THEN REFERRED TO A SPECIALIST. THE SPECIALIST DETERMINED THAT THE METAL SHOULD BE LEFT ALONE.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using a hammer to knock strap off connecting link on a broken conveyor chain on the left miner. A piece of metal came off strap striking him in neck.

Accident type, without injuries

FALL OCCURED IN FACE OF #6 ENTRY WHICH IS BUTTED OFF IN FACE AND WILL BE CLEANED UP ON CYCLE AFTER OFFICIALS FROM MSHA AND STATE EXAMINE AREA. THE APPROACHES TO THE FAL WERE SPOT BOLTED WITH 8' CABLE BOLTS. LOCATION: NORTH MAINS #6 ENTRY SPAD #20092

Accident type, without injuries

Fall was found #1 entry 95 break, longwall nearest spad #18581 the roof was supported by 6' torque tension bolts. The fall had no effect on ventilation or passage. No one was injured.

Accident type, without injuries

ALL APPROACHES HAVE BEEN TIMBERED OR CRIBBED. ROOF WAS SUPPORTED WITH 6' TORQUE TENSION BOLTS AND SPOTTED BY 8' CABLE BOLTS. FALL WILL BE CLEANED UP AND RE-BOLTED, USING 6' TORQUE TENSION BOLTS. AT NO TIME WILL ANY MEMBER BE BEYOND PERMANENT ROOF SUPPORT.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS MAKING CABLE SPLICE ON THE RIGHT BOLTER. AS EE WAS REMOVING INSULATION HIS KNIFE SLIPPED, CUTTING HIS LEFT THUMB. HE TRANSPORTED HIMSELF TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE HE RECEIVED STITCHES.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was trying to spread forks on CLA forklift with his co-worker. Co-worker dropped the fork that he had lifted up while EE was pushing. When co-worker dropped the fork it mashed EE's ring finger and middle finger. EE ceased work and transported himself to the hospital where they put stitches on fingers.

Struck by flying object

EE WAS MAKING CABLE SPLICE. HE STRUCK CABLE CRIMPER TOOL WITH HAMMER AND A PIECE CHIPPED OFF CRIMPING TOOL, STRIKING HIM IN HIS LEFT HAND. EE TRANSPORTED HIMSELF TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE THEY CLEANED THE AFFECTED AREA. (FIRST AID ONLY: PIECE OF METAL WAS LEFT IN EE'S HAND - MORE HARMFUL TO REMOVE THAN TO LEAVE IN, NO STITCHES, NO PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION.)

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS WELDING ON BELT TAILPIECE AT HEADGATE 20, BRK. 56, WHEN HE FELT SOMETHING ENTER HIS LEFT EYE. EE FLUSHED HIS EYE WITH WATER & CONTINUED HIS SHIFT. EE LATER TRANSPORTED HIMSELF TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT HIS PUPIL WAS SCRATCHED & THEY REMOVED A PIECE OF METAL, POSSIBLY A RUST FLAKE. PERFORMANCE SAFETY DEPT. WAS MADE AWARE OF THIS ACCIDENT ON 6/2/05.

Struck by falling object

EMPLOYEE WAS INSTALLING ROOF BOLTS IN THE 3RD RIGHT CROSSCUT. HE ADVANCED THE BOLTER TO INSTALL ANOTHER ROW OF BOLTS. WHILE STANDING AT HIS DRILL STATION WITH HIS RIGHT HAND ON THE DRILL STEEL TRAY A PIECE OF ROCK, 32"" X 24"" X 3"" FELL FROM THE MINE ROOF STRIKING HIS RIGHT PINKEY FINGER RESULTING IN A FRACTURE AND SIX SUTURES

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The crew were traveling to the north mains section in a mantrip on track. The conveyor line and track are in the same entry at the mine. As the personnel carrier traveled by the #4 belt drive a shovel lying on the tailpiece entered the carrier striking an employee in his left rib cage.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was tightening bolts on a shear panel, when his ratchet slipped striking him in the mouth chipping two of his teeth.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was attempting to trim the end off of a 2"" black plastic line when the edge of the line broke resulting in the utility knife slipping off striking his upper right forearm.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE WAS WALKING AROUND HEAD DRIVE & STEPPED ON #1 SHIELD RELAY BAR, SLIPPED & FELL. HE DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION UNTIL 8/17/05. DUE TO CONTINUAL EXPOSURE THIS INJURY HAS BEEN AGGRAVATED & HE IS NOW SEEKING MEDICAL ATTENTION. THIS INJURY IS BEING REQUESTED TO BE FILED AS AN OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS.

Struck by flying object

EE was changing bits on the longwall shear. Other ee was changing bit inserts, as other was removing a snap ring from the insert, the snap ring flew off the snap ring pliers striking ee in the mouth.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured was using a 1 1/2 ton chain hoist to pull the conveyer chain on a 10 s/c. The chain hoist was attached to a belt hanger and the chain. As the conveyer chain was pulled the hook attaching to the conveyer straightened out. The hook then flew striking the victim in the left rib cage.

2004 · 18 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

A ROOF FALL WAS DISCOVERED 600' OUTBY THE NORTH MAIN SECTION, MMU# 009 & MMU# 008. AREA AFFECTED MEASURED 30'L X 90'W X 4.5-5'THICK. THE AREA HAD BEEN SUPPORTED WITH 4,5 & 6'TENSION BOLTS.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

DIAGNOSED WITH CARPAL TUNNEL AND HAD SURGERY ON 12/14/04.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

INJURED WAS ATTEMPTING TO MOVE A 5-HP PUMP OUT OF THE SCOOP ROADWAY. AS HE LIFTED AND TURNED, HE FELT SOMETHING PULL IN HIS LOWER BACK.

Accident type, without injuries

A ROOF FALL OCCURRED IN THE #2 ENTRY 20'INBY SPAD 18586 ON HEADGATE 20. THE FALL MEASURED APPROX. 30'LONG X 20'WIDE X 8'HIGH. THE AREA WAS DEVELOPED ABOUT JULY, 2004. THE ROOF HAD BEEN SUPPORTED WITH 4'TORQUE TENSION BOLTS, SUPPLEMENTED WITH 8'CABLE BOLTS. THE FALL OCCURRED ON A NON-PRODUCING SECTION.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

INJURED WAS GETTING OUT OF #11 JEEP. HE PUT HIS LEFT LEG OUT FIRST WHEN IT BECAME STUCK IN THE MUD. THE AREA WAS WET AND MUDDY. AS HE TRIED TO GET HIS FOOT OUT OF THE MUD BY TWISTING AND PULLING UP, HE HEARD SOMETHING POP IN HIS LEFT KNEE.

Fall from machine

INJURED WAS DISMOUNTING FROM NW#2 BELT. HE HAD PLACED HIS LT. FOOT ON A TOP CONVEYOR RAIL WHILE HOLDING ONTO A STRUCTURE SUPPORT CHAIN. AS HE BEGAN TO STEP DOWN WITH HIS RT. FOOT, HIS LT. FOOT SLIPPED OFF THE RAIL & IN BETWEEN BELT & STRUCTURE, CAUSING HIM TO FALL. THE AREA WAS WET.

Accident type, without injuries

A ROOF FAILURE OCCURRED ON NORTH MAINS #3 ENTRY (TRACK ENTRY). THE FALL MEASURED 70'L X 19'W X 2.5-4' THICK. THE AREA HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN SUPPORTED WITH 4'RESIN BOLTS WITH CRIBBS. 45'INBY SPAD 6906.

Fall onto or against objects

INJURED STOPPED TO USE A TELEPHONE. WHEN HE HAD FINISHED HE WAS CROSSING BETWEEN TWO PARKED LOCOMOTIVES. HE STEPPED UPON THE COUPLERS WHEN HIS FOOT SLIPPED OFF CAUSING HIM TO FALL AGAINST THE FRONT BUMPER.

Struck by falling object

INJURED PLACED RIGHT HAND ON TRS FRAME TO HELP PULL HIMSELF UP INTO A WALK THROUGH BOLTER. HE HEARD ROCK ABOVE HIS HEAD START TO BREAK LOOSE FROM ROOF. HE STEPPED BACK AS THE ROCK FELL, THE ROCK GLAZED HIS RIGHT SCALP BUT CAUGHT HIS RIGHT HAND AGAINST FRAME.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

INJURED AND ANOTHER MAN WERE ATTEMPTING TO MOVE A ROCK MEASURING 35"" X 36"" X 46"" OUT OF MIDDLE OF TRACK. ON THE 2ND ATTEMPT THE WEIGHT OF THE ROCK SHIFTED TOWARD HIM. HE MOVED SUDDENLY AWAY FROM THE ROCK WHEN HE TWISTED HIS BACK.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EE HAD GONE TO BACK OF BOLTER TO GET A BOX OF RESIN GLUE. WHILE LIFTING THE BOX HE FELT A BURNING SENSATION IN HIS LOWER BACK.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured was helping install an 8' timber - when the timber touched the roof - a piece of rock measuring 2"" x 5"" x 15"" fell striking him on his miner's hat.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and had surgery on 6-16-04.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured was stepping out of a cont miner conveyer pan. As he put his right leg out of pan onto mine floor he felt a popping in his right knee. He was later diagnosed with soft tissue damage in the knee.

Flash burns (electric)

INJURED SUFFERED ELCTRICAL BURNS WHILE GETTING VOLTAGE READINGS ON #1 CONTINUOUS MINER RECEPTACLE. HE WAS TESTING WITH A FLUKE MEGOHMMETER MODEL 1520 THAT WAS RATED FOR 1000 VOLTS.

Struck against a moving object

INJURED HAD TAKEN #6 JEEP INSIDE AND HAD STOPPED TO OPEN AUTOMATIC AIRLOCK DOOR, WHEN HIS VEHICLE WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY ANOTHER MANTRIP.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE HAD JUST COMPLETED INSTALLING A TIRE ON #15 CAR. AS HE WAS WALKING BACK TO HIS TOOL BOX, HIS BACK STARTED TO HURT.

Struck by rolling or sliding object

INJURED WAS SETTING BITS IN SHEARDRUM, WHEN COAL ROLLED OUT FROM FACE AREA STRIKING HIM ON HIS RT. KNEE, IN FRONT OF #10 SHIELD.