Mining Incidents

AFFINITY MINECoal

Controlled by Metinvest B V
Midway, Raleigh County, WV · Active
MSHA Mine ID: 4608878
Fatalities
0
Total incidents
200
Years on record
2016–2026
Latest incident
Apr 2026
No fatalities recorded at this mine.

Reportable incidents

200 on file

2026 · 8 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

During the MSHA qtr. inspection while the cage was nearing the top and starting in the guides it jumped track and fouled. no one injured no one trapped. the hoist was operational at 4:08 PM.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The employee has received a 10% op award.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee whose last shift was 07-23-2015 was awarded a 5% op claim on 03-18-2026

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

The Employee was tramming the #11 Bolter from # 7 entry towards #6 entry. EE reached out to move EE's slack and ribbed the operators deck out crushing EE's hand. The employee has a fractured middle finger and partial amputation to the right pinky finger EE underwent surgery on the hand and received sutures.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

On 2-19-2026, during routine work activity, the employee experienced an acute onset of pain while making a standard movement (handling fly pads). No unusual event, accident, or hazardous condition was identified. The condition is the result of cumulative repetitive physical stress, with symptoms becoming acute on the reported date.

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

Employee was at the block hole on 1C belt between the track and scoop road. The employee was hand loading block when EE struck EE's left pinky finger between the corner of the scoop bucket and the block in EE's hand. it was approx 5'6'' high and damp in the area. the employee received 5 sutures and pain medication.

Accident type, without injuries

during the 90 day hoist check ice was observed on the shaft wall. the mine was evacuated until the ice was removed. the hoist was deemed operation on 02-01-2026 at 11:45 AM.

Struck by falling object

The Employee was bolting in the 6L punch through when a rock 4' Long X 2.5' wide and 7'' thick fell and struck them in the right lower leg. The area was 6.5' high and dry to damp.

2025 · 19 incidents

Struck against a moving object

On12-18-2025 EE was traveling on 302-rubber tire ride on 10 belt, ran off the rail jarring left wrist. a lunate dislocation, an avulsion fracture of triquetral bone. on 01-15-2026 inserting Kirschner wires, 3 sutures, valor resting splint. prescribed pain meds accident has been under investigation. on 1-27-2026 medical information was obtained confirming a reportable injury.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall occurred in the primary escapeway on the #2 section outby the feeder line. the fall was approximately 19 feet wide by 24 feet long and 5 feet thick in the #6 entry at the #8 break on the #2A beltline in the orchard #1 mains.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was making a splice on the welding cable at the section power center when the knife slipped and cut their left thumb. The employee received 4 stitches

Struck by falling object

The employee was on the #2 section installing a bolt 2 rows from the face of #5L. the entry was approx. 8' high and 18 ft wide. when the employee drooped the drill pot the 4' wrench fell striking them in the safety glasses causing a 1/2-inch cut below the left eye. the employee received 2 stitches.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was awarded 10% op claim

Struck by falling object

On the # 2 section the injured employee was attempting to pull slack out of the section belt to make a splice when the pull plate failed striking them in the left arm. The employee sustained a fractured to the radius bone and a laceration.

Struck by flying object

Employee was hanging fly pads between #3 and #4 entry. While looking up driving a nail they experienced watering and burning sensation in the left eye. when the employee got home and inspected their eye, they decided to be seen by a medical professional the piece of metal was removed, and they were prescribed medicated eye drops. the area was approximately 8' high and damp.

Accident type, without injuries

Service hoist went down due to an input output card going bad. It caused the brakes to set the pump would run but not build pressure to release the brakes. replaced the card and had to have lake shore reprogram the over travel. finished work at 10:30 AM

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was awarded 16.3 PPD hearing loss

Accident type, without injuries

input output card went down. The tips stuck in causing pressure to drop off accumulators. this caused the breaks to not release and fault the system out. The hoist was back operational at 10:10 PM on 07-18-2025

Struck by falling object

The employee was in the #9 entry on the # 3 section. EE was scaling the mine roof when a rock measuring 3 inches thick by 34 inches wide by 16 inches long fell striking them on the right boot. The area was approximately 6 feet high and damp. the employee suffered a fracture to a small bone on the side of the right foot just below the ankle.

Struck by falling object

The employee was bolting in the 6 left entry after installing EE's outside bolt a rock measuring 36'' Long by 32 inches wide, and approximately 2 inches thick fell striking the employee on EE's hip and lower left leg. The area was approx. 6 ft high and damp. The employee has a fracture above EE's left ankle and a spine compression fracture.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was awarded additional 15 percent Op claim

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was in the #4 entry at 2 brk on 7 B belt. The employee used a grinder to try and cut a piece of synthetic sheave rope. the grinding wheel kicked back causing a 2-inch laceration to the employees left hand between the thumb and pointer finger. the area was approx. 5 feet high and dry. the employee received 5 sutures.

Accident type, without injuries

Had a bad storm. Lightning hit our network and resulted in taking the plc, the display, and a sensor out on the controls for the E hoist. Components were replaced and reprogrammed.

Accident type, without injuries

The top Sheave cluster bearing went down. a loud pop was heard, and hoist was stopped. upon investigation it was determined the bearing was down. hoist was taken out of service and all employees evacuated.

Accident type, without injuries

Ice buildup was found on the shaft wall. The company decided to take the hoist out of service due to the risk of the ice falling. The Hoist was put back in service at 11:15 AM on 01-26-2025.

Accident type, without injuries

Ice fell from the shaft wall damaging the landing switch, step and handrail. De icer was applied and all ice was removed from the shaft wall. The switch, step, handrail, and landing sensor were repaired. The hoist was operational at 9:10 PM

Accident type, without injuries

During the weekly test it was found that a bottom landing switch was not working. A camera was sent down the shaft and ice was found on the shaft wall. De-icer was applied and the ice was removed. The hoist was operational at 9:42 PM on 1-13-2025

2024 · 17 incidents

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Former Employee was awarded 10% OP

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The Employee was awarded 10% op claim.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was reaching across the bolter and felt a pain in their left arm. Possible strained/tore soft tissue?

Accident type, without injuries

The Escape hoist had an electrical component issue. No one injured or trapped.

Accident type, without injuries

High Winds in the area due to hurricane weather from Florida caused several issues with our service providers lines. we do have backup generator power capability for the hoist. Line power has been restored at time of this report.

Struck by falling object

Employee was bolting in the #6R cut. Removing the steel from the outside bolt on the fifth row when a rock measuring 29.5'' X 28'' L X 3'' Thick fell striking the employee's right pinky finger. The entry was 19.5' wide x 73'' high and damp. Fracture to right Pinky requiring surgery.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The operator was notified on 09-12-2024 the employee was exercising the employee's part 90 rights.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was awarded 10% OP

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The employee was awarded 10% OP

Accident type, without injuries

While MHS&T were entering the hoist pit for the second time. one of the E-stop buttons would not reset and allow the hoist to function. No one hurt and no one trapped due to this occurrence.

Struck by falling object

Employee was scaling roof with a slate bar on the #1 section in the #4 and #4L entries. A piece of rock measuring 35""L X 24""W X 6"" thick fell striking the employee on the left foot. the entry was approximately 6' high and damp. contusion and swelling to the left foot.

Accident type, without injuries

Hoist went down for brake pressure fault. Trouble shot brake solenoids and found bad output cord that controls solenoids. Replaced output cord and fixed issue.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

""Employee Stated EE has experienced knee pain in the past and a few days ago the employee stood up and felt a more severe pain in EE's right knee unaware of any single event occurring to cause this. Employee is scheduled for an MRI

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EMPLOYEE WAS LOADING SUPPLIES ON BOLTER. EMPLOYEE WAS CARRYING BOLTS WHEN EE TRIPPED OVER TOE GUARD, LANDING ON GROUND FACE FIRST. EMPLOYEE WAS IN THE INTERSECTION OF #8 ENTRY. THE AREA WAS APPROXIMATELY 60"" HIGH AND DAMP.

Accident type, without injuries

Had a thunder and lightning storm come through the area. a lightning strike caused a power surge which caused a plc that controls graphics to lose its program. we had a spar unit on the property, but it had to be programmed before the hoist would run.

Unclassified, insufficient data

None. Employee was found unresponsive at their desk with no pulse, soon after declared deceased by medical professionals.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The Employee was removing a wall panel off of the old 2E rock box when it became dislodged striking the employee in the right shin. The area was approximately 8 foot high and damp. Fracture of the anterior tibial pilon. This is where the tibia meets the foot (on top in the front).

2023 · 14 incidents

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee Received 10% PPD OP Award

Accident type, without injuries

All power was lost on the surface due to a neutral line breaking and slapping a phase lead. the power was lost at 4:05 Pm and restored at 4:58 PM. the hoist was not operational during that time frame. no one trapped or no one injured.

Accident type, without injuries

Had a fault for rope slip. after trouble shooting a damaged cable was found for the speed encoder sensor. Replaced speed encoder and repaired damaged cable. when powered back up another fault showed but was able to be cleared. hoist back up and running at 10:50AM

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The Employee was on EE's knees Cutting a piece of belt to make a splice. the employee was cutting towards self when the utility knife slipped and struck EE's right thigh. the area was approximately 6 foot high and damp. #4L 14 Break on 3B Belt

Struck by falling object

The Employee Knelt down to change the water filter on the RCM SN JM7225 in the #5 entry on 2 section. Employee had left hand on top of the miner when a rock measuring approximately 12"" by 9"" by 7"" fell striking the employee's left pinky finger. The area was approximately 6 feet high. This incident resulted in a partial amputation.

Struck against stationary object

The employee was leaving the 2-section power center, walking outby. When the employee went through the backup ventilation curtain, EE stepped on a rock 3' long X 1.5' wide X 8'' thick. straining the employee's right knee. the area was approximately 5.5' high and dry.

Struck by falling object

The employee was installing cable bolts in the #9 entry on the #2 section. The employee's drill steel stopped up. While attempting to unstop the dust collection system the drill steel fell out of the roof striking the tip of right middle finger. Fracture to the tip of the finger and 6 sutures to the right middle finger. The area was approximately 60'' high and damp.

Struck by falling object

The employee was on the #3 section in the #4 face Bolting on the #3 RB. The employee had finished drilling in the first row of the second cut. The employee placed left hand on the ground behind self to get up when a rock measuring.36''L X 7''-15'' w X 2.5'' thick struck employee on the left hand. Area was approx 70'' high and damp. Swelling /1cm cut to the left hand. Under protest

Struck by falling object

The Employee was bolting in the #5 face on the #2 section when a rock measuring 10""x6""x1/4"" fell from the top striking the employee in EE's hard hat causing a laceration to the left side of EE's neck and ear. The entry was approximately 74"" high and damp. The employee received 5 sutures.

Struck by flying object

The employee was pulling the cat pads back together on the #7 Miner Serial #JM 6446A when the chain ratchet slipped off striking the employee on the left pinky finger. The incident resulted in a fractured left pinky finger. the entry was approximately 6 feet High and damp.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was installing a 5 foot fully grouted roof bolt on the #2 section in the #3 face. the employee slipped on a piece of rock causing right hand to become in contact with the roof bolt. causing a broken right radial and ulna bone. the entry was 19' wide and 5'8'' high. the floor was damp.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Former employee was awarded 5% OP

Accident type, without injuries

The emergency hoist went into fault mode due to a malfunctioning lightning arrestor. The arrestor was changed, and the hoist was back operational.

Struck by falling object

The Employee was mining in the #4 face on the # 2 section when a rock measuring 33'x22''x2.5'' fell approximately 4 feet between permanent support striking the employee on the left leg. Causing a hematoma. The employee had surgery to remove dead tissue and repair veins. The entry was approximately 6' high and damp.

2022 · 26 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

During routine inspection the emergency hoist would not operate due to the landing switch electrical component being out of adjustment

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

Employee was removing a rock that was stuck between the spreader bar and the chain of the #5 S/C. The rock fell back striking EE's left ring finger against the frame causing an approximate 1 inch laceration. The area was approximately 6.5 high and damp. The rock measured 2.5' long X 1' wide X 18'' thick. The employee received 10 sutures.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

The employee was was trying to stand a S/C tire up off the mine floor when EE strained their back. The area was approximately 65"" high and damp.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was on the #9160 Brookeville motor traveling down the #2 belt as they were making the curve at the # 3 belt head they jumped track and the motor struck the coal rib. Causing a hairline fracture to the employees left Malleolus. (bone in the ankle) The area was approximately 65 inches high and damp

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall occurred in the #4 entry on the # 3 section which pulled permanent Roof Support.

Struck by flying object

Employee was bolting in 6Left on #2 section when EE's steel became lodged in the drill chuck. EE hit the stuck steel with a 18"" wrench and the steel became dislodged striking EE under the right eye causing a 1/4 inch laceration. The area was 72"" high by 19.5' wide and damp.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was at the shed at the top of the hoist. They were opening a new set of knee pads. The knife blade cut through the netting striking them in the left palm. Causing a 1.5 inch laceration. The area was overcast and cool.

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

Employee was on the offside of the left bolter getting a bundle of plates. Employee's foot was in front of the outby bolter tire when the bolter was being moved to the next row. The bolter tire went over the employees boot smashing the metatarsal of the boot against their big toe causing a fracture to the left big toe. The area was 60 inches high 19.5 feet wide and dry.

Struck by falling object

The Employee was bolting on the #2 section in the #5 Left entry. The employee was swinging the drill station in to drill the inside bolt when a rock 3'W X 3.5' Long X 4"" thick fell striking left heel Causing a laceration from the heel to the middle of foot. The entry was approximately 6 foot high and damp.

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

Employee was installing a cable bolt in the 7R entry. Employee was pushing up the bullet to the drill steel and pinched right index finger between bullet and drill steel.

Accident type, without injuries

A Roof Fall occurred on the #2 section in the last open break in the #6 intersection. The #4 roof bolter is approximately 80 feet inby the fall.

Accident type, without injuries

In the # 3 face on the #3 section near spad # 19127 a roof fall occurred approximately 14 foot long 10 ft wide and 5 foot high. the entry prior to fall was 60 inches. no one trapped no one injured.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was stepping off of crane cab, slipped on steps and grabbed handrail, twisted knee as they slipped. Steps of crane were slightly wet due to condensation.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was using a hammer in the #6 face to cut a piece of tie wire to use to check a test hole. The Employee struck left hand causing an approximately half inch or less laceration between the thumb and first finger. The entry was approximately 5 and a half feet high and damp. The employee recieved 4 sutures and a tetanus shot.

Struck by falling object

The Employee was observing the bolt crew drill a test hole when a piece of rock approximately 3' L by 4' W By 1"" to 6"" thick fell striking EE on the hard hat, causing a 1 inch laceration on the back of EE's head. the entry was 18'6"" wide by 62"" high and damp to wet. The employee received 3 staples.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

The employee was walking on the off side of the #6 belt when the employee tripped over a bottom irregularity (busted piece of bottom rock) that was sticking up approximately 8 inches high. There was 60 inches of clearance between the belt line and the rib. The floor was dry and relatively smooth with a mine height of 65 inches. The employee broke right radius bone (wrist)

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The Employee Received 20% Award for occupational Pneumoconiosis. Employee last worked for us in 2013

Accident type, without injuries

Lost Power to the E-hoist. Power loss was on the AEP Side. Due to a Blown Transformer. No one hurt no one injured

Accident type, without injuries

Lost Main Power to the Mine site. Power Loss was on the AEP side. Blown Transformer. No one Hurt No one Injured No Power on the Service hoist.

Accident type, without injuries

During routine check, ice build up was found on the emergency escape shaft wall. The ice was 1/4 to 6 inches thick.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was trying to repair a set of AC scoop batteries and during the repair inhaled battery byproducts causing an irritation to lungs. The area is approximately 66'' high and damp

Accident type, without injuries

During a routine check Ice buildup ranging from a 1/4 inch to 6 inch thick was found on the shaft wall.

Accident type, without injuries

During a routine check it was found the E hoist had a fault. Upon inspection the power lead to the switch was broke off.

Accident type, without injuries

The main breaker in the distribution panel for the control power to the hoist was getting hot and tripping the breaker. upon inspection the leads were found to be loose causing heat which tripped the breaker. leads were tightened and a spare breaker was ordered.

Struck by falling object

The employee was bolting in the #6R entry on the # 2 Section. When a piece of rock approximately 18""long x 8""wide x 2""thick fell from a mine roof which had a height of approximately 6'6"" striking EE's right arm causing a laceration approximately 2 inches. The employee received 7 sutures.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:15 Am during the Routine check on the Emergency Escape hoist, it was found that the hoist would not lower to the mine floor. all employees were evacuated and after trouble shooting it was found to be an electrical issue which was fixed and the hoist was placed back in service.

2021 · 13 incidents

Struck by falling object

The employee was located at the tram controls of the #7 DDR Roof bolter S/N 2016-451 when a piece of rock measuring 27"" long by 18"" wide by 5"" thick struck EE on the back of the hard hat and the upper back. The area was approximately 7'10"" high and damp.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

The Employee Receive 10% Awarded for occupational Pneumoconiosis. Employee is currently still employed.

Struck by falling object

The Employee was in #9 entry on the # 3 section roof bolting. While trying to maneuver the drill steel into the hole in the roof mat a piece of rock fell striking EE's rights hand. The area was approximately 6.5 feet high and damp.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was loading machine and felt a sharp pain in back and right leg

Struck by falling object

Employee was bolting in #8R on the #2 section. While repositioning the drill station the canopy struck the top causing a piece of rock to strike left hand on the ring and pinky finger along with right hip. the rock was approximately 12"" Long X 10"" thick X 12"" wide the area was approximately 60 inches high and damp. The employee received 4 sutures due to this incident.

Struck by falling object

The employee was on the #2 section in the #5 entry on the off side of the roof bolter. The Employee was attempting to install a glue bolt when a rock 15.5"" long X 4"" wide fell striking EE on the right arm just above the elbow. The area was approximately 7' high and damp. The laceration was approx 2 inches.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was attempting to install a new insert into a bit lug on the RCM with a Flexco hammer. The hammer glanced off the insert causing the left hand to strike another insert. The employee was swinging the hammer with both hands.

Struck against stationary object

Approximately 2 breaks outby the #3 section tail piece the employee was attempting to cut off excess waterline straw with a utility razor knife. The knife slipped causing a laceration to the left wrist. The employee received 4 sutures. The area was damp to wet and approximately 66 inches in height.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was attempting to cut open an oil can when EE's hand slipped causing a laceration to the right thumb. The area was approximately five and a half feet high and wet.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 7-9-2021 Employee received 10% award for occupational Pneumoconiosis. Employee no longer works for Pocahontas Coal company

Struck by falling object

The employee walked from #5 entry into an unbolted cross cut between #4 and #5 entry. When EE was struck by a piece of rock. The entry was approximal 60"" high and damp. The employee sustained crushing injuries.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was crossing an overcast and EE's pant leg caught on the overcast causing the employee to lose balance and land on their right knee. The Employee has a bruise on the right knee. Employee is currently off of work at this time and employees return is unknown at this time.

Struck by falling object

Roof bolter operator was in the #2 entry putting up the inside roof bolt when a piece of roof rock fell striking the employee in the back between the shoulder blades. Employee is currently off of work.

2020 · 16 incidents

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

Employee smashed EE's finger between the scoop door and the frame of the machine while exiting the scoop.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 7:05 a.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. There were two fire bosses that were on the hoist at the time it went down but no one was injured. The hoist was repaired and the EE's were able to get off the hoist safely.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

At approximately 3:50 a.m. an owl shift employee was helping with the belt move process and as they picked up a top belt roller and started walking they felt a strain in lower back. The employee was transported to the hospital where they were later taken off of work.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 10:36 a.m. a roof fall was found in the intake at 14 break along 1B belt. No one was injured or trapped. Both agencies were notified.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 2:40 p.m. the emergency hoist went down due to electrical issues. No persons were injured or trapped. The hoist was repaired and placed back in service.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 9:44 p.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. All persons were evacuated and no one was injured or trapped. The hoist was repaired and placed back in service.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 9:15 a.m. a roof fall occurred in the #7 intersection while starting the first cut out of the #7Rt face. No one was injured. Both agencies were notified.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 9:05 a.m. methane was found near the F Seals. Mine was evacuated and both agencies were called. No one was injured.

Struck by powered moving object

Employee was standing just outby the #4 intersection when struck in the back of the legs by a shuttle car cable causing the employee to fall backwards. When the employee went to catch themselves they landed on the right wrist. X-rays showed that the employee had a fracture in the right wrist. The employee is currently working.

Struck by flying object

Employee was pulling a refuge alternative around a corner with a scoop when the chain broke causing an unknown object to fly through the air striking the employee in the right side of face above the cheek. The employee was placed off of work until employee could follow up with a primary care doctor.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 2:10 p.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. All employees were evacuated and no one was injured or trapped. The service hoist was repaired and placed back in service.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was working on a new belt head set-up and as EE climbed on the drive roller to hang a chain the drive roller started to turn. The employee tried to stop the drive roller with EE's legs causing a strain in EE's left knee. Employee is currently off of work and EE's return is unknown.

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

Employee was struck in the left pinky finger while stacking belt structure onto a flat car. This resulted in a fracture and sutures in the employees finger.

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

Employee was on the off-side of the belt helping guide the belt down the center of the structure when EE's pinky finger and ring finger was pulled into the sheave block. This resulted in a partial amputation of EE's left pinky finger. The employee is currently off of work.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:30 p.m. an elevated methane level was detected at one of the monitoring points in the justice mains panel. All employees in the affected area were evacuated. There were no injuries. Both agencies were notified.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 10:58 a.m. elevated methane levels were encountered while traveling in the return in the justice mains. All employees in the affected area were evacuated and there were no injuries. Both agencies were notified.

2019 · 21 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 4:45 a.m. an employee was traveling in the right return near #2 belt head when EE encountered elevated methane levels. All power was de-energized in the affected area and the entire mine was evacuated and both agencies were notified. No one was trapped or injured.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 12-3-19 an employee received 15% award in occupational pneumoconiosis. The employee is currently retired and does not work at the operation.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 10:20 a.m. the service hoist went down for an electrical issue. No one was trapped or injured. All persons were evacuated in a timely manner. The issue was corrected and the hoist was placed back in service at approximately 1:10 p.m.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:59 a.m. the service hoist went down for power loss. No one was trapped or injured. All persons were evacuated in a timely manner. The power was restored and the hoist was placed back in service at approximately 2:10 p.m.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was trying to remove a piece of drill steel that was stuck in a drill steel chuck from a roof bolter and as the employee was beating on the chuck employee smashed a finger between the back of the roof bolting machine and the drill steel chuck. Employee received four sutures and returned to work on next regular shift.

Accident type, without injuries

On 10/21/2019 at approximately 3:17 p.m. a roof fall was discovered in the #2 entry at 17 break along 3C belt in the left return off of #3 section.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was dropping continuous miner cable and waterline and as employee raised up with the cable on employee's shoulder employee felt pain in lower back. The employee is currently off of work.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was walking through the crosscut between the power entry and the belt entry when EE slipped causing EE to fall resulting in a fracture to EE's fibula in EE's left leg. The employee is currently off of work.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 2:45 p.m. the Service Hoist was taken out of service to tighten up the friction hoist drum brake pedestal anchors. The bolts were tightened and the hoist was placed back in service. No one was injured or trapped. Both state and federal agencies were notified.

Accident type, without injuries

On 8-28-19 at approximately 12:30 p.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. At approximately 1:00 p.m. the service hoist had been repaired and was back in operation. No one was injured or trapped.

Struck by falling object

While in the #4 entry the employee dropped the drill pot down on the roof bolter when a piece of drill steel fell out of the hole hitting the ground. The employee bent over to pick up the piece of drill steel when the other piece fell out striking the employee on the left pinky finger. The employee then went to the hospital where it was determined that the finger was fractured.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

on 6-27-2019 an employee received and additional 5% for occupational pneumoconiosis. The employee is currently working as an outside loader operator

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 5:19 a.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. The hoist was repaired and put back in service at around 6:55 a.m. No person or persons were trapped or injured and all persons were evacuated.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 6-11-19 a former employee received 15% for occupational pneumoconiosis. It was reported to us that the employees is currently not working.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was walking in the back area of the mine office when EE observed a black snake by the trash can. The employee bent over to pick up the black snake when EE was bitten on EE's right hand between EE's pointer finger and index finger. The employee did not miss any work and both agencies were notified by calling the hotline as a safety precaution.

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

An employee had been building cribs under the feeder and as EE was trying to keep balance, EE's right index finger got between two pieces of metal near the jack area smashing the finger. The employee was brought outside and taken to the hospital where it was determined EE would lose part of the finger.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

ON 3-29-19 a former employee received 15% for occupational pneumoconiosis. It was reported to us that the employee is currently not working.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 3:00 a.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. All employees that were required to evacuate exited the mine out the belt slope. No persons were trapped or injured. The hoist was back to normal operation at 6:05 a.m.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was walking to the mantrip at the end of shift when left ear caught the end of a roof mat causing a laceration. Employee received 4 sutures.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 3:35 p.m. the service hoist went down due to electrical issues. All persons were evacuated the slope and no one was trapped or injured.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 1-9-19 Employee received 10% awarded for occupational pneumoconiosis. Employee has retired and is no longer employed with Pocahontas Coal Company.

2018 · 28 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

On 11-2-18, at approximately 5:20 p.m. a roof fall occurred on the new 3 section set-up in the intersection of the #6 entry. Area was dangered off and both agencies were notified. No individuals were injured.

Struck by falling object

Employee was roof bolting when a piece of rock fell from the mine roof striking the employee in the left foot ankle bone area. The employee was taken to hospital where ee received seven sutures.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was dragging line curtain in the #7 entry when they tripped on a rock landing on their right shoulder. Employee was seen by a specialist where it was determined that they had a fractured scapula. Employee is currently off of work.

Struck by falling object

Employee was building a stopping when a piece of draw rock fell from the mine roof and struck the employee in the nose causing a laceration. Employee received 3 sutures.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 5:55 p.m. it was called out that there was high methane readings in the old Dog Leg 2 panel. All power was de-energized, employees were evacuated, and both agencies were notified. No one was injured.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was found in the #6 entry outby 2 section near spad #11307. The fall was called in to both state and federal agencies. No one was injured.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was found in the #7 entry outby 2 section near spad 11289. The fall was called in to both state and federal agencies. No one was injured.

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

Employee was removing the rub rail on the miner with a slate bar when the slate bar slipped smashing the employee's right pointer finger between the slate bar and the frame of the miner. Employee was taken to the hospital where they received stitches in the finger.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 7-30-18 employee received 10% PPD awarded for occupational pneumoconiosis. Employee was laid off on 10/14/2014.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using a grinder on a piece of metal that was attached to a starter box when a piece of metal or some type of material came around the employee's safety glasses and went into left eye. The employee finished shift and returned the next day and then decided to go get it looked at where they removed two pieces of foreign material.

Contact with electrical current

Employee was setting up the power on the high voltage splitter box at the 1-2 split when the employee saw an arc and felt that employee had been shocked through the right hand. Both agencies were notified and an investigation was conducted. The employee was seen by an ambulance and was cleared as being ok.

Accident type, without injuries

Both of the hoists were down for power loss due to a storm. Both agencies were notified. All employees were evacuated. No person or persons were injured or trapped.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

On 6/26/2018 employee received 10% PPD for occupational pneumoconiosis. Employee retired on 12/19/2014.

Accident type, without injuries

While operating the service hoist the hoist operator noticed a noise and after further investigation it was determined that one of the beams for the drum braking system had came loose from the concrete pier. All persons were evacuated and no one was injured. Both agencies were notified and the hoist was repaired on 5-30-18 and placed back in service.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 4:00 a.m. while hoisting a track motor onto the service hoist the crane went down due to mechanical issues. No person or persons were trapped or injured. Both agencies were notified. All underground employee's were evacuated via the slope. Track motor was removed and the service hoist was placed back in service.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:10 p.m. an outby examiner found a roof fall in the intersection of the old scoop roadway at 23 break on 3C belt. No one was injured or trapped. Both agencies were notified and all approaches were cribbed and dangered off.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 3:10 p.m. the service hoist went down while performing the daily checks. It was determined that an e-stop switch on the bottom of the shaft had went bad. The e-stop was replaced, retested and the hoist was put back in service. No one was injured or trapped. Both agencies were notified.

Contact with electrical current

Employee was bolting in the #9 entry with EE's hands on the roof bolter reaching for a piece of drill steel when EE felt that EE had been shocked. This occurred around the same time that the electricians were troubleshooting the miner cable with the fault wizard. EE was seen by an ambulance service and both agencies were notified.

Struck by falling object

Employee was drilling a hole in the mine roof for a cable bolt and as the employee dropped the boom to add another piece of drill steel the piece that was still in the hole fell out striking the boom bouncing off and hitting the employee on the right side of EE's face. The employee was seen by a specialist where it was determined that EE had a hairline fracture.

Struck by powered moving object

Employee had just finished loading a shuttle car and as the shuttle car was leaving the miner it hooked the waterline at exactly the same time as the employee was stepping in the miner cable slack. The slack hooked around a leg pulling them to the ground. The employee was seen by ARH and then by a specialist where it was determined that they had a sprained knee.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was bent over walking through the crosscut between #3 and #4 entries in the feeder line on 3 section when EE caught a damaged roof mat which caused a laceration on the left side of EE's neck above shoulder. EE went to Raleigh General Hospital where EE received seven sutures.

Accident type, without injuries

Employee was traveling off of the section when ee noticed a roof fall in the #3 entry (neutral) in the intersection at 18 break along 3C Belts. This area is not considered an escapeway and is no longer classified as a scoop roadway. No one was injured or trapped.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was unplugging a set of scoop batteries when employee lost balance and hit lower back on the corner of another set of batteries resulting in employee breaking transverse process. The employee is currently off work and actual return date is unknown at this time.

Accident type, without injuries

As the foreman on #3 section was making faces, EE encountered that the top had fallen in a down cut in the #1 entry pulling bolts in the supported part of the mine roof. Both agencies were notified. No one was injured or trapped.

Accident type, without injuries

Due to a power glitch two fuses were blew causing loss of power to the service hoist. No one was injured or trapped. All persons were evacuated and both agencies were notified.

Accident type, without injuries

Employee had just started a cut in the #5 entry on the #2 section with the continuous miner and as they raised the cutter heads close to the mine roof they saw a orange flame. No one was injured, power was de-energized, both agencies were notified.

Struck by falling object

Employee was roof bolting in the #4 face when a piece of rock fell from the mine roof knocking off hard hat. As the employee turned to get hat a second piece fell from the mine roof striking the employee in the top of the head causing a laceration. The employee went to Raleigh General Hospital and received 3 staples. Employee was off work for 1 day.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was loading roof bolts on the roof bolting machine and as employee turned left handed employee's left forearm struck a roof bolt plate causing a laceration. Employee went to Raleigh General where employee received 9 sutures.

2017 · 32 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:40 a.m. an airway man identified a roof fall in the right return off of 1 section. Both agencies were notified and no one was injured. The stopping line was set over and all approaches were cribbed or timbered off.

Struck by falling object

EE placed pusher steel under starter steel that was stuck in the hole; EE was turned away talking to foreman, and the starter steel fell out striking hand on the webbing of left hand, between the thumb and forefinger.

Accident type, without injuries

While dropping a rail car down the shaft the crane on the service hoist went down due to electrical issues in which prevented the hoist from being able to be used. All employees were evacuated in a timely manner, there were no injuries, and both agencies were notified.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was hitting on a stuck bit in the continuous miner when ee missed and struck left thumb with a hammer. Employee came outside and went to Raleigh General Hospital where ee received three stitches.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall was found around 1:47 p.m. in the track entry at 6 break along 3C belt in the intersection at which the actual time of the fall is unknown. The roof fall extended into the crosscut going towards the #3 entry. The fall was timbered and cribbed off and no injuries occurred. Both agencies were notified.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was loading full oil cans in the scoop bucket when ee felt a pop in left hand/elbow/forearm. Employee finished shift and then went to the hospital where they reported ee may have some ligament damage so they suggested ee wore support. Employee received a full release and returned back to work the next day.

Struck against stationary object

EE stated was beating an oil can on a cinder block to get dried B Bond out and EE's hand slipped cutting thumb.

Accident type, without injuries

Employee was operating the continuous miner in the #9 face loading a shuttle car when employee saw an orange flash near the top center drum area of the machine. No one was injured, power was knocked, everyone removed to the power center, and both agencies notified. This was considered a possible ignition but at this time no evidence has proved the ignition.

Struck by flying object

Employee was roof bolting and was putting up a bolt in the last row and as they were operating the functions, a fitting came loose spraying hydraulic in the employees face area. The employee was wearing prescription safety glasses and was taken to the hospital where they flushed their eyes and sent them home.

Accident type, without injuries

Due to a noise in the bull wheel on the service hoist the hoist was taken out of service for repairs. Both agencies were notified and all employees were evacuated. No one was injured or trapped.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was changing shear pins in the feeder using a bar to foul the outer hub so ee could line up the holes and as ee proceeded to turn the coupling the bar slipped out striking the employee in the fore head. The employee was taken to Raleigh General Hospital where ee received 5 sutures.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee stated that they flopped the miner cable over & out of the way & felt a pain in their groin. Employee thinks they pulled a muscle in the groin area but finished the shift and reported the incident to the boss @ 12:30 (end of shift) at the bottom of the shaft. Employee didn't want, and refused an ambulance, stating they would apply ice to the area at home.

Accident type, without injuries

While a feeder was being loaded on the service hoist from the surface the crane went down in which not allow the service hoist to operate. The service hoist itself was not actually down just the crane. No one was trapped or injured and everyone was evacuated.

Struck by falling object

Employee was roof bolting in 6Rt. on 2 section on the offside of the roof bolting machine when EE asked the operator to toss EE a dolly socket across the machine. When the operator tossed the dolly socket it hit the canopy bouncing and striking the employee above the left eye resulting in a laceration.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using a grinder when employee felt debris go under employee's safety glasses. Once the employee went home employee noticed a piece of metal was in employee's right eye. Employee went to the doctor where they removed the metal and gave employee eye drops.

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

Employee was pushing up a roof bolt with the roof bolting machine and as employee was guiding the roof bolt to the mine roof the plate caught the drill steel guide causing the plate to cock pinching employee's left thumb resulting in a laceration.

Accident type, without injuries

Employee was using the crane on the service hoist to pick up a shuttle car that was being transported outside when the crane on the service hoist went down. The actual service hoist was operational. No one was trapped or injured.

Struck by falling object

The offside roof bolter operator on 3 section in #2 entry was struck in the back of the right leg by a piece of rock while roof bolting. The operator was transported to Raleigh General Hospital where x-rays showed a broken fibula, broken pinky toe, and cracked ankle. Operators return to work is unknown at this time. Operator worked for Lightning Contracting Services MSHA ID-8CV.

Struck by falling object

Employee was putting up on of the metal roof mats with the roof bolter and as employee was looking up a piece of metal fell behind employee's glasses and got in employee's right eye. The piece of metal was removed and the employee received eye drops and was released.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 11:30 p.m on 5-14-17 the section boss and safety person heard what sounded like a roof fall. As they started looking across the faces they observed a roof fall in the #5 entry. The roof fall was dangered off and no one was injured. Both agencies were notified.

Struck by falling object

Employee was roof bolting when a rock fell striking the employee in the left arm. Employee had a cut approximately 2 inches in length. Employee then went to Med Express where they received 4 sutures.

Struck by falling object

Roof Bolter Operator was in the #6 entry bolting top and as the employee was putting up their last row of roof bolts a piece of rock fell out striking the employee in the nose area resulting in a fractured septum.

Accident type, without injuries

On 5-2-17 at approximately 1:51 a.m. the service hoist went down due to power issues. No one was trapped or injured. Power was reestablished and the hoist is back up and running.

Accident type, without injuries

On 4-28-17 at approximately 5:19 a.m. an employee was riding the service hoist when it went down due to electrical issues. The hoist then started running again and then went down for a second time due to the same electrical issue. The hoist was repaired by changing a contactor and no one was injured.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was moving cable near the roof bolting machine when foot became lodged and as EE turned, EE twisted right knee. Employee is currently off work waiting on an MRI.

Accident type, without injuries

At approximately 10:18 a.m. an employee was grading bottom with a continuous miner in the 5Rt. face and saw a yellow/orange flame around the center drum. At this time everything was shut down. No one was injured and during the investigation at this time there was no clear evidence of an ignition.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was using a pry bar to take a tire off of a scoop and when employee tried to remove the bar it slipped striking them in the mouth chipping a tooth. Employee finished the shift and did not miss any work. Employee saw a dentist and is having the tooth fixed.

Accident type, without injuries

A roof fall occurred in the 3Lt face while mining and when the roof fell in the cut it pulled one roof bolt that was located in the last row. No one was injured and no equipment was damaged.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was installing a 3' chuck bolt in a flyboard and as the employee was straightening the bolt employee accidentally hit the rotation on the machine twisting left wrist. Employee was seen by a doctor and it was determined employee had a hairline fracture in the wrist. Employee was released back to work.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee slipped near the #7 belt head rock box and twisted EE's left ankle. The employee was taken to Raleigh general hospital where an x-ray showed EE's ankle was not broken. The employee then had a follow up appointment on 2-8-17 where a second x-ray showed that the ankle was broken. Employee is currently off of work and EE's return to work is unknown at this time.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was mixing B-Bond to plaster a stopping with when B-Bond splashed under employee's safety glasses in employee's right eye. Employee received eye drops and antibiotic cream for employee's eye.

Struck by flying object

Employee was hammering nails in the end of a piece of belt to make a splice when a piece of the hammer chipped off hitting the employee in the right hand between the index and middle finger. Employee went to the hospital on 1-4-17 after finishing owl shift and the piece of metal was removed.

2016 · 6 incidents

Struck by falling object

Employee was jacking up a track rail when the rail slid off of the jack striking the employee in the shin area on left leg. Employee went to the hospital after the shift and x-rays showed no fractures only swelling. Employee was placed on restricted work until 12-21-16 where EE went back to full duty.

Accident type, without injuries

On 12-12-16 at approximately 4:55 a.m. an employee got on the service hoist to ride it to the surface. The hoist started moving towards the surface and when it reached the 100 foot mark the hoist stopped. The employee was stuck on the hoist for approximately 35 minutes. The hoist was down for electrical issues and was repaired at approximately 5:30 a.m. No employees were injured

Struck by falling object

While drilling a hole to install a roof bolt a piece of rock fell from the mine roof striking the drill pot and breaking the rock into pieces. One of the pieces of rock flew under the employee's safety glasses striking the employee in the left eye. Employee received eye drops for a scratched eye.

Struck by falling object

Rock fell from top catching employees right index finger between the canopy of roof bolter and the rock.

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

Employee was putting in a top roller while moving belt when EE noticed that the belt clamp was stuck. When the employee reached down to free the belt clamp another employee grabbed the roller and caught EE's finger between the top rail and the belt roller smashing and cutting ring finger on right hand.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was getting a piece of rock off of the continuous miner and when ee tried to flip the rock in the pan it caught right ring finger and right pinky finger on right hand causing fractures to the tips of both. Note: Employee returned to work on the next regular scheduled shift.