Creating workplaces where we all watch out for each other

MSHA – Mine Fatality #11

First published by MSHA

MINE FATALITY – On March 20, 2022, a 33 year-old miner died when he was struck by a roof fall while moving a waterline out by the retreat mining section.  The intersection of the fall area was supported with five-foot fully grouted roof bolts and 10-foot cable bolts.  The roof fall was approximately 40 feet long, 18 feet wide, and five feet thick.

Accident scene where a 33 year-old miner died when he was struck by a roof fall while moving a waterline outby the retreat mining section.
Photo: Mine Safety and Health Administration
Best Practices: 
  • Conduct a visual examination of the roof, face, and ribs immediately before any work is started in an area.
  • Be alert to changing roof conditions, especially during retreat mining.
  • Train miners on how to identify hazardous roof and rib conditions.
Additional Information:

This is the 11th fatality reported in 2022, and the second classified as “Fall of Roof or Back.”


McCraren Compliance offers many opportunities in safety training to help circumvent accidents. Please take a moment to visit our calendar of classes to see what we can do to help your safety measures from training to consulting.

Skip to content