Original article published by MSHA
MINE FATALITY – On March 18, 2023, a miner died when the mine roof collapsed during the installation of standing roof support (crib) as part of the longwall recovery cycle. The accident occurred in an area adjacent to a longwall shield.
Photo property of MSHA
Best Practices
- Follow the approved Roof Control Plan.
- Design, install, and maintain roof support where miners work or travel.
- Never travel under unsupported roof.
- Conduct a visual examination of the roof, face, and ribs immediately before starting work in an area.
- Be alert to changing roof conditions, especially during longwall recovery.
Additional Information
This is the 13th fatality reported in 2023, and the first 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.