Mining Incidents
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Case study · MSHA Record #220160970011

Examiner fatality

March 25, 2016 at 8:16 AM
Huff Creek Mine · Lone Mountain Processing LLC · Harlan County, KY
Investigator narrative
While workers were cleaning up material that was removed from a new coal transfer borehole using a continuous miner, a section of rib/brow fell from the inby portion of the entry and continued outby pulling rib bolts. The material rolled down the rib and struck the miner operator causing fatal crushing injuries to chest and abdomen.
Record details
Classification
FALL OF FACE/RIB/PILLAR/SIDE/HIGHWALL
Accident type
Struck by rolling or sliding object
Activity at time
Continuous Miner
Subunit / location
UNDERGROUND
Underground location
LAST OPEN CROSSCUT
Mining method
Continuous Mining
Source of injury
CAVING ROCK,COAL,ORE,WSTE
Nature of injury
CRUSHING
Body part affected
TRUNK, MULTIPLE PARTS
Total mining experience
30 years
Experience at this mine
14 years
Experience in this job
7 years
Mine type
Underground
Sector
Coal
Similar incidents in MSHA records · same classification: FALL OF FACE/RIB/PILLAR/SIDE/HIGHWALL
  • August 24, 2026 · Haynes Materials Company · CT · Driller

    situation still under investigation so far information gathered is startled worker tripped and broke spine, further information still being gathered. Driller died after being struck by falling rocks.

  • May 19, 2026 · Consol Pennsylvania Coal Company LLC · PA · Laborer

    Employee was setting a post at 24xcut in 7 South #6 track entry, to barricade off an area of concern. While tightening up a post a piece of rock dislodged from the upper portion of the rib and fell striking the employee. The employee suffered fatal injuries as a result of this event.

  • February 28, 2025 · Marfork Coal Company, LLC · WV · Bull Gang Foreman

    EE had been jack hammering to set a water trap for seals and traded off with coworker to take a break went over to rib sat down when rib roll 68"L x 24" W x 8" T came off at spad #3002/7483 on EE striking EE in the chest and abdomen area.