Alpha Coal West, Inc.Mining Incidents in 2012

The area of shot coal was restricted from access to all mine site personnel because of a K order that was issued on 07/25/12. The shot coal spontaneously combusted and started to produce flames on 08/17/12.

At approximately 1:30 am, a dozer operator reported observing pieces of debris raveling off the East highwall in the East pit. A supervisor observed over the next 90 minutes, portions of the East wall experienced a gradual block slough. No injuries or equipment damage occurred as all personnel and equipment were clear of the area. 7000-1 is files under protest.

Grass fire on mine site. Flames were observed for 30 minutes. 21.3 acres of grass burnt.

While dismounting haul truck, an EE hyper-extended his shoulder while stepping from the second to last rung to the bottom rung. The extension resulted in damage to his rotator cuff. The EE was seen by an Ortho. Dr. on 12/18/12 and surgery is recommended to repair the rotator cuff.

Conditions were normal, pump was operating correctly. Worker was introducing anti-freeze to the line feeding into the pump. Worker was wearing requited safety equipment including safety glasses and hard hat. A ball valve was not fully closed and when air pressure was introduced to the line, the anti-freeze blew up into the workers face and eyes.

Lost footing while loading powder blend truck. To avoid falling, grabbed a support beam and felt a sharp pain in lower back.

Lifting chock blocks

While changing conveyor roll a Plant Tech's finger became pinched between the roll and the frame. The EE was wearing leather gloves. The EE received a 1/2 inch long laceration that required stitches. The EE RTW full duty.

Employee was removing a water hose from a pump and the hose jumped, striking his mouth and fracturing his 2 front teeth.

While operating a front-end loader, a chunk of coal roller over the top of the bucket and damaged the windshield. The operator received small lacerations.

Two stitches on finger, finger was pinched between lock ring and pad on tire handler.

Four hours into the shift, an Operator complained of back, neck, and shoulder pain. The employee was evaluated and prescribed a muscle relaxer. The employee returned to work the following shift full duty without restrictions.