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Mining Deaths on the Rise, Says Mine Safety and Health Report

On Monday July 28, 2014, the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration released its mid-year summary of fatal accidents in the mining industry. According to the report, mining deaths in the first half of 2014 have increased compared to the same period last year.

Statistics from the Mine Safety and Health report include:

  • 22 mining deaths during the first six months of 2014.
  • There were 18 mining deaths during the first half of 2013, and 19 in during the first half of 2012.
  • 8 coal miners died in the first half of 2014.
  • 14 workers in other mines, including metal and nonmetal mining, were killed on the job.

The report mentioned causes of the fatal accidents, which included accidents where miners were "caught-between" heavy equipment, fell from heights, or were hit by falling objects. Officials from the Mine Safety and Health Administration also stated that the mining deaths were preventable, and that the industry needs to focus more intently on protecting the safety of workers.

The recent safety and health reports shed light on how dangerous the mining industry truly is. To protect worker safety, the federal government compiles these statistics to track whether companies are making safety a priority. They also conduct regular inspections, including one that concluded just last month.

Four days before the mid-year summary report was released, the Mine Safety and Health Administration announced the results of their June inspections. According the MSHA announcement, federal inspectors issued 186 citations, 25 orders, and one safeguard. Inspections were conducted at 11 coal mines and two metal and nonmetal mines.

At Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC, our West Virginia personal injury lawyers have seen the devastating impact coal mining accidents can have on victims and their families. As an experienced personal injury firm representing residents throughout the state, we've helped a number of coal miners and their families recover the compensation they deserved after a preventable tragedy. For our legal team, it's not just business. It's personal.

If you would like more information about your rights after a coal mining accident and how our firm can help, call 888-720-1001 for a free case evaluation.

Charleston, WV

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC
10 Hale St Suite 501
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone: (304) 720-1000

Columbus, OH

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC
20 E Broad St Suite 1000
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 587-8423