Wednesday, July 02, 2008
MSHA kicks off initiative to stem roof fall fatalities
The Mine Safety and Health Administration has launched its annual Preventive Roof/Rib Outreach Program through Sept. 30 to highlight the hazards of roof falls and coal outbursts, which have killed 29 coal miners since 1997.
The agency said more roof fall accidents historically have occurred during the hot, humid summer months as warm air carries moisture into mines. The moisture is absorbed into a roof's strata and may weaken the roof, MSHA said.
During the initiative, MSHA inspectors are distributing safety guidelines for roof and rib control, mobile roof supports, and retreat mining, the agency said. Acting MSHA administrator Richard E. Stickler called on miners and mine operators to conduct thorough and frequent checks of mine roofs, and to never work or walk under unsupported roofs.