Massey Energy Co., owner of the mine where the worst accident in 40 years took place in April, failed another inspection following a surprise visit on September 28 by federal regulators.

 

Officials with the Mine Safety and Health Administration found numerous violations that could have caused an explosion at the Seng Creek Powellton Mine, located about 40 miles south of Charleston, West Virginia, Miners were caught illegally cutting too deeply into a coal seam, while a foreman admitted to skipping mandatory tests for explosive gases. Inspectors also discovered ventilation curtains (designed to flush away dangerous gases) not in use near areas where coal was being cut.

 

On April 5, an explosion at Massey’s Upper Big Branch Mine in Raleigh County, West Virginia, killed 29 workers, making it the deadliest mining accident since 1970.

 

Only weeks after the accident, Massey was caught operating three other mines where safety rules were violated and miners had to be evacuated by federal inspectors.

-Noel Brinkerhoff

 

Massey Cited for Serious Violations at West Virginia Mine (by Tim Huber, Associated Press)

Mine Safety Administration Evacuates 3 West Virginia Mines (by Noel Brinkerhoff, AllGov)

Mine Safety Agency Issued Report Warning of Poor Inspector Training 5 Days Before West Virginia Explosion (by David Wallechinsky and Noel Brinkerhoff, AllGov)