Data has been recorded and documented that in the United States alone 717 mining disasters have occurred with incidents with five or more fatalities. This data does not reflect incidental accidents.
In 1910, following a decade in which the number of coal mining fatalities exceeded 2,000 annually, Congress established the Bureau Of Mines as a new agency in the Department of the Interior. The Bureau was charged with there responsibility of conducting research and reducing accidents in the coal mining industry. However, Congress did not empower the federal inspectors to enter and inspect mines until 1941.Congress authorized the formulation of the first code of federal regulations for mine safety in 1947.
Working Man Underground
Dedicated To TheSix Brave Souls Trapped Underground In A Utah Coal Mines.
*Click the arrow to listen to working man
Falls of ground remain the greatest single hazard faced by underground miners. They caused nearly 50% of fatal injuries. When coal is first mined, large pillars coal are left to support the rock between the mine and surface. When these pillars are removed, the ground collapses.
The United States Department of Labor - Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA)
Reports Mining fatalities fall to all-time low in 2009
Preliminary data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) released today indicate that mine fatalities in 2009 fell to an all-time low for the second straight year. Coal mines recorded 18 mining deaths, and metal/nonmetal mines recorded 16 mining deaths, for a combined total of 34 mining deaths nationwide and a significant drop from last year's total of 52 deaths.
The Dangers of Coal Mining
Black Lung kills 1500 Miners a year.
Read about Black lung: HERE
This eternal flame is dedicated to all the coal miner's who have lost their lives in mining accidents.
God bless the coal miner.
In Memorandum
A Monument dedicated to the Harlan County Coal Miners who lost their lives in mining accidents. Picture donated to this web site by Jennifer Cassim Farmer.
Monument is located on the grounds of the Harlan County Courthouse in Harlan, Kentucky.
