INVESTIGATION OF MINE ACCIDENTS
The Coal Mine Safety Laws of Virginia requires an operator to report promptly to the Department occurrence of the following accidents:
- Inundations - Methane, water, accidental cutting into old works;
- Ignitions - Explosion of methane or dust at a mine;
- Roof Falls - Any unplanned roof fall at or above the anchorage zone or that impairs ventilation or impedes passage;
- Mine Fires - Unplanned fire not extinguished within 30 minutes of discovery;
- Explosions - Methane or dust;
- Serious Personal Injury - Has reasonable potential to cause death or injury other than sprain or strain which requires hospital admission for 24 hours or more for medical treatment; and
- Fatalities - Death at a mine whether the victim is employed at the mine or not
NOTE: The scene of the accident is to remain unchanged pending investigation except as needed to remove injured persons or protect property.
A mine inspector, with assistance from a Technical Specialist, will be dispatched promptly to the mine accident, investigate causes and issue such orders as necessary to ensure safety of persons. A report of investigation findings, including recommendations for prevention, will be completed.
Representatives of the operator will render assistance needed in the investigations.