Mining is an important industry in the state of West Virginia, and unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous. West Virginia leads the nation in non-fatal coal mine accidents, but a new campaign seeks to reduce this number and make it safer for every worker. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has outlined some simple and useful suggestions that could cut down on unnecessary accidents.
The MSHA is initiating conversations with mine owners, operators and workers in an effort to explain how stopping and pausing in between tasks can decrease accidents and increase productive work. The organization is encouraging workers to take a break in between tasks. The point of this suggestion is to help mine workers recognize safety hazards by moving carefully through their tasks.
The most common mine accident injuries includes damage to the back, shoulders, fingers and knees. In more serious or near-fatal incidents, the cause was related to the use of heavy machinery. This call to safety is intended to increase awareness of hazards, encourage the immediate and consistent application of safety measures and raise awareness of the dangers of careless actions while working in mines.
Coal mine accidents may seem like an inevitable part of this inherently dangerous field, but West Virginia workers have rights in the event that they are injured on the job. A lawyer can help ensure that their post-accident needs are met and that victims receive the medical treatment they deserve. A complete case evaluation can determine what legal options are available to a coal mine accident victim and his or her family.
Source: floydcountytimes.com, “MSHA issues call to safety to nation’s coal miners”, Aug. 30, 2016
