Department of Labor announces findings of impact inspections at 14 US mines; identifies 246 violations of safety, health standards

Summary:

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) conducted impact inspections at 14 mines across 10 states in August, resulting in 246 violations. The inspections aimed to identify potential safety and health hazards at mines with a poor compliance history, previous accidents, or other compliance concerns. Notably, 94 of the violations were significant and substantial, and 17 were classified as unwarrantable failures, indicating aggravated conduct that constitutes more than ordinary negligence. The inspections also identified issues such as inadequate workplace examinations, poor belt and walkway maintenance, and unaddressed hazards along belts, which may lead to fires and explosions.