In January, 2006, twelve miners were killed in the Sago Mine explosion. The sole survivor, Randal McCloy, had to use a CSE self-contained self-rescuer breathing device that he said "wouldn't work." Six years later, the United States Mine Safety and Health Administration finally established a timeline for replacing approximately 70,000 of these breathing devices where were found to be not in compliance with safety requirements and MSHA requirements. These portable devices should provide up to 60 minutes of breathable air to a miner working underground in an event of an emergency.
The phase-out timeline provides replacements with approved breathing devices by April 26, 2013.
Our federal regulators need to be proactive and address safety issues prior to an accident promptly and address any mine safety issue to ensure safety first for all of our miners. Prompt enforcement of these safety laws by our governmental inspectors is required without exception.
Unfortunately, however, there are many mine operators and employers who skirt safety requirements and laws despite enforcement by mine inspectors. This type of negligent and reckless conduct increases the risks to our miners and can lead to serious personal injuries or even death.
If you or a family member have been hurt or injured in a coal mining accident or explosion, contact one of the West Virginia Coal Mining Accident attorneys at the Fitzsimmons Law Firm immediately to discuss your legal options.