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Mining Disasters
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Copyright © 2003 -2008 Roger Philpot All Rights Reserved
Images © 2008 Roger Philpot
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 the 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.
Falls of ground remain the greatest single hazard faced by underground miners. They cause 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 later recovered, the ground collapses. Nationally, coal pillar recovery accounts for just 10% of coal mined underground, but it is linked to more than 30% of roof falls. A time line of mining disasters with incidents with 5 or more fatalities can be seen by clicking on this link to Mining Disasters
Eternal Flame Commemorating Lost Miners
Mining Disasters
This is the capsule that was used to rescue 9 miners in the Quecreek Mine Rescue, July 29, 2002. It symbolizes the importance of mine rescue and mine rescue teams, their skills, determination, and their devotion. Our thanks to all.... .
This torch is dedicated to all coal miner's who have lost their lives in mining accidents.
God bless the coal miner.
A miner trapped under a roof cave in at Jenkins Coal Company in 1923.
Black Lung Kills almost 1500 miners each year
