MSHA Issues Closure Orders to Massey Mine
The US Mine Safety and Health Administration said it has issued 11 closure orders to Elk Run Coal's Seng Creek Powellton mine, owned by Massey Energy. The closure order follows a surprise visit by federal inspectors who say the mine is making illegal cuts into the coal seam, operating wi
The US Mine Safety and Health Administration said it has issued 11 closure orders to Elk Run Coal's Seng Creek Powellton mine, owned by Massey Energy.
The closure order follows a surprise visit by federal inspectors who say the mine is making illegal cuts into the coal seam, operating without proper ventilation and not completing required air readings, which are needed to assure there is sufficient air flow to prevent mine explosions.
Many areas of the mine, located in Arlington, Virginia, were also found to be without adequate ventilation, while the deep cuts were being taken, exposing miners to the risk of explosions and black lung.
The Seng Creek Powellton mine, located in Boone County, West Virginia, has been issued 264 citations, orders and safeguards since January 2009.