MSHA Cited 247 Violations in December 2023 Mine Inspections

MSHA Cited 247 Violations in December 2023 Mine Inspections

The agency identified a total of 2,739 violations throughout 2023.

In December 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) concluded impact inspections at 16 mines across 11 states. This resulted in the issuance of 247 violations, including 57 deemed significant and substantial (S&S) and three unwarrantable failure findings.

According to a release dated Jan. 29, MSHA completed impact inspections in Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wisconsin. The agency launched monthly impact inspections following the 2010 explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine in West Virginia, which claimed 29 lives. Mines are selected based on poor compliance history, past accidents, injuries or death, and other compliance concerns.

“In 2023, MSHA employees demonstrated the importance of conducting impact inspections by identifying hazards, issuing violations, and ensuring that corrective actions were taken to protect miners’ health and safety,” MSHA Assistant Secretary Chris Williamson said in a statement. “In 2024, the Biden-Harris administration will continue to focus on good jobs, including ensuring that miners are able to return home each day to their families and their communities safe and healthy.”

Throughout 2023, MSHA’s impact inspections uncovered 2,739 violations, including 764 categorized as S&S and 56 unwarrantable failure findings. An S&S violation poses a serious risk of injury or illness, while an unwarrantable failure indicates negligence beyond the ordinary.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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