MSHA Warns of Seasonal Ground Fall Hazards
About 150 underground roof or back fall accidents were reported in the first seven months of 2026, including one fatality.
- By Chelsey Arries
- Sep 04, 2026
Changing seasonal conditions can increase ground fall hazards in underground mines, prompting the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to urge operators and miners to strengthen inspections and ground-control practices.
About 150 underground “fall of roof or back” accidents were reported to MSHA during the first seven months of 2026, including one fatality. The agency said the accidents remain a common source of mining injuries.
Increased moisture associated with changing seasonal conditions can contribute to unstable ground. Although ground fall hazards can occur anywhere underground, MSHA said they are most often associated with older workings exposed to weathering and extended stand-up times.
Inadequate inspections, scaling practices and supplemental support procedures also can contribute to ground fall hazards.
MSHA recommends that mine operators follow their roof or ground control plans and review them when ground conditions or mining methods change. Miners, supervisors and contractors should be trained to recognize roof and back hazards and changes in ground conditions.
The agency also recommends frequent, systematic pre-shift and on-shift examinations. Hazards and corrective actions should be communicated between shifts.
Water and seasonal moisture should be managed through drainage, diversion of inflows and pumping of accumulated water. Ground and supports should be reinspected after wet or freeze-thaw periods.
Loose ground should be scaled from a safe position with long-handled bars or mechanical scalers. Workers should not scale from beneath an unsupported roof or back.
Areas that are no longer needed or present ground-control hazards should be bermed, barricaded, clearly marked or sealed. Maps should be updated and signs should be posted to restrict access where necessary.
About the Author
Chelsey Arries is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.