Federal mine inspectors say they issued 176 citations during a
January inspection of mines, including 31 at a Virginia
The Mine Safety and Health Administration on Thursday released
the results of its inspections last month. The inspections occurred at 13 coal
mines and three metal and nonmetal mines.
The monthly inspections focus on mines that merit increased
agency attention and enforcement because of a poor compliance history or
particular compliance concerns.
On Jan. 13, MSHA conducted an impact inspection at Mill Branch
Coal Corp's Osaka Mine in Wise County ,
Virginia
MSHA said its inspectors found hazardous conditions that exposed
miners to potential ignitions, fire and explosions, and the risk of developing
black lung and other respiratory diseases.
