During one recent year — 2018 — there were 27 mining fatalities. Just over half of those deaths involved powered haulage accidents. What does that include? Basically, any type of carts used in the mine and other mobile equipment like powered conveyors that move...
Workers’ Compensation
Factory fires: Get the training needed to avoid injuries
If you work in a factory, the risk of an explosion or fire can be serious. Most factories use processes that will use flammable materials of some kind. Even if the materials themselves aren’t flammable, the chemicals used on them may be. It is important that your...
How long can you receive Alabama workers’ compensation?
If you get hurt on the job, workers' compensation can cover your medical costs and replace a portion of your lost wages. Workers in Alabama, especially those who work very physical jobs such as mining or manufacturing work, may not be able to keep working after an...
Subtle leaks of dangerous gases remain a risk to coal miners
People use the phrase “canary in the coal mine” to refer to early warning signs of subtle danger. The term stems from the former literal use of small birds to detect one of the most significant risks that miners faced while on the job. The act of mining could, in...
Trapped in a mine collapse? Protect your lungs
Working in a coal mine, you already know that there is a risk of exposure to coal dust and silica. These can lead to lung damage that causes chronic coughs or shortness of breath. Today, most workers can avoid these issues thanks to the personal protective gear that...
Proper forklift safety is important at mining sites
Forklifts are a valuable piece of equipment at many mining sites, but they can also cause serious injuries -- and even death -- if they aren’t operated properly. It is imperative that companies take the time to ensure that anyone who is going to use the forklift knows...
Alabama worker killed in poultry plant accident
A 39-year-old man was killed recently in an on-the-job accident at a poultry plant in Barbour County, Alabama. The county coroner listed the man’s cause of death as decapitation. The man was part of a cleaning crew that was contracted to provide services to the...
Working in coal mines can lead to lifelong, serious illnesses
In communities where coal mining operations exist, mining work can often be the best available career for those hoping to support themselves or a family. Blue-collar workers can find a living wage even in entry-level positions across the mining industry, and there are...
Are mines in the United States getting safer?
Mining has never been a safe industry in which to work. Every miner knows that accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. But new data from the United States Department of Labor and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) indicates that mining is getting a...
What are chemical burns?
If you work with caustic chemicals on a regular basis, you're at risk of experiencing chemical burns. Chemical burns can be painful even if they're minor, but they can also cause serious injury in some cases, such as when a caustic chemical is inadvertently ingested....