The decline is largely due to increased progress at one of the nation’s most statistically dangerous coal mining states, Kentucky.
According to official data from the US Mine Safety and Health Administration, the Bluegrass State cut its fatal accidents almost in half – with four deaths last year compared to eight in 2011.
West Virginia, however, continued to lead coal mining fatalities, with seven miners killed in 2012 after recording seven previous deaths in 2011.
The two states share the grim distinction of being national leaders in coal mining fatalities.
Over the past five years, according to MSHA records, Kentucky has suffered 31 coal mining deaths, while West Virginia posted 64, including 29 miners killed at the Upper Big Branch mine in April 2010.
Alabama was third in 2012 with two deaths. Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Colorado, Tennessee and Illinois each recorded one death for the year.
Nationwide, 2009 was the least deadly coal mining year, with 18 fatalities.
