The underground mine in Somerset, Gunnison County, worked for more than 29 months to meet the mark and made it official September 24.

West Elk is part of Arch’s Mountain Coal subsidiary.

Mine general manager Jim Miller credited the operation’s crews for the achievement, citing the group’s commitment to focusing on prevention as part of a behavior-based safety process.

“It is an impressive accomplishment that reflects the collective efforts of the entire West Elk workforce,” he said.

“Most importantly, these accomplishments have allowed us to deliver on our true goal – ensuring that the entire team goes home safely every day.”

In related West Elk news, Arch confirmed its red mine rescue team from the longwall operation was named Colorado state champion at the recently held National Coal Mine Rescue Competition.

West Elk team member Ty Odle was also the first-place state and national honoree in the Biopak 240S category.

“Mine safety competitions help our employees hone their skills and gauge how they stack up against others,” Miller said.

“Our teams practice year round to ensure they stay prepared, and we are quite proud of their achievements.”

Arch’s West Elk is part of its recently-downsized Western Bituminous Region portfolio.

In June, the producer announced it was divesting its Canyon Fuel mines in Utah, including the Sufco and Skyline longwall mines and the Dugout Canyon continuous miner operation, to privately-held Bowie Resources in a $US435 million cash deal.