The program is intended to help reduce the high number of roof falls which occur in the nation’s underground coal operations, particularly during this time of year.

“Statistics show that more accidents and injuries from roof falls occur during the summer months than at any other time of year. As temperatures rise, humidity and moisture increase underground, making it easier for a mine roof or rib to fall,” the agency said.

According to federal statistics, there have been 69 coal mining fatalities attributed to MSHA’s classifications of “fall of roof or back and fall of face/rib/pillar/side/highwall” since 2000.

“Underground roof falls continue to be a leading cause of coal mining fatalities,” assistant secretary for mine safety and health Joseph Main said.

“Miners and mine operators are urged to pay attention to roof conditions – not just in summer, but throughout the year.”

During the program, which runs through September, MSHA staff will work with operators to examine mine roof that has weathered due to humidity and communicate immediately with staff when adverse roof conditions are found.

Additionally, the agency will help mines determine where to install supplemental support when conditions warrant, scale loose roof in the face area where miners work, and consistently follow the mine’s approved roof control plan.

Federal inspectors will begin this week to distribute educational information, including posters and hardhat stickers. MSHA officials will also be speaking with miners about issues which arise underground from warmer weather, and providing statistics about the increase in accidents during the summer months.

Any US operation can visit the MSHA web site at any time for a list of best practices to address ground control for a deep cover operation.

A printable poster on PROP is also available there.