A coal mine explosion that killed 29 people in West Virginia last year was probably caused by faulty water sprays, badly managed ventilation and built-up coal dust, and could have been prevented, US Department of Labour officials said on Wednesday.
Mine and company management were aware that chronic hazardous conditions were not being recorded properly and miners were “intimidated” into prioritising production over safety, administrator for mine safety and health Kevin Stricklin said at a public briefing to mark the one-year anniversary since the Mines Safety and Health Administration started its probe into the accident.
