COAL MINING.

Abstract

Coal mining is presently one of the most hazardous industries in the United States, although vast improvements have occurred in recent years through research, improved equipment design, and mining techniques, inspection, education and training. Accident rates have decreased markedly in areas where workers are aware of the hazards and where they are trained to recognize and control the hazardous conditions. Although many mines now have safety records that are equal to those found in other industries, an all-out effort is underway to further improve the work environment of America's miners. Both underground and surface mining are discussed.