UK Coal fined for fatal health and safety breaches
Following the death of a coal miner at a pit in North Yorkshire in 2009, the company known as UK Coal has been fined a total of £200,000 for breaching health and safety regulations.
46-year-old Ian Cameron lost his life at the Kellingley Pit when powered roof support (PRS) lowered suddenly and crushed him against large amounts of debris that had been left on a walkway. The cause of the incident was believed to be a defective and worn valve within the PRS equipment.
The Mining Inspectorate of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated the incident and found that UK Coal had breached health and safety regulations. The company admitted its failings at Leeds Crown Court recently, and said in a statement:
“We deeply regret any injury, or loss of life, which is felt deeply throughout our company; and our thoughts today are with the family and friends of Ian Cameron at this difficult time.”
For failing to properly maintain PRS equipment and for health and safety training breaches, UK Coal was fined £200,000 and ordered to pay £218,000 in legal costs. Joy Mining Machinery Ltd, which supplied the malfunctioning equipment, was also fined £50,000.