West Virginia Cites Massey Subsidiary After Fatal Bulldozer Accident
A Massey Energy subsidiary has been cited by West Virginia for a safety violation that state investigators say contributed to the death of a bulldozer operator last fall.
A state Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training report says Massey’s Alex Energy allowed 61-year-old James Woods to operate the dozer on a steep slope without adequate protection.
A Massey spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Investigators also cited the earthmoving contractor for non-contributing violations.
The bulldozer rolled, breaking Woods’ spine. The accident at Alex Energy’s No. 1 surface mine in Nicholas County occurred Sept. 19; Woods died Oct. 4.
Richmond, Va.-based Massey operates mines in West Virginia, Virginia and Kentucky.
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