According to MetroNews, West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training acting deputy director Eugene White told state lawmakers at an informational hearing that the agency’s final investigative report into the April 2010 blast in Raleigh County that killed 29 workers is basically done, is being placed in its final form and will be unveiled by the end of February.
Before the report is released to the public, White said, the details will be given to the families of the victims.
White was one of the first speakers to appear at a joint meeting of the House and Senate judiciary committees Monday and Tuesday regarding mine safety. Legislators are seeking background information on current events and the industry environment before progressing with their review of two pending mine safety bills that were recently introduced.
According to MetroNews, White said the WVOMHST has implemented numerous changes post-UBB, including the placement of two inspectors at the state’s larger mines after a single inspector assigned to the mine prior to the explosion was overwhelmed by its size.
The agency is also conducting more meetings with mines that have historical methane issues.
One issue, he reportedly told legislators, is staffing for state positions; 12 inspector slots were added in 2011 but only seven have been filled. Meanwhile, 27 of its staffers left their positions last year.
