The accident occurred on Thursday, April 22, 2004, when the victim was performing belt cleaning duties. During the performance of these duties he came in contact with the conveyor belt.

After being carried approximately 9,000 feet by the conveyor system, the victim was found on the surface rock pile by the bulldozer operator.

MSHA have issued a number of best practices to follow when carrying out belt cleaning.

Never remove coal spilled beneath unguarded conveyor belt drives and tailpieces while the conveyor is in motion.

Stay out of areas along a moving conveyor belt where clearance is restricted.

Cross moving conveyor belts only where suitable crossing facilities are provided.

Ensure all guards are adequate and securely in place.

Ensure that power is off and cannot be accidentally restored to machinery before any work is performed on such equipment.

Ensure that machinery is blocked against motion before performing maintenance or repairs.

Consider providing a visible or audible system to warn persons that the conveyor will be started.