MSHA records indicate that Double A Mining in Knott County, Kentucky, owes $313,820 for at least 367 violations at the producer’s No. 4 mine.

“In a letter dated February 11, 2009, MSHA formally demanded that Double A Mining pay its delinquent penalties,” the agency said.

“When the operator failed to respond within the requested two-week time period, MSHA issued a citation on February 27 under Section 104(a) of the Mine Act,” MSHA said.

The mine, it noted, had not made a penalty payment since August 2004 and no information was provided on how far back the violations and fines extended.

The federal withdrawal order suspends all personnel from working mine production activities until the fines are paid. The only mine access allowed is for staff and equipment necessary for monitoring, examination and maintenance to ensure safety.

“The failure to pay penalties reduces the operator’s incentive to comply with its obligation to prevent unsafe conditions at the mine,” said MSHA deputy assistant secretary for operations Michael Davis.

“We regret that a withdrawal order was necessary, but MSHA will take the necessary steps to ensure that our nation’s mines are safe for its working men and women.”

The mine was one of 15 operations, 13 in coal, that were put on notice last week by federal regulators for a potential pattern of violations. It was one of five in Kentucky given the warning.