“The small increase in carbon monoxide is believed to have been caused by a heating event, or ‘hot spot’, in a previously mined area,” producer officials explained, adding that the mined-out area was being sealed when a decision was made to halt production April 29.
“Since the incident was first detected, carbon monoxide levels have not increased and methane levels remain low.”
No injuries or property damage was reported as a result of the issue.
US Mine Safety and Health Administration and Dugout Canyon personnel are working together to address the incident and determine how to proceed.
"First and foremost, we want to ensure the safety of the employees," Arch president John Eaves said.
“At this point, Dugout Canyon will continue honoring customer contracts by shipping coal from its inventory.”
An estimated restart date is not yet known, but Arch officials do know it will likely take several weeks to resolve. Plans are being finalized to complete sealing of the area, which will also be allowed to flood with water.
During the first quarter of the year, the 275-worker Dugout Canyon produced about 200,000 tons of low-sulfur bituminous coal monthly, or about 2% of Arch’s total production.
