Inadequate policies and training cited in death of taconite miner

Mine accident a result of inadequate procedures, training

Last update: March 18, 2008 - 9:09 PM

The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration said an accident that killed a United Taconite miner last April was the result of inadequate policies and training.

Deane Driscoll, 50, died from massive trauma on April 18 when the drill he was operating on a slope tipped over after malfunctioning. Driscoll was thrown 35 feet from the cab of the drilling machine.

The accident happened in Eveleth at United Mine, which is operated by United Taconite. A spokesman for parent company Cleveland-Cliffs did not immediately return a phone call seeking comment on Tuesday.

The government report said the accident occurred because the mine's management didn't have adequate procedures for safely operating the drill on grades and slopes. It also said employees weren't adequately trained.

The report said management should provide a stability and grade-ability chart and train workers to operate the drill properly.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Recent Local + Metro stories

Lawsuit to block foreclosures in state dismissed - March 18, 2008

Lawsuit to block foreclosures in state dismissed - A federal judge has dismissed a class-action lawsuit filed by a group of homeowners who sought to block foreclosures in Minnesota, but their attorney said the case led to significant progress anyway. More