CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - State investigators have determined a contract mechanic killed in a mining accident in March made several mistakes that contributed to his death.
State mine inspector Gary Wolfe says 47-year-old John Workman didn't do enough to support a 1,360-pound metal plate he was removing from a bulldozer at a Fayette County prep plant. Workman died when the plate fell on him.
A state report released Wednesday concludes Workman also removed the plate's bolts in the wrong order, forcing him to work directly beneath it. He likewise failed to notice a broken hinge that contributed to the accident.
Plant owner Appalachian Fuels has since agreed to require two people to remove skid plates and use two chains for support, among other things.