MSHA inspectors failed to follow policy prior to UBB tragedy, internal review finds
An investigation by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) found that enforcement efforts at the Upper Big Branch Mine (UBB) were "compromised" prior to the deadly 2010 explosion there, due to a failure to follow established policy on the part of agency personnel.
"While there was no evidence linking the actions of MSHA employees to this tragedy, we found instances where enforcement efforts at UBB were compromised because MSHA and District 4 did not follow established agency policies and procedures," said internal review team leader George Fesak.