Factors associated with fatal mining injuries among contractors and operators.

Abstract

To explore factors associated with fatal accidents among contractors and operators by using the Mine Safety and Health Administration database. Cross-sectional data on 157,410 miners employed by operators or contractors during 1998-2007 were analyzed using logistic regression and multiple imputation. Univariate odds of fatal versus nonfatal accident were 2.8 (95% confidence interval, 2.3 to 3.4) times higher for contractors than operators. In a multivariable model, fatality was associated with contractor, less experience at the current mine, and occurrence at more than 8 hours into the workday (P < 0.05 for each). Differences in odds of fatality by employment type were more pronounced in surface mines. Contractors had a higher proportion of fatal injuries. Fatality also varied by mine experience, the number of hours worked before injury, work location, and mine type.