"18 Colombia miners dead; 50 missing" by Associated Press | June 19, 2010
AMAGA, Colombia — Authorities held out little hope yesterday for the dozens of workers trapped underground after an explosion ripped through a coal mine, killing at least 18 during a shift change.
At least 50 workers remained unaccounted for a day and a half after the explosion, and rescue efforts were moving slowly, impeded by the presence of dangerous gases, officials said. Authorities believe a methane gas buildup caused the explosion. Rescue workers also lacked oxygen tanks....
Mining Minister Hernan Martinez said the mine would not reopen until an investigation into the blast is complete.
He said Thursday that the mine’s records indicate it lacked a methane ventilation pipe and gas-detection devices — basic safety features in coal mines.
Jorge Buitrago, general manager for the mine, owned by Carbones San Fernando, told the AP that it complied with safety requirements for monitoring and controlling gases. He declined to comment further.
Rule of thumb: Industry always lies.
Relatives of the missing miners said the workers earned from $300 to $600 a month and conditions were generally good, although temperatures rose as high as 113 degrees Fahrenheit.
Yeah, working a coal mine is great.
Related: Former defense chief wins Colombia runoff
Also see: Colombian Crap
Third times a turd, 'er, charm.
