Fatality rates and regulatory policies in bituminous coal mining, United States, 1959-1981

In the eleven years prior to the passage of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, rates changed little for underground miners and were increasing for surface miners, Following implementation of the 1969 Act, both rates decreased. Beginning in 1979, and continuing into the first six months of 1982, both rates increased. These associations suggest tht current relaxation of regulations and policies for coal safety are unwarranted.