Collapse at factory-run coal mine in North Hamgyong province injures worker
A coal mine collapse in North Korea’s North Hamgyong province on Sept. 12 seriously injured one worker. The accident highlights how production pressure is outpacing safety measures as winter approaches. A source in North Hamgyong province told Daily NK recently that the accident occurred at a mine run by a machinery factory. Timber supports holding […]
On September 12, a coal mine collapse in North Hamgyong province, North Korea, seriously injured one worker. The accident occurred at a mine operated by a machinery factory and involved timber supports holding up an inclined shaft giving way as workers were heading in for their shift. One of the three workers buried under the dirt was taken to a hospital with serious injuries to his lower back and legs.
The factory, which produces machinery for coal mines, uses the coal for heating and cooking at its sanatorium and workers' dormitories. Coal mine collapses highlight gaps in worker safety as winter approaches, with factory party committees pushing for more coal production. The mine shows little sign of replacing old timber supports, despite workers' concerns about the risk of further accidents.
Factory party committees are local branches of the Workers' Party of Korea that oversee management and production drives. Work at the mine has temporarily stopped since the accident, with factory officials prioritizing coal production over worker safety.
Written by urgent.news from Daily NK's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
