Research Report on the Coal Pillar Recovery under Deep Cover

n the FY 2008 Appropriation (Public Law 110-161), Congress directed NIOSH to conduct "a study of the recovery of coal pillars through retreat room-and-pillar mining practices in underground coal mines at depths greater than 1,500 ft." This report includes recommendations to enhance the safety of miners working in underground coal mines where retreat mining in room-and-pillar operations is utilized. Among other things, the recommendations identify means of adapting any practical technology to the mining environment to improve miner protections during mining at depths greater than 1,500 ft, and research needed to develop improved technology to improve miner protections during mining at such depths.