HANDTOOLS (NONPOWERED) at Eastern Associated Coal LLC
EMPLOYEE WAS STANDING ON A 6' LADDER WEDGING A CRIB. HE HAD HIS LEFT HAND AGAINST THE CRIB TO HELP STEADY HIMSELF WHILE USING AN AXE IN HIS RIGHT HAND TO STRIKE A GLUT (LARGE WOOD WEDGE). THE AXE GLANCED OFF THE GLUT STRIKING HIM ON HIS LEFT THUMB. THIS RESULTED IN AN INJURY TO THE LEFT THUMB THAT REQUIRED SIX SUTURES TO CLOSE.
U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration