International Coal Group Chief Executive Ben Hatfield says failing to do a better job following mine safety laws poses a greater threat to the industry than even climate change legislation.
Hatfield says it's become clear that mine operators are exposed to greater public scrutiny from the media, shareholders, banks, electric companies and even steel manufacturers. He says successful companies will do a better job following the law.
Hatfield spoke at an industry conference in Bluefield on Tuesday.
The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration has stressed enforcement since the April 5 explosion that killed 29 miners at Massey Energy's Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia.
Hatfield says ICG's steps include hiring 60 compliance officers for its mines.
