An investigation began today into the causes of a coal mine blast in northwest Turkey which killed 13 miners. The explosion happened in Dursunbey in Balikesir Province. Dursunbey was also the site of a 2006 mining disaster which killed 17. International Mining’s Editor and Publisher, John Chadwick, was interviewed today by Turkey’s 6News on the primary causes of coal mine explosions and how they can be avoided www.news6.com.tr/en. Chadwick commented that since there had been an accident at the same mine in 2006, the authorities should be taking a long hard look at this mine’s safety standards. He explained that mines known to have methane problems should ensure there is sufficient ventilation air passing through the workings, should practice methane drainage and should ensure that the workforce is provided with appropriate methane testing equipment. Miners themselves should be vigilant and of course cigarettes, matches, cigarette lighters, etc. should never be taken underground.