Mines launch safety inspections , Equipment checks, lectures precede workers' shifts at sites across state

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Thousands of West Virginia miners got safety lectures at the startof their shifts and officials began a round of inspections across theNo. 2 coal-producing state in a "time-out" urged by the governor.

Sixteen West Virginia workers have been killed in mining-relatedaccidents over the past month - up from a record low of three lastyear - in what is already the deadliest year in the state'scoalfields in more than a decade.

Gov. Joe Manchin called on coal operators to hold safetydiscussions after accidents at separate mines Wednesday claimed thelatest two lives.

Manchin said he was pleased with reports that mining companies,which employ …