All evidence will be identified by MSHA and OMSH&T investigators and collected by the Evidence Gathering Team. After a Photography Team photographs the designated evidence, the Evidence Gathering Team will place the evidence in containers for removal from the mine. Upon removal, the evidence will be placed in a secure location on the surface area of the mine for transport to storage or testing facilities. All parties will be notified of any tests to be conducted on evidence and given an opportunity to attend the testing.

Since the formation of the Upper Big Branch Mine accident investigation team two months ago, it has completed approximately 100 interviews of individuals who may have knowledge of the mine, its conditions and events leading up to the explosion.

MSHA will hold a series of public hearings to further understand the cause of the explosion that resulted in the deaths of 29 miners. Following the public hearings and other public events, MSHA will issue a formal report on the cause of the explosion.