Check weigher

nounStandard termMining

A representative elected by miners to verify the weight of extracted ore or coal.

A representative elected and paid by the mining crew to verify the weight of coal or ore brought to the surface. Operating alongside the company weighman, they ensure the scales are accurate and that miners receive fair payment for their piece-rate labor, preventing management from shortchanging the workers.

Heard on the job

Take that dispute to the check weigher if you think the company scale is running light.