When the Westray mine exploded, the human tragedy and suffering that resulted were chilling proof that the age-old price paid for coal is human blood. After the dead were laid to rest, the bureaucratic back-stabbing and corporate refusal of responsibility were all too familiar to followers of the history of mining and labour. Andrew and Pam have a young son, and they have just purchased their first home. Even though conditions at Westray are nearly subhuman, and the mine is known to be dangerously mismanaged, Andy, alongside his co-workers, must descend under the ground again and again because the livelihood of his loved ones rests on his shoulders.