US Aggregates hosted an emergency action drill at its Monon, Ind., quarry on July 24. The drill, in collaboration with Ozinga, Monon Fire Department, Monticello Fire Department and Lutheran Health Network, is part of an ongoing commitment to ensuring workplace safety for US Aggregates employees.
During the drill, an Ozinga employee noticed one of its “workers” (Steve, a dummy filled with water) was unresponsive. With the collaboration of everyone involved, they were able to airlift the worker out in just over 60 minutes.
“The reason we do EADs is to allow us to be better prepared for an emergency situation if it arises,” John Masterson, event organizer, said. “These allow training and updates for our team members in emergency preparedness, communication, and execution with our first responders along with helping educate our first responders in mine safety and rescue.”
The company’s Springville, Ind., operation also conducted an emergency action drill on July 30. The drill simulated what would happen if a 60-ton haul truck backed into a standard pickup truck while at the refueling station.
“We had conducted a drill involving the blind spots of a power haulage truck (Cat 773) and a typical quarry truck (Ford F-150) to demonstrate the various amounts of damage which could be incurred at different rates of travel,” Joe Long, plant manager, said.
After further crushing the truck with a loader, a participant got into the vehicle so other plant workers could attempt to pull him out and load him onto a stretcher.
“The data gathered is proving to be very valuable and has opened the door for discussions in our shortcomings, as well as the positive things we did effectively and efficiently,” said Long.
Applying the information learned, another emergency action drill is being planned in the near future.