The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) reported that on Feb. 28, a contract miner died when he was crushed between the rib and a single boom face drill. The victim was alongside the drill using the onboard tram lever controls when the accident occurred because the remote control was inoperable.
This is the eighth fatality reported in 2022, and the third classified as “Machinery.”
MSHA recommends the following best practices to avoid this type of accident:
- Mobile equipment shall be maintained in safe operating condition. Immediately remove mobile equipment in unsafe condition from service.
- Always operate mobile equipment from a safe location. Use the remote control or operate from within the operator’s compartment if available.
- Determine the proper working position to avoid pinch points and Red Zone areas.
- Train miners on the safety aspects and safe operating procedures of mobile equipment before use. Review and discuss pinch points and Red Zone locations