MSHA reported that on June 1, a customer truck driver at Summit Materials’ Hockley Plant, Harris, Texas, died when he was struck by a component of his truck’s air bag height/ride suspension system while performing maintenance.
This is the 21st fatality reported in 2023, and the seventh classified as “Machinery.”
MSHA recommends the following best practices to avoid this type of accident:
- Follow manufacturer’s recommended procedures when performing maintenance on suspension system components.
- Release all stored energy from components before beginning maintenance.
- Position yourself in a safe location while pressurizing systems.
- Train miners in safe work procedures and hazard recognition. Monitor personnel routinely to ensure they follow safe work procedures.