MSHA - Accident Prevention Program - Miner's Tips

	MSHA's Accident Prevention Program Miner's Tip Positive Communications PDF Version

Mine Type: All Surface

Category: Communications

Can you see the white truck in the round mirror?
Can you see the person standing next to the white truck ?
The person is very hard to see.

Communication must be two-way or it isn't communication. This applies to audible and visual communication.

Recently a foreman was fatally injured when he was crushed beneath a truck. The accident occurred as the truck was backing toward the dump point. The victim was in the process of moving a water hose when a truck backed over him. Prior to the accident, the victim was in his office and notified the truck driver with a CB radio that he was going to cross the work area. However, it was later reported that no one heard a response to the victim's announcement. Following these communication procedures may save your life:

Always communicate with equipment operator prior to entering the work area. Let the equipment operator know what you are going to do and where you will do it.
Always get confirmation from the equipment operator that he/she heard you and understands your intentions.
Always make sure the equipment operator sees you before entering the work area, even after you have communicated your intentions.
Always notify the equipment operator of your intentions and get confirmation prior to moving to other areas around the equipment or leaving the work area.
If possible, communicate with the equipment operator once you have left the work area.
Wear a high visibility vest to increase your visibility in the work area.
Be aware of other individuals who may be in the work area and communicate your intentions with them. All individuals in the work area should use two-way radio or other effective means communication.
NEVER, NEVER, NEVER reenter a work area without restarting the communication process.

Reissued:	04/30/2002
Tag #	AP2002-M033

If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can e-mail it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your Miner's tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space.