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Mine Safety and Health Administration MSHA's Accident Prevention Program
Miner's Tip

Parking Mobile Equipment Safely

PDF Version
 Safety Something YOU can live with!
Mine Type: All
Category: Mobile Equipment


Mine Safety and Health Administration MSHA's Accident Prevention Program
Miner's Tip

Title

PDF Version
 Safety Something YOU can live with!
Mine Type:
Category:
Several fatalities have occurred over the years in both surface and underground mines due to vehicles running away after being stopped and left unattended. In some instances, the incorrect brake was applied and as air or hydraulic pressure leaked off, the brake released and the vehicle began to move. In other instances, the park brake was either not set at all or was in need of adjustment.

Depending on the grade where the equipment is parked and the strength of the parking brake, a dangerous situation can also develop where the vehicle will initially be stationary and in a matter of seconds or minutes it will start to roll away. This is due to reshaping of the tires as they become accustomed to the resistance of the irregular ground surface. The effect is similar to removing an obstacle from under the tire.

In addition to setting the proper brake(s), always

  • Turn the wheels into the rib, the berm or in the direction of the highwall face

  • Lower the bucket or blade to the ground if applicable, and

  • Never try to jump back in the cab to regain control of a runaway vehicle.

Issued: 06/03/2002
Tag # AP2002-M049


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