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Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Accident Info-Gram
October 2007
Roof Fall on Bolter in Crosscut
On 10-30-2007, at approximately 1:30 pm, a right-side roof-bolting machine operator received
a fractured leg when hit by a rock measuring 3-ft x 5-ft x 8-in thick. The Fletcher dual-boom
roof-bolting machine was positioned with the ATRS up against the roof towards the left
crosscut, which was between the #1 and #0 entries. The machine was angled to place a
bolt into the left corner of the unbolted crosscut. The fresh cut was left with both corners
sheered, and it had a brow measuring about 36-in below the entry roof line. As the left-side roof
bolter began installing the first bolt in this location, the right-side roof bolter was returning to the
front of the machine. At this time, a section of the roof fell without warning. It measured about
19-ft x 21-ft x 3-ft thick. The rock hit the machine and broke into several pieces striking both
operators. The right-side operator was injured, and the right-side canopy was destroyed. The
left-side operator was uninjured.
BEST PRACTICES
- Make short cuts when adverse roof conditions exist to establish a competent roof line.
- Check work areas for hazardous roof and rib conditions frequently.
- Support all brows securely.
- Be aware of loose roof rock that may fall or slide when ATRS is pressurized.
- Make sure to position yourself in a safe location at all times.
This information was provided by concerned
miners in an effort to eliminate accidents. Accident or "close
call" information within District 8 may be shared by contacting
the MSHA office at (812) 882-7617.
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