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Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Accident Info-Gram
SEPTEMBER 2001
Miner Caught by Ratio Feeder
On September 14, 2001 at 8:15 P.M., a District 8 miner caught
himself between a ratio feeder and a conveyor tail-structure
jack-post. The miner had positioned the feeder on the belt tail
of the 5-left-section for side dumping. As the employee was
reaching for the shutoff switch to de-energize the feeder, he
accidently hit the tram lever with his arm or clothing. This
caused the feeder to move suddenly and pin the miner between the
feeder and the adjacent jack-post. The jack-post secured the belt
tail structure. Mine personnel took the injured miner to a local
hospital and he was released on September 18, 2001. He suffered
traumatic asphyxia and a laceration of the liver. The employee is
expected to return to work in three or four weeks.
BEST PRACTICES
- All persons, including the machine operator, must always be
away from pinch points when equipment is energized.
- Miners should use alternate de-energizing switches when
necessary to protect themselves and others.
- Be prepared for the unexpected! Accidental movement
of equipment can occur at anytime.
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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