Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration

Info-Gram
FEBRUARY 2000

Underground Miners
Struck by Shuttle Car

1. A remote control miner was cutting in the #1 room neck in the last open crosscut of a three room setup. The return side shuttle car was traveling up the #2 Entry and over to #1 Entry, through the last open crosscut. Three trips had been made. The section foreman and mechanic were sitting in the #2 Room, about five feet inby the last open crosscut (face was approximately 60 feet inby). On the fourth trip, the return side car operator failed to make the turn into the last open crosscut. The shuttle car traveled straight ahead, towards the #2 Room, striking both the mechanic and the section foreman. Both were dragged approximately five feet by the shuttle car. The foreman sustained a bruised right leg and received four stitches. The mechanic also received bruises to both legs and needed several stitches.
   
2. The section foreman had walked to the continuous miner to deliver some “not bolted” signs. He then walked back towards the #6 Entry, behind the line curtain directing air to the continuous miner. The foreman was on the blind side of the curtain when a shuttle car traveled from the #43 Room, towards the #6 Entry. The rear of the shuttle car struck the section foreman, apparently rolling him, and causing him to fall down. The injured foreman did not lose consciousness and was able to call for help. First aid was administered and he was transported out of the mine. The injured was taken to the hospital where he was treated for several bruises and later released.
   

• Stay clear of moving equipment at all times.
• Never assume your location is safe around mobile equipment while in operation.
• When approaching curtains or blind areas, mobile equipment operators should sound warning devices.

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.