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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY- - On April 29, 1998, a 39-year old bull dozer operator with 15 years of mining experience was fatally injured while attempting to tow a truck that had become stuck. He backed the dozer to the rear of the truck and attached a chain. In the process of pulling the truck out, the chain broke and struck the dozer operator in the temple. He received severe head injuries and died several days later.

Best Practices

  • A properly sized tow bar or other effective methods should be used to tow equipment. If a chain is used, it should be of suitable size and construction.

  • When dozers are used for towing they should be provided with backguards.
This is the 23rd fatality reported in calendar year 1998 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1997, there were 27 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the third fatality classified as Machinery in 1998. There were five fatalities in the same period in 1997.

For more information:
Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report




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