METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On September 18, 1998, a 55-year old equipment broker was fatally injured at a dimension stone mine. The victim and several co-workers were at the mine to transport a wheel loader with a back hoe attachment. The equipment operator attempted to actuate the hydraulic controls, even though the linkage was defective. The victim was standing between the back hoe arm and a parked front end loader. When the hydraulic control engaged, the arm swung, crushing him against the parked loader.

• Defects on mobile equipment should be identified and corrected prior to the equipment being used.

• Mobile equipment operators should ensure that all persons are clear of any hazards prior to activating movable components.

This is the 40th fatality reported in calendar year 1998 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1997, there were 50 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 15th fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 1998. There were 20 Powered Haulage fatalities in the same period in 1997. (Please note the 1997 final fatality count was changed from 60 to 61 after the close of the calendar year).

For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report

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