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COAL MINE FATALITY - On Friday, September 3, 1999, a preparation plant mechanic and another employee were using a material hoist to lift a 55 gallon drum to the third floor of the preparation plant. When the mechanic reached out to guide the suspended drum to the third floor, a corroded railing gave way and he fell approximately 50 feet to the ground floor of the preparation plant.

Coal Fatal Photo

BEST PRACTICES

  • Safety belts should be worn at all times where a danger of falling exists.
  • Tag lines or other devices should be used to guide suspended loads during hoisting operations.
  • Metal railings, walkways and stairs should be examined frequently for corrosion or other signs of deterioration

This is the 24th fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 1998, there were 21 fatalities. This is the second fatality classified as Fall of Person in 1999.

For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL99C24]

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