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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On March 18, 1999, a 56-year-old superintendent with 4 weeks mining experience was fatally injured at a sand and gravel operation. The victim was using a metal bar to clean mud off of a return roller underneath a conveyor belt when he was caught and drawn into the pinch point.

Fatal Gram Picture

Best Practices

  • Maintenance should not be performed unless the power is off and machinery components are blocked against hazardous motion.

  • Moving machine parts should be guarded to protect persons from contact that could cause injury.

  • Mine operators should take measures to ensure all personnel are trained in safe work procedures.


This is the 12th fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1998, there were 14 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the fifth fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 1999. There were four Powered Haulage fatalities in the same period in 1998.

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






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