METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY- On July 1, 1999, a 59-year-old electrician (contractor operator)  was fatally electrocuted when he inadvertently came in contact with a 4160-volt transformer he was in the process of replacing. Three primary connector leads supplying energy to the transformer were disconnected and still energized.

Best Practices

• De-energize the incoming feeder circuit prior to working on any transformers.
  
  
• Work areas should be examined for hazardous conditions prior to starting task.

This is the 22nd fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1998, there were 28 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the first fatality classified as Electrical in 1999. There were no Electrical fatalities in the same period in 1998.

For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report