• Never operate a truck or moving machine without using a seat belt.
• Never attempt to jump from a moving truck or machine.
• Ensure that seat belts are in good condition and operating properly.
• Conduct pre-operational checks to identify any defects that may affect the safe operation of equipment before it is placed into service. Pay special attention to ensuring the brakes are properly adjusted and there are no significant air leaks.
• Operate loaded trucks in an appropriate gear for the grade, load, and speed.
• Never operate a truck where the brakes will not stop it.
• Never rely on engine brakes and transmission retarders as substitutes for keeping brakes properly maintained.

	Submit your own suggestion for a remedy to prevent this type of accident in the future. Please specify if you wish your submission to be anonymous or whether your name may be used. Please include the year of the fatality and the fatality number.

This is the 11^th fatality reported in calendar year 2004 in the coal mining industry. As of the accident date in 2003, there were 12 fatalities reported in the coal mining industry. This is the 5^th fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 2004. At this time in 2003, there were 4 fatalities classified as Powered Haulage.

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The information provided in this notice is based on preliminary data ONLY and does not represent final determinations regarding the nature of the incident or conclusions regarding the cause of the fatality.

For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report