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COAL MINE FATALITY - On Wednesday, May 11, 2005, at approximately 1:15 p.m., a 47-year old timberman, with 3½ years total mining experience and 1¼ years mine experience, received fatal crushing injuries when he was caught under the front end of a battery-powered EIMCO scoop. The scoop, equipped with a "duck bill" attachment, was loaded with roof support wedging materials. The victim was last seen walking approximately 5 to 6 feet ahead of the scoop on the left side in front of the "duck bill."

Photo of Accident Scene


Best Practices

  • Remain a safe distance from moving equipment until it has passed.
  • Walk behind moving mobile equipment when traveling in the same entry.
  • When operating mobile equipment, ensure that other workers are in a safe area before moving the equipment.
  • When necessary to walk or work in the area of moving mobile equipment, wear reflective clothing to ensure a high visibility.
More Information E-mail Suggestion for Accident Prevention Program 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 fifth fatality reported during calendar year 2005 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2004, there were ten fatalities reported in coal mining. This is the third fatality classified as powered haulage in 2005. There were four fatalities in this category at this time in 2004.

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:
Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report



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