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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On May 26, 2005, a 66-year old dredge operator, with 48 years mining experience, was seriously injured at a sand and gravel operation. The victim had repaired an impeller on a water pump and was going to check the pump for vibration. When he started the pump, a piece of pipe, that was still attached to a ratchet handle on a shaft bolt, struck him in the head. The victim was hospitalized and died of his injuries on July 3, 2005.

Photo of Accident Scene

Best Practices

  • Stop, Look, Analyze, and Manage (SLAM) each task.
  • Ensure miners clearly communicate work procedures with each other.
  • Always wear a hard hat.
  • When repairs are completed, take a minute to ensure all tools are put away.
  • Examine area for any hazards before re-energizing equipment.
  • Practice safe work habits during the entire task.
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 17th fatality reported in calendar year 2005 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2004, there were 13 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 7th fatality classified as machinery in 2005. There were four Machinery fatalities during the same period 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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