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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On May 19, 2006, a 77-year-old contractor electrician, with 58 years experience, was fatally injured at a construction sand and gravel operation. The victim was checking an electrical motor, contacted an energized conductor, and was electrocuted.

Photo of accident scene described in the paragraph above

Best Practices
Before YOU perform electrical work:
  • Positively determine which circuit is to be worked on and identify the disconnecting device.
  • De-energize power from the circuit and place YOUR lock on the switch.
  • Utilize proper Personal Protective Equipment, including rated electrical gloves.
  • Test the circuit for voltage using properly rated test equipment.
  • Ground all phase conductors to the equipment grounding conductor with a jumper.
  • When troubleshooting, use extreme caution if you are using temporary connections or wiring.
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 10th fatality reported in calendar year 2006 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2005, there were 10 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 2nd Electrical fatality in 2006. There was one Electrical fatality in the same period in 2005.

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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