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Best Practices - Developed by the Surface Haulage Safety Task Force
in Cooperation with MSHA


PRE & POST-OPERATION INSPECTION OF SURFACE HAULAGE EQUIPMENT

Miners who operate haulage machines should develop a "Zero Compromise" safety attitude. Simply put, this means that they will not operate equipment that is not properly maintained.

An operator's knowledge of the machine and how it works is directly proportional to his/her ability to safely operate the machine and to control it in an emergency.

Inspecting the workplace for potentially hazardous conditions is an important part of every equipment operator's job. At a minimum, this includes performing pre- and post-shift inspections of their machine. Using an equipment inspection system, will help the operator to make sure that the haulage machine is mechanically sound and in good operating condition.

The intent of the following list of items is not to turn you into a maintenance person, but to help you to gain a good working knowledge of the various components and systems of the machine you run.

Your Task Is To
  • Perform a systematic pre- and post-operation inspection of the machine using a designated inspection report form to record your comments.
Before Starting Your Inspection
  • Have you been trained in how to operate the machine?

  • Do you know if there is a manufacturer's manual on the machine?

  • Have you been trained on how to conduct a pre-shift or post-operation inspection of the machine?
The Inspection Process
  • Have a designated start and end point for your inspection.

  • Follow the inspection process and record on the report any mechanical or safety defects you find.

  • Do not smoke during the inspection as fuel, fluids, and lubricants are potential fire and explosion hazards.
You Need To
  • Check the machine for major damage to its structure or other components.

  • Inspect the ROPS (rollover protective system) and FOPS (falling object protective system). Has it been drilled into, welded on, or damaged? Can you find the certification tag?

  • Check safety appliances such as fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, seat belts, lighting, glass, and wipers. Is everything in good shape and working correctly?

  • Examine tires, wheels, and rims, for obvious damage. Move away from the tire if you see any obvious swelling or separation between the tire and the rim and report it to the appropriate supervisor.

  • Look for fuel, coolant, and lubrication leaks.

  • Warn people around the machine that you are going to start it.

  • While the machine is running, listen for pneumatic leaks, and check gauges for proper pressure ranges.

  • See that the electrical system is operating within appropriate amp, volt, and current draw requirements.

    See that all pressure, temperature, and positiontype gauges in the operator's compartment are within limits.

  • Warn people around the machine that you are going to move it.

  • Perform (if applicable) an operational check of the secondary (emergency) braking system and/or the steering system before entering a production area.

  • At slow speed, test the friction brakes

  • At a slightly accelerated speed, test the electrical/mechanical retarding system.

  • Test the steering system for response, when you have enough room to maneuver the machine.

    U.S. Department of Labor
    Mine Safety and Health Administration



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