Accident Report: Fatality Reference
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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY – On March 8, 2016, a 54-year old miner with 5 years of mining experience was killed at a surface sand and gravel operation. The miner backed his haul truck over a dump site and the driver was found at the bottom of the embankment, 60 feet below. The victim was found unresponsive and partially submerged in water. CPR was attempted, but the victim was not able to be resuscitated.
Best Practices
- Maintain berms at least mid-axle height on the largest piece of equipment using a roadway.
- Visually inspect dumping locations prior to beginning work and as changing conditions warrant. Clearly mark dump locations with reflectors and/or markers.
- Provide training to all dump-point workers on recognizing dump-point hazards, taking appropriate corrective measures, and using safe dumping procedures. Instruct all drivers to maintain the truck perpendicular to the edge when backing up at dump sites.
- To lower risks at dump areas, dumping should be conducted a safe distance from the edge. Utilize a bulldozer with the "dump-short, push-over" method of spoiling material.
- Ensure work areas and dump sites are properly illuminated at night.
- Equipment operators should always wear seat belts.
- Monitor persons routinely to determine safe work procedures are followed.
Additional Information
This is the 2nd fatality reported in calendar year 2016 in metal and nonmetal mining. As of this date in 2015, there were 4 fatalities reported in metal and nonmetal mining. This is the 1st power haulage fatality in 2016. There were no power haulage fatalities in the same period in 2015.