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Fatality Alert - Fatality #15 - September 1, 2011

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Accident Report: Fatality Reference

PDF Version

fab11c15.pdf (69.46 KB)

COAL MINE FATALITY - On Thursday September 1, 2011, a 29-year-old contract driller with 1 year, 3 months of experience was killed at a surface coal mine. The victim was attempting to separate a pipe connection when he was struck by a tong wrench. The rig was being used to drill a water well. The crew was working to free the drill stem that was stuck in the drill hole when the accident occurred.

surface coal mine

Best Practices

  • Stand a safe distance from areas of potential high energy release.
  • Know the radius of machinery that pivots.
  • Establish and follow safe work procedures.
  • Ensure all components are adequately blocked and secured to prevent unintended motion.
  • Know the limitations of equipment used for blocking motion and ensure that they are used within their specified limitations.
  • Ensure all components are in good repair.
  • Establish and follow communication procedures.

Additional Information

This is the 14th fatality reported during calendar year 2011 in the coal mining industry. This is the fifth fatality classified as a Machinery accident in 2011. Forty-three coal mine fatalities occurred in 2010 within the same period. Three Machinery fatalities occurred in 2010 in the same period.