Accident Report: Fatality Reference
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fab11c17.pdf
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COAL MINE FATALITY - On Monday, October 17, 2011, a 62-year old miner was killed on the surface of the underground mine while using a jumper cable to move a track-mounted back hoe machine at a gap in the trolley wire. When reenergized by a jumper cable, the machine struck and ran over him. The victim had 30 years of mining experience, with one day of experience operating this machine.
Best Practices
- Assure all tram control switches are in the off position and the brake is set before applying a DC power jumper to the machine.
- Always attach a nip on the machine first, then attach the nip on trolley wire, while standing in a safe location.
- Ensure adequate task training is provided to equipment operators which cover all machine controls, functions and hazards related to the machine operation and any safe operating procedures related to the specific equipment operation.
- Use self-centering tram/power controls to limit unexpected machine movement.
Additional Information
This is the 17th fatality reported during calendar year 2011 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2010, there were 45 fatalities reported in coal mining. This fatality is classified as a Machinery accident. At this time in 2010, there were three fatalities reported in this classification.