Accident Report: Fatality Reference
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fab11c04.pdf
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COAL MINE FATALITY - - On Friday, March 25, 2011, a 54-year old continuous mining machine operator with 35 years of experience was killed when he was caught between the coal rib and the conveyor boom of the remote controlled continuous mining machine he was operating.
Best Practices
- AVOID "RED ZONES"!!! Prior to tramming the continuous mining machine to a new place, ensure the machine operator is positioned outside the turning radius of the machine.
- Prior to tramming the continuous mining machine to a new place, ensure the tip of the conveyor boom is positioned on the side of the mining machine opposite to the side where the machine operator is located.
Install MSHA approved Proximity Detection Systems on continuous mining machines. - Assign another miner to assist the continuous mining machine operator. Train all persons in the programs, policies, and procedures for operating or working near remote controlled continuous mining machines.
Additional Information
This is the fourth fatality reported during calendar year 2011 in the coal mining industry. This is the third fatality classified as a Machinery accident in 2011. Two coal mine fatalities occurred in 2010 within the same period. No machinery accidents occurred during the same period in 2010.