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Fatality Alert - Fatality #13 - June 2, 2014

Accident Report: Fatality Reference

PDF Version

fab14m13.pdf (140.72 KB)

METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY -On June 2, 2014, a 36-year-old shaft repairman with 18 years of experience was killed at an underground silver mine. Two miners were working in a shaft standing on a work platform attached to a skip. The skip was hoisted and the victim was crushed between the skip and the shaft timber. 

Photo of the work platform. A gap is visible between the platform and the shaft chamber

Best Practices

  • Develop and implement a standard operating procedure (SOP) for the safe operation of hoists. Post these procedures near the hoist control panels in a conspicuous location and ensure persons are trained in these procedures.
  • Establish and discuss safe work procedures before beginning work. Identify and control all hazards associated with the work to be performed and use methods to properly protect persons.
  • Identify safe anchor points for fall protection and train all persons to understand the hazards related to fall protection and hoisting operations.
  • Communicate work activities prior to beginning a task and maintain communications throughout the shift.
  • Install audible and visual alarms which have adequate delay time to ensure persons are clear of impending hoist movement.
  • Ensure all miners are accounted for before movement of the hoist.
  • Conduct thorough examinations of all hoisting equipment and safety mechanisms on a daily basis. Ensure that persons conducting these examinations are trained adequately. Correct any deficiencies identified immediately.

Additional Information

This is the 13th fatality reported in calendar year 2014 in metal and nonmetal mining. As of this date in 2013, there were 8 fatalities reported in metal and nonmetal mining. This is the 1st Hoisting fatality in 2014. There were 0 Hoisting fatalities in the same period in 2013.