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Fatality Alert - Fatality #19 - September 26, 2014

Accident Report: Fatality Reference

PDF Version

fab-m19.pdf (66.45 KB)

METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY -On September 26, 2014, a 55-year-old maintenance mechanic with approximately 2 years of experience was killed on the surface of an underground salt mine.  The victim was performing maintenance on a forklift in a mill building when the forklift moved forward, pinning him against a wooden support pole.

A forklift shown against a wooden support beam.

Best Practices

  • Conduct a pre-operational check to identify and correct any defects that may affect the safe operation prior to operating mobile equipment.  Remove the mobile equipment from service if any defective items are not corrected.
  • 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.  
  • Ensure that persons are trained, including task-training, to address the hazards associated with the work being performed.
  • Block and secure equipment against motion before performing maintenance.
  • Follow the equipment manufacturers recommended maintenance procedures when performing repairs to machinery.
  • Ensure that equipment control switches are in the off position and the brake is set before performing maintenance.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings and any hazards that may be present. 

Additional Information

This is the 19th fatality reported in calendar year 2014 in metal and nonmetal mining.  As of this date in 2013, there were 13 fatalities reported in metal and nonmetal mining.  This is the 5th Powered Haulage fatality in 2014.  There were 6 Powered Haulage  fatalities in the same period in 2013.