Fatality #9 - December 02, 2016

Lapse in Appropriations

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Accident Classification: Machinery

Location: Oak Grove Mine - Alabama

Mine Controller: ERP Compliant Fuels, LLC

Mine Type: Underground

Mined Material: Coal (Bituminous)

Incident Date/Time: December 2, 2016 11:00 am

During set-up procedures for a new longwall installation two technical representatives for the shield manufacturer were in the process of adding components to the hydraulic system of a longwall shield. One technician was positioned inside the shield near the hinge point when the shield collapsed, crushing the victim. Responders were able to raise the shield to recover the victim. The victim was transported to the surface where he was pronounced dead.

PRELIMINARY REPORT

During set-up procedures for a new longwall installation, two technical representatives for the shield manufacturer were in the process of adding components to the hydraulic system of a longwall shield. One technician was positioned inside the shield near the hinge point when the shield collapsed, crushing the victim. Responders were able to raise the shield to recover the victim. The victim was transported to the surface where he was pronounced dead.