On September 6, 2024, a continuous mining machine (CMM) operator died when roof rock fell and struck him while he worked under unsupported roof. At the time of the accident, the operator was repositioning the CMM after taking an extended cut through an intersection into the adjacent crosscut.
Best Practices
- Never travel under unsupported roof.
- Install reflectors, lights, and barricades to clearly identify the next to last full row of bolts to warn miners to not travel under unsupported roof.
- Follow the extended cut requirements in the approved roof control plan and train miners on the plan.
- Take extended cuts only in areas with competent roof conditions. Take shorter cuts when adverse roof conditions are encountered.
- Install intersection support in accordance with the approve roof control plan
- Advance headings so they are flush across their width and fully supported. Until headings are flush across their width and fully supported, do not take additional cuts.
- Do not position yourself along either side of the CMM while tramming.