Ten Machinery Fatal Accidents
Ten machinery accidents occurred. These fatal accidents involved three bulldozers, a haul truck tire’s locking ring that dislodged and struck a miner, and the side plate of a shaker screen that fell during disassembly and struck a miner. It also includes two truck drivers who were fatally struck, and three miners who were struck while equipment lifts were being performed.
Best Practices
- Maintain equipment in safe operating condition.
- Examine work areas prior to beginning work and operating heavy equipment.
- Operate equipment on stable ground and away from hazards.
- Maintain control of equipment and stay alert.
- Always wear seatbelts: remain inside the cab; never attempt to jump clear; consider the use of four-point seat belt systems and new technology that provides early warning of tipping.
- Provide adequate means to prevent locking rings (rims) from creating a hazard. Use tire cages and deflate tires before conducting repairs.
- Train miners to safely perform task.