On June 24, 2010, a 29 year old continuous mining machine operator with 12 years experience received fatal injuries when he was caught between the right rib and the remote controlled continuous mining machine he was operating.
Best Practices
- Install MSHA approved Proximity Detection Systems on continuous mining machines.
http://www.msha.gov/Accident_Prevention/... - Avoid “Red Zone” areas associated with remote controlled continuous mining machines and other mobile equipment.
http://www.msha.gov/webcasts/coal2004/REDZONE2.pdf - Ensure equipment is being operated safely, especially in low mining heights, and slippery and uneven floor conditions.
- Maintain equipment in a safe operating condition.
- Observe work practices and provide timely feedback.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf), Spanish Fatalgram (pdf), MSHA Investigation Report (pdf).