On November 11, 2018, a 45-year old Underground Technician with 4 years of experience was killed when the Load-Haul-Dump (LHD) machine he had been operating underground ran over him.
Best Practices
- Ensure that all braking systems installed on mobile equipment function properly when the engine is operating and when it is shut off. Do not depend on hydraulic systems to hold mobile equipment in a stationary position
- Block LHDs against motion by setting the parking brake. Turn the tires toward the rib and lower the bucket onto the floor. Use wheel chocks when parking mobile equipment.
- Conduct adequate pre-operational examinations on all self-propelled mobile equipment and promptly correct any defects affecting safety.
- Before beginning a task, miners should discuss the work procedures, identify all possible hazards, and ensure steps are taken to safely perform the task.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf), Final Report (pdf).