On Friday, March 25, 2011, a 54-year old continuous mining machine operator with 35 years of experience was killed when he was caught between the coal rib and the conveyor boom of the remote controlled continuous mining machine he was operating.
Best Practices
- AVOID “RED ZONES”!!! Prior to tramming the continuous mining machine to a new place, ensure the machine operator is positioned outside the turning radius of the machine. MSHA Red Zone webcast (pdf)
- Prior to tramming the continuous mining machine to a new place, ensure the tip of the conveyor boom is positioned on the side of the mining machine opposite to the side where the machine operator is located.
- Install MSHA approved Proximity Detection Systems on continuous mining machines. Proximity Detection Single Source
- Assign another miner to assist the continuous mining machine operator. Train all persons in the programs, policies, and procedures for operating or working near remote controlled continuous mining machines. Additional information on preventing these types of accidents can be found at: MSHA’s Safety Targets Program Hit By Underground Equipment.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf), MSHA Investigation Report (pdf).