On Thursday, May 17, 2012, at approximately 12:00 p.m., a 57-year-old mechanic was killed at a coal preparation plant. The victim was standing on a 14-foot fiberglass extension ladder when it became unstable and slid across an I-beam. He fell down an adjacent hoist well opening 39 feet to the concrete floor below. He was attempting to cut and remove a 12-inch hoist beam located above the third floor in the plant.

Best Practices

• Use fall protection when working in an elevated position and securely tie-off where the danger of falling exists.
• Ensure all workers are adequately trained in the use of fall protection and restraint devices.
• Examine fall protection equipment and personal protective equipment before each use. Ensure that defective equipment is replaced.
• Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement.
• Properly position ladders to ensure that footing is secure, that the ladder is resting in a manner that prevents movement, and that the ladder is protected from being struck by moving objects.
• Keep your body centered between the rails of the ladder at all times. Do not lean too far to the side while working.

On Wednesday, April 25, 2012, a 61-year-old demolition contractor with approximately 20 years of experience was killed from injuries received while dismantling a conveyor stacker belt from the surface area of an inactive underground coal mine. The victim had completed the final torch cut on an elevated, inclined stacker frame support beam containing the counter-weight, when the structure fell. The structure contacted the walkway (catwalk) where the victim was located. This section of the walkway, approximately 25 feet long, broke loose from the main structure, causing the victim to fall approximately 27 feet.

Best Practices

• Establish safe work procedures, which include incorporating the manufacturer’s recommendations, to assure that workers are not exposed to hazards when performing maintenance, repairs, or demolition activity.
• Prior to beginning work, ensure that all workers are trained in safe work procedures.
• Examine work areas during the shift for hazards that may be created as a result of the work being performed.
• Before starting any work, clear the area of tripping and stumbling hazards.
• Provide and maintain safe access to all work areas.
• Secure structures against unexpected movement when performing demolition work.
• Use appropriate fall protection where there is a danger of falling.
• Stay focused on your work for your own safety and the safety of your fellow workers.