Skip to content
PDF Version

METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On September 29, 2003, a 55-year-old dredge operator, with 32 years experience, was fatally injured at a surface sand and gravel mine. The victim exited a control booth, located adjacent to a dump hopper, and walked down the hopper ramp. At the same time, a front end loader operator dumped a load at the hopper, backed down the ramp, and struck the victim.

Photo of Accident Scene

Best Practices

  • Ensure that foot traffic is restricted in areas where mobile equipment travels.
  • Ensure, by signal or other means, that all persons are clear before moving equipment.
  • When approaching large mobile equipment, do not proceed until eye contact is made with, or approval obtained from, the equipment operator.
    • More Information E-mail Suggestion for Accident Prevention Program Submit your own suggestion for a remedy to prevent this type of accident in the future.
    Please specify if you wish your submission to be anonymous or whether your name may be used. Please include the year of the fatality and the fatality number.

    This is the 18th fatality reported in calendar year 2003 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2002, there were 29 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the second fatality classified as powered haulage in 2003. There were 11 powered haulage fatalities in the same period in 2002.

    The information provided in this notice is based on preliminary data ONLY and does not represent final determinations regarding the nature of the incident or conclusions regarding the cause of the fatality.


    For more information:
    Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report