COAL MINE FATALITY - On Thursday, April 5, 2007, a 50 year-old miner with 27 years of mining experience was walking behind a roof bolting machine when he stepped on a small rock, twisted his left ankle, and fell to the mine floor. The victim was treated for a simple fracture and was released from a nearby hospital. However, medical complications (embolism) occurred and caused his death 23 days later.
Best Practices
Conduct thorough visual examinations of work area prior to performing any work in the area and thereafter as conditions warrant. Remove obstructions and items from the work area that may cause possible slipping and tripping hazards. Be aware of footing and surrounding areas while working.
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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. |
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This is the 7th fatality reported during calendar year 2007 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2006, there were 22 fatalities reported in coal mining. This is the first fatality classified as Stepping or Kneeling on Object in 2007. At this time in 2006, there were no fatalities in this classification.
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:
MSHA's Fatal Accident
Investigation Report