METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On July 18, 2007, a 42 year-old front-end loader operator, with 19 years experience, was fatally injured at a dredge operation. He was operating one of two front-end loaders that were transporting a section of pipeline to the dredge pond. While the victim's front-end loader was positioned near the edge of the pond, a large section of the sandy bank sloughed off and submerged the loader. The victim was entrapped inside the loader cab and drowned.
Stop, Look, Analyze, and Manage, SLAM each task to identify all potential hazards. Initiate action to protect yourself when performing every task. Evaluate the stability of the ground prior to operating equipment near any drop off or edge. Use equipment (excavator) that can perform the work from a safe distance away from the edge of a pond where the stability of the ground may be unknown. Require that flotation devices be worn by persons performing work where there is a danger of falling in the water.
This is the 15th fatality reported in calendar year 2007 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2006, there were 17 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 4th Powered Haulage fatality in 2007. There were 6 Powered Haulage fatalities in the same period in 2006.
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