Skip to content
METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On May 16, 1996, a loader operator with 10 years of mining experience was killed at a sand and gravel operation. The transfer conveyor shut down causing the tail pulley area to be engulfed in material. The employee, a co-worker and the foreman shoveled out enough material to free the conveyor for operation. When the foreman went to the generator trailer to start the conveyor, the employee climbed onto the conveyor to shovel off more material. The conveyor started, and the employee was transported approximately 150 feet where he was caught in an eight inch gap between the head pulley cross member and the pulley. The victim sustained severe head injuries and died several hours later. This is the 21st fatality reported in calendar year 1996 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1995, there were 16 fatalities reported in these industries. This death is the seventh fatality classified as powered haulage this year. There were also seven powered haulage fatalities during the same period in 1995.

For more information:
Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL96M21]