METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On June 6, 1997, a truck driver with 25 years of mining experience was killed at a limestone quarry. The victim had dumped his load and was returning to the pit when his truck hit the rock berm along the roadway edge. Although the victim was wearing a seat belt, he suffered severe head injuries by striking the cab structure when the vehicle recoiled from the rock berm. This is the 33rd fatality reported in calendar year 1997 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1996, there were 24 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 14th fatality classified as powered haulage in 1997. There were nine powered haulage fatalities during the same period in 1996. For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL97M33]