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COAL MINE FATALITY - On September 19, 1999 a maintenance mechanic, working for an independent contractor, was fatally injured while unloading rail locomotive power assemblies from a flat bed service truck. The victim lost his balance and grabbed one of the power assemblies. The victim and two unstable power assemblies fell to the ground. One of the power assemblies, weighing approximately 625 pounds, struck the victim in the head and inflicted fatal injuries.

MSHA - Fatal Alert Bulletin Picture


BEST PRACTICES
  • Ensure there is adequate space to work.
  • Stabilize heavy machinery before applying rigging.
  • Utilize adequate lifting devices for the type of work to be performed.
  • This is the 26th fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the coal mining industry. As of this date in 1998, there were 21 fatalities. This is the first fatality classified as Handling Material in 1999.

    For more information:
    MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL99C26]