 |
U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978 |
 |
 |
www.msha.gov |  |
[skip navigational links] |
|
 |
| Find IT! in DOL | Compliance Assistance | Other Links |
METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY -On October 23, 1999, a 35-year-old driller (contractor operator) with 4 years mining experience was fatally injured at an underground gold mine. The victim finished drilling long holes and traveled to the lower level to see how they had bottomed out. While inspecting the holes on the level, rock fell from the back and struck him.
Best Practices
Ground conditions should be tested, as well as visually examined, prior to entering areas where recent drilling activity took place.
Ground conditions that create a hazard to persons should be taken down or supported before other work or travel is permitted in the affected area.
This is the 44th fatality reported in calendar year 1999 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 1998, there were 45 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the third fatality classified as Fall of Roof/Back in 1999. There were two Fall of Roof/Back fatalities in the same period in 1998.
For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report
