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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On October 3, 2001, a 53-year-old truck driver with 31 years experience was fatally injured at a copper mine when he struck an embankment after losing control of his truck while descending a steep grade.

Photo of Accident Scene


BEST PRACTICES
  • Equipment operators should ensure braking systems are operational and capable of stopping equipment before descending steep roadways.
  • Manufacturers load limits should not be exceeded.
  • Signs warning equipment operators of road hazards should be posted at all approaches.
  • Equipment should be operated in lower gears conducive to safe travel on steep grades.
    • More Information E-mail Suggestion for Accident Prevention Program Submit your own suggestion for a remedy to prevent this type of accident in the future.
    Please specify if you wish your submission to be anonymous or whether your name may be used. Please include the year of the fatality and the fatality number.

    This is the 22nd fatality reported in calendar year 2001 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2000, there were 38 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 12th fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 2001. There were 15 Powered Haulage fatalities in the same period in 2000.

    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:
    Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report