Best Practices
Equipment operators should always insure that they maintain a safe distance between the equipment being operated and the other miners in the area. A warning should be sounded when the equipment operator's visibility is obstructed or when direction of travel is changed. Never position yourself in an area or location where equipment operators cannot readily see you.
This is the 4th fatal accident in calendar year 2002, for the coal mining industry. As of this date in 2001, there were no fatals for the coal mining industry. This is the first fatal accident classified as powered haulage in 2002. At this time in 2001, there were no fatal accidents classified as powered haulage for the coal mining industry.
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:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report