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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On June 3, 2002, a 41 year-old maintenance mechanic with 11 years mining experience was fatally injured at a cement operation. The victim and co-workers had cleared a plugged chute and then jogged the kiln feed bucket elevator to make sure it was free. The elevator drive assembly failed and the victim was struck by metal fragments.

Photo of Accident Scene


Best Practices
  • Locate operating controls for pumps, motors and rotating components away from potential trajectory paths.


  • Test all safety systems, including reverse movement protection features, on a regular basis.


  • Establish a schedule for rebuilding or replacement of equipment.
    • 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 17th fatality reported in calendar year 2002 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2001, there were 13 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the fifth fatality classified as Machinery in 2002. There was one Machinery fatality in the same period in 2001.

    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