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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On April 16, 2003, a 57-year-old oiler with 6 years mining experience was fatally injured at a surface stone mine. The victim was observed standing on a narrow platform installed over the opening of the jaw crusher that was still moving. He was attempting to free a hang up when he apparently contacted the moving crusher components causing multiple fractures to his leg. The victim was hospitalized and died on April 20, 2003.

Photo of Accident Scene

Best Practices

  • Discuss work procedures and identify all hazards associated with the work to be performed along with the methods to properly protect persons.
  • Before working on or near equipment, ensure that the equipment power circuits are locked out/tagged out and that the equipment is blocked against hazardous motion.
  • Require all personnel to be positioned to prevent them from being exposed to any hazards.
  • Ensure the proper equipment is provided and personnel are trained in safe work procedures.
    • 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 eighth fatality reported in calendar year 2003 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2002, there were twelve fatalities reported in these industries. This is the third fatality classified as machinery in 2003. There were three machinery fatalities in the same period in 2002.

    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