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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On October 1, 2003, a 45-year-old superintendent, with 27 years experience, was fatally injured at a surface sand and gravel operation. The victim was operating a crane to lift a hydraulic power pack that was positioned on the bank of a settling pond. The outrigger pads were not fully extended at the time of the lift. When the power station was raised and swung toward the left, the crane tipped over on the ground, pinning the victim inside the cab.

Photo of Accident Scene

Best Practices

  • Consult the equipment operator's manual for proper procedures prior to performing the task.
  • Ensure that personnel are trained to use the load chart.
  • Ensure that all stabilizers are extended and set prior to lifting or moving the load.
  • Ensure that the load is securely rigged prior to lifting or moving it.
    • 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 19th fatality reported in calendar year 2003 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2002, there were 29 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the seventh fatality classified as machinery in 2003. There were 9 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