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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On December 20, 2003, a 37-year-old truck driver with 9 months mining experience was fatally injured at a sand and gravel operation. The victim had dumped a load of material and pulled forward approximately 20 feet with the truck bed in the raised position. He climbed onto the truck frame and was caught between the frame and the bed when the bed unexpectedly lowered.

Photo of Accident Scene

Best Practices

  • Follow the safe work procedures in the operator's manual when performing all maintenance or repair.
  • Before working on equipment, block all raised components against hazardous motion and ensure personnel are positioned in a safe location.
  • Train all personnel in safe work procedures before beginning work and use the proper tools and equipment for the job.
    • 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 26th fatality reported in calendar year 2003 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2002, there were 40 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 6th fatality classified as powered haulage in 2003. There were 15 powered haulage 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