METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On August 13, 2005, a 56-year old haul truck driver, with 12 days mining experience, was fatally injured at a crushed stone operation. The victim was operating a haul truck from the primary crusher to the pit. As the truck descended the haul road into the pit, it struck the bank, traveled across the road, climbed the berm, and entered a water filled pit.

Best Practices
Ensure that training for new mobile equipment operators includes a thorough review of the Operator's Manual. Exercise caution when approaching grades and operate mobile equipment in the appropriate gear at speeds consistent with roadway conditions and the grade being traveled. Always wear seat belts when operating mobile equipment. Conduct pre-operational checks to identify any defects that may affect the safe operation of equipment before it is placed into service.
This is the 21st fatality reported in calendar year 2005 in Metal and Nonmetal mining. As of this date in 2004, there were 15 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 10th fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 2005. There were 3 Powered Haulage fatalities in the same period in 2004.
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.
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