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METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On November 4, 2005, a 21-year old laborer with 5 weeks mining experience was fatally injured at a crushed stone operation. The victim was being task trained to operate a haul truck. While backing down a ramp, he lost control of the truck. The truck went through a berm, overturned, and fell to the bench below.

Photo Showing Accident Scene described in narrative above.

Best Practices

  • Task train new miners in all phases of mobile equipment operation at locations designated for training only. Provide classroom training that includes a thorough review of the Operator's Manual before hands-on training of operating mobile equipment.
  • Experienced miners providing task training must be knowledgeable of all safety requirements and proficient in the safe operation of mobile equipment.
  • Conduct pre-operational checks to identify any defects that may affect the safe operation of mobile equipment before placing it into service.
  • Always wear a seat belt when operating mobile 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 32nd fatality reported in calendar year 2005 in the metal and nonmetal mining industries. As of this date in 2004, there were 22 fatalities reported in these industries. This is the 16th fatality classified as Powered Haulage in 2005. There were 7 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.


    For more information:
    Fatal Alert Bulletin Icon MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report