METAL/NONMETAL MINE FATALITY - On November 29, 2005, a 42-year old repairman with 1 year and 24 weeks mining experience was fatally injured at a copper ore operation. The victim was pressurizing a pontoon with compressed air to locate leaks. The end section ruptured and struck him.
Best Practices
Stop, Look, Analyze, and Manage (SLAM) each task to identify all potential hazards. Practice safe work habits during the entire task. Train miners in safe work procedures before beginning repairs. When compressed air is used, take all necessary precautions to protect persons from injury. Use alternative methods to locate air leaks.
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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. |
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This is the 35th 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 1st fatality classified as Exploding Vessels Under Pressure in 2005. There were no Exploding Vessels Under Pressure 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:
MSHA's Fatal Accident
Investigation Report