Section Foreman

While in the process of pulling top chain onto the longwall conveyor panline, the chain became fouled. While examining the area, an apparent failure of the sheave anchor point may have occurred allowing the rope and sheave to be propelled forward. An unknown portion of the assembly apparently struck the injured causing fatal injuries.

Texto original en inglés de la MSHA

1. The mine operator did not ensure that safe work policies and procedures were in place to assure persons are located at a safe distance away from ropes when tension is applied and to assure that persons are trained in these procedures.

   Acción correctiva: The mine operator revised its written policies and procedures to require all persons be located away from an object being pulled at least 1.5 times the distance of the working rope, chain, or sling as assurance to remain clear. The miners were trained regarding this requirement.

2. The mine operator did not ensure that safe work procedures were in place to assure adequate, industry accepted connections were made when using cables or chains to pull heavy loads and to assure that persons are trained in the procedures.

   Acción correctiva: The mine operator developed a corrective action plan to address the adequacy of connection points. The action plan requires the anchor point to be near the centerline of the “pull” activity taking place and utilize a fully enclosed hook with a clevis. All affected miners were trained in the procedures.

Hallazgos del informe final de investigación de la MSHA, que sustituye la narrativa preliminar anterior.

Actividad al momento del incidente

Supervise

Subunidad / ubicación

UNDERGROUND

Ubicación subterránea

FACE

Método de minería

Longwall

Tipo de accidente

Golpeado por... no clasificado en otra parte

Fuente de la lesión

DRUM,PULY,SHEAVE-NT CONVY

Naturaleza de la lesión

FRACTURE,CHIP

Parte del cuerpo afectada

SKULL

Experiencia minera total

42 years

Experiencia en esta mina

17 years

Experiencia en este puesto

17 years

Grado de la lesión

FATALITY