Outside Foreman

Employee was directing an end loader towards himself to hook a strap to it for removal of a dolly that was used to move the hi-wall miner launch. Contributing factors were attempting to hook a 6' strap while standing in front of this moving machine and stationary dolly. Cause was human error/bad judgement by the victim and end loader opr.

1. Mine management failed to assure that the employees followed or incorporated safe work practices that would have prevented miners from being in the red zone area during equipment operation.

   Corrective action: Mine management has trained its employees to ensure that all employees maintain awareness on the operation and movement of mobile equipment and pinch point areas. A copy of the training records was provided to MSHA.

2. Mine management had ineffective task training when removing and installing the highwall miner transportation dolly.

   Corrective action: Mine management has provided additional task training to employees regarding the hazards of working in the vicinity where the transportation dolly is installed and removed. A copy of the training records was provided to MSHA.

3. Mine management failed to assure that employees utilized the available communication devices while working around mobile equipment.

   Corrective action: Mine management prepared a written program and initiated the program to ensure that employees are better trained to recognize persons in hazardous locations and ensure visibility when operating mobile equipment. All employees were trained in the program requirements.

4. Mine management failed to assure that employees utilize the proper equipment when installing or removing the transportation dolly.

   Corrective action: Mine management provided training to employees concerning the proper use of equipment and specific tools when installing or removing the transportation dolly. A record of the training was provided to MSHA.

Findings from MSHA's final investigation report, which supersedes the preliminary narrative above.

Activity at time of incident

Handling Supplies Or Material

Subunit / location

STRIP, QUARY, OPEN PIT

Accident type

Caught in, under or between a moving and a stationary object

Source of injury

SURFACE MINING MACHINES

Nature of injury

CRUSHING

Body part affected

TRUNK, MULTIPLE PARTS

Total mining experience

19 years

Experience at this mine

6 years

Experience in this job

4 years

Degree of injury

FATALITY