Outside Foreman

Victim was part of a crew that was welding hdpe pipe using a McElroy fusion machine. While attempting to position pipe in to fusion machine, using an excavator, the pipe struck the victim in the head.

1. Contractor management policies, procedures, and controls were inadequate and failed to ensure that proper training was provided to persons to stay clear of the pipe in the machine.

   Corrective action: Contractor policies, procedures, and controls were implemented for moving, fusing, and guiding pipe. The new procedures require all persons to stay 10 feet away from the swing radius of the machine or be protected by substantial barriers. All persons were instructed regarding these procedures.

2. Contractor policies, procedures, and controls were inadequate and failed to ensure that any defects on machinery that affect safety to be corrected in a timely manner.

   Corrective action: Contractor management established and implemented policies, procedures, and controls that require any defects on machinery that affect safety to be corrected in a timely manner. All persons were instructed regarding these procedures.

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

Struck by falling object

Source of injury

METAL,(Not Elsewhere Classified)(PIPE,WIRE,NAIL)

Nature of injury

MULTIPLE INJURIES

Body part affected

HEAD,NEC

Total mining experience

24 years

Experience at this mine

24 years

Experience in this job

20 years

Degree of injury

FATALITY