Laborer

While lifting a VSI lid a strap broke. The lid struck the victim causing severe head trauma.

On August 21, 2023, at approximately 7:40 p.m., Matthew McCaghren, a 28 year-old laborer with eight days of mining experience, was fatally injured when a crusher lid that was being moved into place struck him. He died from his injuries on August 23, 2023.The accident occurred because the mine operator did not: 1) ensure that the miner stay clear of the suspended load, and 2) use a suitable lifting strap to hoist the lid.

1. The mine operator did not ensure that the miner stayed clear of the suspended load.

   Corrective action: The mine operator developed and implemented a new written procedure requiring all miners to stay clear of suspended loads. The mine operator trained all miners on this procedure.

2. The mine operator did not use a suitable lifting strap to hoist the lid.

   Corrective action: The mine operator developed and implemented a new written procedure for the use of suitable rigging devices for suspended loads. The mine operator put selected miners through training to be certified riggers who will be present during all lifts.

Read the full report (PDF)

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

Activity at time of incident

Machine Maintenance

Subunit / location

STRIP, QUARY, OPEN PIT

Accident type

Struck by falling object

Source of injury

METAL COVERS & GUARDS

Nature of injury

CRUSHING

Body part affected

HEAD, MULTIPLE PARTS

Total mining experience

0 years

Experience at this mine

0 years

Experience in this job

0 years

Degree of injury

FATALITY