Mining Incidents

ARGOS ROBERTA PLANTMetal/Nonmetal

Calera, Shelby County, AL · Active
MSHA Mine ID: 0100629
Fatalities
1
Total incidents
176
Years on record
2000–2026
Latest incident
Jan 2026

Fatalities at this mine

1 recorded
Struck by falling object

Rope access technician was performing inspection of downcomer duct. Around 11:30a.m.the technician became unresponsive by radio. Upon rescue and removal from downcomer duct, technician was alert and responsive with apparent head and leg injuries. Technician was transported to the hospital where they passed away on 9/21/2017.

Reportable incidents

175 on file (excluding fatalities above)

2026 · 1 incident

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

The Supervisor had placed their left hand in the line of fire for the 590 gate pneumatic cylinder. When the cylinder change positions their left hand was pinned while hold a flashlight.

2025 · 2 incidents

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

Employee had finger impacted in a pinch point of a dump hoper.

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

Miner was working inside the Raw Mill on the seal air vertical pipe #3 roller. Employee was disconnecting the pipe and rolled the pipe around out of the way of the work. When they rolled the pipe, the pipe swung around so quickly that it pinned their left index finger between pipe and yoke of the #3 roller. The pipe mashed it at the nail and busted the end of the index finger.

2024 · 3 incidents

Struck against stationary object

On 01/09/2024 EE was cleaning under belt and walked into a power box. On 01/24/2024 EE had discomfort in EE's neck went to Dr. on 01/26/2024 Dr. released EE to full duty and recommended PT, this made it a medical

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

Maintenance mechanic was observing an incline pan conveyor for broken wheel attachments and inadvertently put and on rail. Wheel on pan conveyor ran over middle and pinky finger on left hand.

2023 · 4 incidents

Contact with hot objects or substances

Employee was cutting in the raw mill when a piece of slag came off and burnt through their pants falling into their boot and burning their heel.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EE described what EE thought was a strain slight shoulder pain after cleaning a clogged chute with air lance, after prolonged pain went to doctor.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Picking up a busted bag of cement, miner dropped bag and dust went under their safety glasses and got in left eye.

2022 · 5 incidents

Struck by flying object

The employee was using a sledgehammer on a wedge under the liner at the Raw Mill. An estimated 1.5cm piece of the inner shattered and went into the throat.

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

Truck driver was picking up a load of bagged cement at the shipping department. EE was told several times to remain in EE's truck. EE exited the truck and walked into the side of a fork truck carrying a pallet of cement. EE struck the fork truck behind the load at the front right tire with EE's foot.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Walking in rough terrain to access a settling pond

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

Electrician working on trouble shooting the limit switch on a turning pod sending cement to the Finish Mill 3 cement cooler or FK pump. Electrician's arm was caught by the mechanism that moves the turning pod and fractured the radius bone.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was working at belt 460 with a dingo. When employee had the dingo in reverse, EE bumped into the belt structure which caused a laceration to the tip of the middle finger.

2021 · 5 incidents

Struck against stationary object

Leg slid on some metal grate causing an approx 10CM wound requiring stitches.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was cleaning top of rail car with jackhammer when EE felt a tweak in their back. Finished shift and went home as back was not hurting at that time. Was feeling some tightness, employee was sent for an evaluation and waiting to see doctor.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was positioning himself to clean off a loading spout screen at silo17. The employee tweaked their back when EE was moving between the air slide and the handrail. EE left shift but later reported that their back was tweaked. EE later reported on 10/13/21 that their back was hurting. Then saw saw a doctor.

Fall onto or against objects

Plant electrician stepped into the roller mill on the grinding table. EE slipped and fell landing on left shoulder and leg. EE thought EE might be ok at first but later the next morning EE's shoulder was still hurting. EE went to the doctor the next and was put on restricted duty.

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

Mechanic was working in Raw Mill tapping out bolt holes. While doing this EE felt a pain in the upper groin area. EE did not go to the doctor at first--thought it might go away. On 2/1/21 EE saw a doctor that said EE has a strain in EE's upper groin area. Dr. prescribed antibiotics and told EE to return to work with weight restrictions.

2020 · 3 incidents

Struck by falling object

While removing doors on the pre-heater tower, a door fell on the left, ring finger of the worker causing a laceration that resulted in stitches.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Mobile mechanic was working on D9T bulldozer installing a ripper tooth. EE rolled over and slid out from under bulldozer and felt the knee pop. Iced knee and did not feel EE had to see doctor minor discomfort. The pain did no go away completely and EE went to the doctor and was given some minor restriction on 6/9/20.

Struck by falling object

A maintenance mechanic was changing and idler on a bag conveyor and during the process an idler fell hitting the right arm at the elbow. Employee was sent to the ER and was released with a bruised arm and a 25 pound weight restriction for 4 days.

2019 · 3 incidents

Struck against a moving object

An empty haul truck veered into the side of a loaded haul truck when meeting each other. The trucks were traveling in opposite directions. The left lower corner of the truck cab struck the side of the bed of the oncoming loaded haul truck. The operator of the loaded truck was not injured. The operator of the empty truck complained of a sore knee.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While using a hammer to remove the blade from the shaft of a vent fan motor the employee smashed thumb with the hammer.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Holding star frame in the mill with left hand. Reached out to let chain fall down with right hand and when I pulled the chain I felt something pop and it started burning up and down my arm.

2018 · 2 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A production employee was cleaning buildup from the internal walls of the riser duct when a chunk of coating fell and hit the end of the high pressure water lance. The employee strained the right shoulder as EE maintained control of the water lance.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was moving cement bags from one pallet to another pallet when the employee felt a sudden pain in shoulder.

2017 · 5 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

While checking fire extinguishers at Argos Plant, employee slipped down on a flat, muddy area covered by gravel. Employee's left leg slipped forward and turned out. Knee slipped back and ee fell on right shoulder. EE has a bruised shoulder and a swollen knee.

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

A Production Attendant was cleaning off build up on the tip of the burner pipe when a chunk of material fell on the lance causing it to slip from attendant's hands. In trying to maintain grip of the lance, they felt a pain in the lower back.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A mobile maintenance mechanic was coming down the ladder of a haul truck. As foot contacted the ground, ee right knee buckled.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

An employee was performing work on the plant front-end loader. Employee was pulling on a wrench to loosen a bolt when employee felt a pop and a sharp burning pain in employee's right arm.

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

A Production Attendant was in the process of opening the Tertiary Air Duct elbow door when one of their fingers was caught in a pinch point. The employee sustained a cut to their right ring finger.

2016 · 5 incidents

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Contract tech was preparing equipment to apply a coating inside coal stack. EE was priming supply line & spray head with solvent. Solvent came out of line into the prep bucket, it splashed on chest, hands & feet. EE exited the stack through the access door & dislodged a drop light that was positioned outside the door. Bulb broke & ignited the solvent & burned left hand & shin.

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

The employee was closing the door of a man elevator. As ee was closing the door, left index finger was pinched between the door panels.

Struck by flying object

A maintenance millwright was struck by a metal fragment from a bearing that was being removed from a fan shaft. During the removal process, the pillow bearing broke causing a small piece of metal to project off toward the millwright resulting in a small cut in wrist.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Using box cutter to cut corragated vaccum hose.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Argos disputes that a Lube Tech suffered an occupational injury at the facility and further disputes that ee suffered an occupational injury that was reportable under Part 50.20. Since ee claims ee slipped and fell injuring shoulder and back, and since ee has been temporarily assigned to light duty, Argos submits this 7000-1 form to avoid the potential issuance of a citation.

2015 · 2 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was crossing over a stationary railcar. When he put his foot on the step to get down, his foot slipped off the ladder. He immediately grabbed the closest handle with his left hand and felt a sharp pain in his left arm.

Inhalation of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

An automation technician suffered an adverse reaction to kiln gases that were escaping into an analyzer shelter. The gases were escaping through a small hose leak at the exit end of the kiln inlet analyzer.

2014 · 6 incidents

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

A production employee strained his back while swinging a sledge hammer in effort to unplug a chute. This incident was initially treated as a first aid. The employee later visited a doctor which prescribed medicine for pain and modified duty making the incident reportable.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

An equipment operator had started to fuel the CAT skid steer. When the operator lowered the fuel nozzle into the receiver, the operator experienced an acute pain on the outside of the right shoulder.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was descending the ladder of a front end loader when he misjudged the last step. The employee missed the last step and foot went all the way to the ground unexpectedly. The employee strained his shoulder while trying to hold onto the ladder.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was working at the tabor screen replacing top decks on screen and bent over working and felt a pain in his right knee. This incident was treated as a first aid as no medical treatment nor modified duty was required. Due to continued pain, treatment was administered on May 19 elevating this injury to a medical.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Lifting case of boosters from IME22 Box on powder truck straining lower back.

Fall from scaffolds, walkways, platforms

employee slipped on a scaffold and fell approximately 10 feet landing on a horizontal scaffold pole in the sitting position.

2013 · 7 incidents

Struck by flying object

A Mobile Mechanic was replacing hydraulic hoses on a loader. The hose slipped out of the half flange causing it to drop and swing towards the mechanic striking him above the right eye. This resulted in a small cut above his right eye.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A mobile maintenance employee was performing a maintenance task. He was splitting the track on a D9T3 Dozer to remove the left front Idler for rebuild. As he was removing the bolts from the scissor joint, (4 bolts) the joint came apart causing him to over extend his hamstring.

Struck by flying object

A maintenance mechanic was welding and stopped to chip at a piece of shim plate and when a piece of the metal flew back at him striking him in the arm. The incident was initially treated with first aid measures. The employee recently sought medical treatment due to possible infection.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was working in a bent position holding onto a hydraulic clamp. As he completed the job, he sat the clamp down onto the ground. The employee felt a sharp pain in his lower back as he began to stand to an upright position.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was working in the coal reclaim area where he feels he was bit by a spider.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

While getting off the motor grader, the operator climbed down the left side steps. As he stepped off the bottom step onto the ground, his right foot slipped out from under him, he lost his grip on the handrails, and fell backwards to the ground. He hit his left elbow on the ground.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was undercutting material in a silo when the material came down on him causing him to fall on the floor and hit his right knee.

2012 · 4 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A maintenance millwright foot slipped while dismounting a lull. The maintenance employee reached out with his hand to prevent himself from falling from the lull. Weeks later, he sought treatment for the pain experienced in his shoulder resulting from the incident.

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

Breaking bolts on coupling on the motor of ID fan. Motor's fan locked out. Wind coming through fan turned the shaft which the coupling was attached. Miner tried to stop the shaft from rotation and was pulled over the shaft.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

While moving with cross ties, a maintenance employee fell backwards hurting his lower back.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

A production employee lost his balance while entering the cooler. The employee fell and broke the fall with his knee which suffered a cut over the knee.

2011 · 9 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

A production employee was walking through the plant. He injured his shoulder while catching his fall when he tripped over a curb. This incident was initially treated as a first aid but has been elevated to a medical aid when he recently received medical treatment.

Struck by falling object

Employee was placing a metal plate onto a cutting table. The plate was not placed completely onto the table, so the plate fell and landed on the employee's foot.

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

A production employee lost control of a wheelbarrow which caused his hand to be pinched against a ladder causing a cut on his right hand little finger.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A production employee twisted or sprained his back while clearing buildup in the kiln system.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

An employee was cleaning the oxygen analyzer when dust from above fell getting in his eye.

Struck by flying object

A millwright injured his nose when a handle on the manhead broke off and struck him on the bridge of his nose. The weld holding the handle failed causing it to break.

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

Employee was opening the gate to the yard. A bolt is inserted into a bracket to ensure the gate stays open. As the employee pulled the gate to the bracket, his left index finger was pinched between the gate and the bracket. A cut on the finger required stitches to close the wound. The employee was released for regular duty and returned to work the same shift with no impairment.

Fall from machine

Operator injured his arm when he lost his grip and fell while mounting dozer.

Struck by flying object

A sudden gust of wind caused foreign particles to get in employee's eye.

2010 · 6 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee injured his shoulder while placing pallet toppers on a pallet.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee experience allergic reaction during his shift.

Struck against a moving object

Loader operator contacted a toe of the mining bench that jerked the loader causing him to strain a muscle in his back.

Fall onto or against objects

An employee was removing the holding screw for the shredder teeth. He lost his balance and cut his arm on one of the teeth.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

An employee felt pain in his lower back after he slipped at the bottom of stairway.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was part of a crew changing out bearings and housings on a vibrating screen. Employee lost his footing causing his right leg to twist. This incident was initially treated as a first aid. Employee later received prescription.

2009 · 3 incidents

Over-exertion in lifting objects

An employee strained his back while loosening a high pressure water line connection.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was walking and stepped in small depression in concrete pavement twisting ankle.

Fall from machine

Employee was working on the PC750 excavator. As the employee was climbing onto the equipment he lost his balance and fell backwards.

2008 · 15 incidents

Struck against stationary object

A Production Attendant was tightening a bolt on the petcoke coriolis when the wrench he was using slipped off a struck him in the forehead.

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

The employees hand was pinched between a nitrogen bottle and a handrail.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee lost his footing, fell, and hurt his right shoulder from trying to support his weight.

Contact with heat

Employee was cleaning slag chute that was plugged and got too hot in the process.

Struck against stationary object

Working on housekeeping in the east zeno pit with a shovel when a object on the floor was struck and he jammed his wrist.

Flash burns (welding)

Employee was in the mill while air arcing mill liners. The employee was wearing safety glasses but reflection off of the mill liner was too bright.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was pulling up a bucket filled with material when his helper stopped pulling the rope causing the weight of the bucket to pull the employee across the railing causing a strain on his lower back.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee hurt his back while pulling buckets of rock and material from one level to another. Initial diaganosis: possible back strain; return to work 4/14/08 at full duty. 2nd opinion: 4/22/08: Light duty for seven days and medication.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was pulling flex up to the Preheater when the Safety-T got hung below. He pulled the flex harder and began to run with it when the flex broke below causing him to fall backwards into a pole.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was walking from her car in the parking area when she twisted her right foot causing a sprain to her ankle. Employee refused medical treatment until 3/24/2008 and she was seen by the company doctor.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee struck hand against lift truck while getting off.

Struck against a moving object

A Komatsu 465 Haul Truck loaded with stripping material fell 33' from a haul road. The weather was cool and clear and the road conditions were dry and in good condition. While operating the truck, the driver veered across the haul road about 219' before proceeding through the berm an additional 29' then falling 33' coming to rest upside down.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee twisted knee on loose stone.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was pushing material with dozer when rock struck dozer and he jerked backwards.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee alleges lumbar pain while lifting a box. Note: Incident occurred on January 3, however employee didn't seek medical attention until January 18, 2008.

2007 · 14 incidents

Fall from machine

Employee slipped while stepping off lift truck and twisted ankle.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was lifting a bag of masonry and felt pain in right leg. Note: Injury not reported until 8/20/2007.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee twisted ankle while stepping out of a truck.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee may have developed dermatitis after working at limestone clay stacker area.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee slipped while clearing material and struck guard rail.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was separating green tires when he pulled a muscle in his lower right back.

Struck by flying object

Air hose separated from connection and struck employee in right ear.

Accident type, without injuries

There was a severe thunderstorm around 20:30. Approx 30 min after the storm had passed, two operators on the tire dock noticed smoke coming out of the top of the Keith Bin. EE's notified the control room at 21:15. The fire dept was notifed at 21:38 and arrived at 21:46. MSHA notifed at 22:16 by control room operator.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee strained right shoulder while moving cement bag on line.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee claims that neck and shoulders hurt after shift of operating a loader.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Two employees were being hoisted in a manbasket by a crane (approx 10 ft) when the operator noticed the cable unwinding from the drum. The employees were lowered to the ground by the operator as the cable became fully unwound, thus dropping the block and cable down into the basket. The employees were able to get out of the basket, however, one was struck in the foot by the cable.

Struck against stationary object

EE was coming down stairs @ end of shift, bottom of stairway under construction. 9"" steps at bottom of stairway, had to step up onto a 13"" I-Beam, stepped off I-Beam and on the ground were two pieces of steel conduit. EE stepped on conduit, the conduit rolled and EE twisted left ankle and fell to the ground.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee struck knee on step while dismounting truck.

2006 · 13 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Was under the bulk truck releasing the air valve on the air tank & while getting out from under the truck hurt back.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee developed burn, after cement kiln feed got into boots.

Fall from machine

Employee tripped while exiting a pick-up truck. Employee fell on his left wrist and shoulder. Note: Originally this was not reportable, however, employee saw a physician in February (2007) and then began restricted duty on March 5, 2007.

Struck against stationary object

Employee sprained ankle stepping on a pipe.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee twisted right knee walking down stairs.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee slipped at limestone reclaimer. Accident became reportable in December.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was walking across plant and twisted his left knee after stepping on loose rock. Employee didn't seek medical attention until June 28, 2006.

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

Employee developed chest pains after using a hammer to remove pins above a weighfeeder.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

A bag of cement burst and struck employee in face.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

While employee was cleaning a railcar, an access door was opened releasing dust which came in contact with the employee's eye.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Note: Employee failed to report incident on a timely basis. The company is investigating whether the incident occurred on the mine site. Initial employee report to supervisor was on 3/6/2006. Employee claims to have twisted left foot while stepping off mobile equipment.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was tightening a bolt and felt muscle pull on left side of neck.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee strained back while moving pails of oil.

2005 · 6 incidents

Struck against stationary object

Employee twisted left knee by stepping on a stone. Has continued doing his regular job, but injury will become reportable when he has outpatient surgery 2/20/06.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee got cement dust in right eye while loading a railcar.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was loosening a 1"" pipe fitting with a wrench. While applying pressure he felt a pain in the upper right part of his arm.

Struck by flying object

While handing the equipment from a lower floor up one level, the wind blew a particle into the employee's eye. He was wearing both a full face shield and safety glasses at the time. First aid was given, washing out the eye and removing the contact lens. Subsequently in the days that followed he visited his eye doctor as a precaution and was given prescription eye drops.

Fall from piled material

EE climbed a forklift boom to get up on a 2-high stack of bagged masonry products to prevent a third level stack from spilling. EE was atop the stack without fall-arrest PPE and lost footing, falling and striking head on the backstop of the forklift and subsequently back and shoulder on the forks and floor.

Struck against stationary object

Employee opened hood of vehicle (mule) to actuate a stiff shifter mechanism. His right hand slipped, cutting it on a cotter pin on the linkage.

2004 · 3 incidents

Fall from machine

EMPLOYEE WAS CLIMBING DOWN OUT OF STORAGE TRAILER AND HE STEPPED ON A BLOCK OF WOOD AND LOST HIS FOOTING AND FELL ON HIS RIGHT SHOULDER. EE SHOULD HAVE USED A LADDER AND TIED IT OFF TO THE STORAGE TRAILER TO PREVENT MOVEMENT. THE ON-SITE SAFETY MGR. EXPLAINED TO EMPLOYEE THAT HE SHOULD USED A LADDER.

Struck by falling object

EE WAS STACKING STEEL GIRTS FOR RIGGING TO FLY THEM INTO LOCATION W/ CRANE. THE I-BEAM FELL OVER ONTO THE OTHER GIRTS & STARTED A DOMINO EFFECT WITH THE GIRTS CAUSING ONE OF THE GIRTS TO FALL AND CUT THE END OF HIS FINGER OFF. HIS FINGER TIP WAS PROPERLY STICHED BACK ON BY A PHYSICIAN. HE WILL BE RETURNING TO WORK AUGUST 4, 2004.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

WATER HAD DRAINED ONTO THE FLOOR FROM THE AC IN SILO 20. THE EMPLOYEE SLIPPED IN THE DRAIN WATER AND FELL.

2003 · 10 incidents

Struck against a moving object

EE IS A QUARRY HAUL TRUCK DRIVER. HE WAS BEING LOADED AND A LARGE BOULDER WAS DROPPED INTO HIS TRUCK CAUSING HIM TO BE BOUNCED IN HIS SEAT. HE SAYS HIS LOWER BACK HAS BEEN HURTING BECAUSE OF IT.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE TOLD HIS SUPERVISOR THAT HE HURT HIS RT. ELBOW SOMETIME ON DAY SHIFT A FEW DAYS EARLIER. HE THOUGHT IT WAS AROUND THE 22ND. HE SAID THAT IT WAS HURTING WORSE AND HE NEEDED TO GO THE THE DR. . IT WAS NOT REPORTED UNTIL THE 29TH.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

EMPLOYEE WAS PERFORMING RISER CLEANING IN THE PREHEATER TOWER WITH A CO-WORKER. THE CO-WORKER HAD REQUIRED PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT BUT EE DID NOT WEAR HIS. EE OPENED A PORT AND THEN MANUALLY FIRE D AN AIR CANNON WHICH BLEW HOT DUST ON HIM. HE VIOLATED EVERY SAFETY RULE IN THE JOB FOR TOWER CLEANING.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

EE WAS TRYING TO FORCE A VALVE OPEN AND STRAINED HIS BACK.

Fall from ladders

EE REPORTED THAT HE HAD FALLEN AND LANDED ON HIS BACK. HE SLIPPED WHILE DESCENDING DOWN A LADDER, HE FELL 38"". HE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A BACK STRAIN.

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

EE WAS SENT AROUND THE PLANT TO COLLECT EMPTY O2ACEYTLENE BOTTLES. WHILE LOADING A COMPRESSED GAS BOTTLE ON TO A TRUCK, HE MASHED HIS HAND. HIS HAND WAS BRUISED- HE WAS SENT TO THE DR. FOR X-F RAYS- HIS HAND WAS NOT BROKEN, ONLY BRUISED. THEDOCTOR DID GIVE HIM ANTIBIOTICS JUST IN CASE IT MIGHT GET INFECTED.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

EE TRIED TO FREE A STUCK TIPPER VALVE. HE FIRST TRIED TAPPING ON THE HANDLE WITH A ROD BUT THAT DID NOT WORK. HE THEN GRABBED THE HANDLE AND PULLED UPWARD. HE FELT A PAIN IN HIS BACK. THE EE W AS SENT FOR MEDICAL EVALUATION & TREATMENT. THE DOCTOR DIAGNOSED A BACK STRAIN (THORACIC).

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS USING A KNIFE TO CUT PLASTIC PIPE. WHILE RESTING PLASTIC PIPE ON HIS LEFT LEG. THE KNIFE PENTRATED THE PLASTIC PIPE AND PENTRATING THE EE S CLOTHING THEN PENTRATING INSIDE OF EE LEFT TH IGHT.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

THE EMPLOYEE SAID THAT HE TWISTED HIS BACK WHILE HELPING TO PUT A BALL CHARGE IN #2 BALL MILL. WHEN ASKED IF HE REPORTED THE ACCIDENT, HE SAID THAT HE DID NOT. HE CAME INTO THE SAFETY COODINAT OR'S OFFICE ON JAN 27 AND REPORTED IT AT THAT TIME.

2002 · 11 incidents

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

THE EE WAS EMPTYING THE RECLAIM HOPPER. THE HOPPER OF MATERIAL WAS OVER BALANCED AND KICKED BACK ON THE EE'S FINGER. THE EE WAS CUT AND STITCHED WERE REQUIRED.

Contact with hot objects or substances

EMPLOYEE WAS CUTTING W/A CUTTING TORCH. A PIECE OF HOT SLAG FROM THE METAL OT INTO HIS EAR AND CAUSED A BURN INSIDE OF HIS EAR. HE SAID THAT THIS TYPE OF THING HAPPENED ALL THE TIME AND HE DID NOT THINK ANYTHING ABOUT IT. HE DID NOT REPORT THE ACCIDENT UNTIL 11/22/02 WHEN HIS EAR BEGAN TO HURT HIM WORSE. HE HAS A PERFORATED EAR DRUM.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

DANGEROUS HORSEPLAY - 2 EMPLOYEES FILLED A ZIPLOCK BAG WITH O2-ACETYLENE MIXTURE AND PLACED IT IN THE DOOR OF A BREAK ROOM WHERE 3 EMPLOYEES WERE. RAGS WERE SET ON FIRE & USED TO IGNITE THE BA G. IT CAUSED AN EXPLOSION. ONE EMPLOYEE WAS SENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT.

Caught in, under or between two or more moving objects

EE HAD FINISHED ASSIGNED WORK AND WAS WALKING DOWN BELTLINE TO CHECK ON ANOTHER JOB TO BE DONEAT A LATER DATE. EE REACHED OUT AND GRABBED ROLLER AND GLOVE GOT CAUGHT. ARM WAS PULLED BETWEEN IDLER AND BELT. ARM WAS BROKE AT UPPER SIDE IN BETWEEN ELBOW AND SHOULDER

Fall from ladders

EE WAS DESCENDING DOWN AN UNSECURED LADDER AND FELL APPROX. 15 FEET.

Struck by flying object

MAINTENANCE MECHANIC WAS USING A POWER PACK HYDRAULIC JACK TO REMOVE THE CAP FROM A BEARING. A NUT THAT HE WAS USING AS A SPACER BROKE UNDER PRESSURE & HIT HIM IN THE MOUTH. HIS BOTTOM LIP WAS CUT & REQUIRED 2 SUTURES.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

EE WAS OPENING A VALVE AND CEMENT DUST SPRAYED OUT INTO HIS RT. EYE. EE WAS WEARING SAFETY GLASSES.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EMPLOYEE REPORTED THAT HE SLIPPED ON WET SURFACE WHILE CLEANING PREHEATER TOWER AND STRAINED HIS LOWER BACK.

Struck by flying object

SUPERVISOR TRIED TO USE 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN TO DISLOGE A PLUG IN T AIR DUCT ON PREHEATER TOWER. HE FIRED GUN @ POINT BLANK RANGE @ THE PLUG. THE SLUG SHATTERED & SMALL PIECES OF LEAD HIT HIM ON R IGHT THUMB & FOREARM. HE WAS SENT TO ER FOR TREATMENT. THEY CLEANED & DRESSED THE WOUNDS - THERE WERE NO SUTURES.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE WAS TRYING TO CLEAR A BAG BLOCKAGE ON A BAG CONVEYOR BELT WHEN SHE STRAINED A MUSCLE IN HER LOWER BACK. SHE SAID THAT SHE HAD BENT FORWARD TO STRAIGHTEN THE BAG ON THE BELT. SHE DID NOT HAVE TO LIFT THE BAG ONLY SHIFT IT ON THE BELT. THE BAG WEIGHED 70 LBS.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE AND COWORKER PLACED PIECE OF ANGLE IRON (4X4X3/8""X 20' LONG) ON A FAB TABLE. THE PIECE OF ANGLE SLID OFF THE TABLE AND THE EE STRAINED HIS RIGHT ARM TRYING TO STOP IT. *EE REPORTED INJURY P ROMPTLY BUT WAS NOT INTERESTED IN MEDICAL ATTENTION UNTIL 1-21-02.

2001 · 20 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EMPLOYEE SLIPPED ON SAND WHILE WALKING IN THE FEED END AREA OF THE PLANT. HE REPORTED IT TO THE SUPERVISOR WHO TOOK HIM TO THE FIRST AID ROOM. HE WAS ABLE TO WALK AND FUNCTION NORMALLY. THE NEXT DAY (HIS OFF DAY) HE HAD LEG PAIN AND WENT TOT HE LOCAL E.R. HE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A MILD STRAIN OF RIGHT THIGH AND THE DOCTOR WROTE AN EXCUSE FOR 7 DAYS REST. COMPANY NOTIFIED 1-3-02.

Caught in, under or between two or more moving objects

EE WAS CLOSING ELEVATOR DOOR. JUST AS THE DOORS CAME TOGETHER, THE EE'S FINGER SLIPPED OFF THE HANDHOLD AND WAS PINCHED BETWEEN THE DOORS. HANDHOLD ON THE DOOR IS TOO SMALL. A ROPE HAS BEEN ATTACHED TO PULL THE DOOR SHUT. LACERATION TO LT. INDEX FINGER.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

LAB TECHNICIAN PULLING KILN SAMPLES WHEN CLINKER DUST BLEW BACK IN HER EYES, CAUSING IRRITATION. SHE WAS WEARING SAFETY GLASSES, BUT HAD NO FACE SHIELD.

Struck against stationary object

EMPLOYEE WAS PULLING WIRE INSIDE ELECTRICAL CONTROL ROOM ONE. THE WIRE WAS SPREAD OUT ON THE FLOOR. IT WOULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF A FLOOR CONSOLE. HE WOULD PULL ON IT (THE WIRE) TO RELEASE IT. ONE TIME HE PULLED TOO HARD. WHEN IT LET GO HIS RIGHT HAND HIT THE ELECTRICAL TRAY.

Struck against stationary object

EE WAS INSTALLING A STAINLESS STEEL D8SCONNECT BOX (18"" X 48"") AT THE NORTH END OF CONVEYOR BC 460. HE WAS REMOVING THE SWITCH GEAR TO POSITION AND ATTACH THE BOX TO ITS SUPPORTS. HE REMOVED H IS GLOVES TO GET A BETTER GRIP. WHEN HE PULLED ON THE GEAR, HIS RIGHT HAND SLIPPED AND THE HAND HIT THE BOX CUTTING THE BACK OF THE HAND BELOW THE LITTLE FINGER (7 SUTURES).

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EMPLOYEE SAID THAT HE GOT DUST IN HIS EYE. HE DID NOT REPORT THIS TO HIS SUPERVISOR UNTIL THE NEXT DAY. HIS EYE SHOWED SIGNS OF IRRITATION. HE WAS SENT TO THE DOCTOR WHERE HE WAS DIAGNOSED WIT H CONJUNCTIVITUS AND GIVEN A PRESCRIPTION FOR EYE DROPS.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EMPLOYEE WAS USING A 4' PRY BAR TO MOVE TOE PLATE INTO PLACE TO BE WELDED. THE PRY BAR SLIPPED OFF THE PIECE OF CHANNEL AND STRUCK THE GRATING THE MAN WAS STANDING ON. THE BLOW DISLODGED THE G RATING CAUSING THE MAN TO FALL. THE EMPLOYEE SUSTAINED BRUISING TO HIS LIVER AND SPLEEN, FRACTURES TO BOTH SHOULDER, PELVIS AND TAIL BONE.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EMPLOYEE WAS SUPERVISING THE COMPLETION OF THE RETAINING WALL AT THE PRIMARY CRUSHER. HE WAS AT THE TOP OVERSEEING THE PLACEMENT OF PRECAST CONCRETE PANELS (STACKING) USING AN EXCAVATOR TO SET THEM. THE MACHINE WAS SETTING ONE DOWN, WHEN IT CAME FORWARD TOO FAST CAUSING SLACK IN THE LIME. IT HIT (THE SHACKLE) HIS FOREHEAD, CAUSING THE LACERATION.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

OPERATOR OPENED A PORTHOLE AT THE BOTTOM OF A SILO TO DISLODGE A PLUG AND HOT CEMENT MIX BURNED HIM ON HIS LEG. 1ST & 2ND DEGREE BURNS.

Fall from machine

OPERATOR OPENED A PORTHOLE AND HOT CEMENT MIX CAME OUT AND HIT THE OPERATOR AND KNOCKED HIM OFF OF THE PLATFORM. HE FELL ABOUT 7' AND FRACTURED HIS RIGHT HEEL.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

SUPERVISOR WENT INSIDE THE TRUCK WASH TO TURN WATER TO SPRINKLER SYSTEM OFF, WHEN HE SLIPPED ON WET SURFACE. HE TRIED TO BRACE HIS FALL WITH THE LEFT HAND.

Fall from machine

ACCIDENT HAPPENED WHEN EE CLIMBED UP ON A PALLETIZER ABOUT 3' HIGH AND SLIPPED AND FELL. HE TRIED TO BRACE HIS FALL WITH HIS RIGHT WRIST & FRACTURED IT.

Fall from ladders

EMPLOYEE WAS GRINDING WELDS WITH THE HOPPER FOR THE NEW PRIMARY CRUSHER. HE WAS USING A 12' STEPLADDER. THE LADDER WAS NOT PULLED OUT AND STANDING ON ITS SHOES NOR WAS IT TIED OFF. THE EMPLOYE E HAS BEEN TRAINDED WEEKLY AND DAILY SAFETY MEETINGS. THE EMPLOYEE FELL APPROX. 8', LANDING ON HIS RIGHT SIDE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HOPPER.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

IRONWORKER COMPLAINING OF CRAMPS IN LEG (LEFT) FROM MOVING FROM ONE PIECE OF IRON TO ANOTHER CLUTCHING BEAMS WITH INNER THIGH TIGHTENING BOLT. EE STATES HAS BRUISE ON THIGH. DR. SAID LIMITED L IMBING FOR COUPLE OF DAYS.

Fall onto or against objects

EMPLOYEE WAS PLACING PALLETS ONTO BAG ELEVATOR, HE STEPPED ON THE PALLET ROLLER AND FELL. HE CUT HIS LEG ON THE EDGE OF THE ROLLER, RIGHT LEG . REQUIRE 10 STITCHES, NO LOST TIME.

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

EE STATED HE AND TWO OTHERS WERE MANUALLY PLACING A PART OF A GEAR. THE GEAR SLIPPED WHEN THEY PUT IT DOWN PINCHING HIS RIGHT MIDDLE FINGER.

Struck by falling object

EMPLOYEE WAS ATTEMPTING TO CLEAR A FAULT SIGNAL AND MOVED HER LEFT HAND INTO THE TRAVEL PATH OF THE TABLE WHICH WAS IN THE UP POSITION. THE FAULT WAS RESET AND THE TABLE DROPPED TO THE DOWN PO SITION, TRAPPING HER LEFT FOREARM. THE ARM WAS NOT BROKEN, ONLY BRUISED. THERE WAS A LACERATION THAT DID NOT REQUIRE STITCHES.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

CONST LABORS MOVING METAL FORMS GOT FINGER BETWEEN TWO FORMS PINCHED MIDDLE FINGER.

Struck by falling object

MANITOWOC 300 VICON CRANE SET SECTION OF SHORING ON TOP OF ANOTHER SECTION MAKING IT 2 FRAMES HIGH, SCAFFOLD WAS PINNED TOGETHER AND STRAPS DROPPED TO OUTSIDE OF SHORING AFTER BEING UNHOOKED O N FEEDER END. COWORKER THEN SIGNALLED THE CRANE OPERATOR TO HOIST UP THE STRAPS. WHEN THE OPER. PULLED UP THE HOISTLINE LEVER, THE BOOM RAISED TOO, CAUSING THE STRAPS TO SWING CATCHING THE LE

Fall from scaffolds, walkways, platforms

EE STEPPED ON MUD WHILE WALKING ON CATWALK SLIPPED & FELL 7'8"" HE HIT HIS HEAD ON THE GROUND CAUSING A LACERATION OF ABOUT 11/4"" LONG. THIS REAUIRIED SUTURES EE STEPPED OVER A HAND RAIL TO AN AREA NOT DESIGNED FOR HUMAN TRAFFICE

2000 · 8 incidents

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

EE WAS WORKING AT A CONCRETE SLABPOUR. HE STEPPED INTO CONCRETE DEEPER THAT THE TOP OF HIS BOOTS. CONCRETE ENTERED THE BOOTS. EE WASHED BOOTS OUT, RINSED OFF FEET AND SOCKS AND RETURNED TO POU R. LATE IN THE EVENING OF THE FOLLOWING DAY HE REPORTED HIS FEET WERE IRRITATED AND IT WAS DETERMINED HE SEE DR. EARLY NEXT MORNING(10/27/00). HE HAD IRRITANT CONTACT DERMATITUS ON BOTH FEET.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

HE WAS CUTTING UP SCRAP METAL AND WHILE IN PROCESS, HE CUT A PIECE OF STEEL AND IT FELL BACK AGAINST HIS LEFT ARM AND CAUSED THE ACCIDENT. SMALL CUT 1/4"", SCRATCHED ARM.

Fall down stairs

EMPLOYEE WAS WALKING DOWN STAIRS, MISJUDGED STEPDISTANCE DUE TO LOOKING THROUGH THE BI-FOCAL PART OF HIS GLASSES AND FELL DOWN SEVERAL STEPS. AS A RESULT OF THE FALL, HIS ARM WAS CUT AND REQUI RED SURGERY TO REPAIR.

Fall down stairs

EMPLOYEE WAS WALKING DOWN STEPS, TRIPPED AND FELL, CAUSING POSSIBLY SPRAINED RIGHT SHOULDER.

Struck against a moving object

EE WAS DUMPING SAND ON STOCKPILE EE BACKED UP TOO FAR & WENT OVER THE EDGE OF THE STOCKPILE. THETRK SUBSEQUENTLY TURNED OVER BACKWARS & WENT TO BOTTOM OF THE PILE. THE EE WAS NOT WEARING A SEA T BELT AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT. THE EE HAD ATOTAL OF 3 BROKEN VERTEBRAE IN HIS NECK & BACK

Fall to lower level, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

STEPPED IN A HOLE IN GRATING AT #1 MILL UPPER LEVEL HOLE WAS NOT EASILY VISIBLE DUE TO CONCRETE DUST

Fall from machine

FAILURE TO LOCK OUT BELT #17 DURING WORK ON #16 FEEDER OVER BELT.

Accident type, without injuries

EE (BURNER OPERATOR) WAS PREPARING TO LITE OFF #3 CEMENT KILN. HE OPENED THE BY-PASS VALVE INSTEAD OF THE (BECK-VALVE) REGULATING VALVE AND GAS FILLED THE COOLER AND PART OF THE KILN. EXPLOSIO N OCCURRED AT COOLER BOWING SIDES OF COOLER.