Mining Incidents

United PlantMetal/Nonmetal

Controlled by Cleveland-Cliffs Inc
Forbes, St Louis County, MN · Active
MSHA Mine ID: 2103404
Fatalities
0
Total incidents
200
Years on record
2008–2026
Latest incident
Apr 2026
No fatalities recorded at this mine.

Reportable incidents

200 on file

2026 · 3 incidents

Struck by falling object

EE was cutting piece of steel with 21"" torch out of the stilling well in 4 Tails Hydro. EE cut from the bottom of seam leaving ~6"" gap in middle, then cut seam from top down. The piece of steel shifted, broke off, and fell backwards over top of the rake making contact with EE left arm and face shield resulting in stitches to the nose.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was turning on stairs landing to go up the stairs on Pellet Plant line 1 carriage up towards balling drum. EE felt pain in the right knee. No slip-fall occurred.

Accident type, without injuries

EE entered into Otis freight elevator to get to another floor in the Pellet Plant while performing operational rounds. Elevator stopped operating. While on the phone with the MSHA OneCall, elevator technician arrived onsite & EE was able to exit the elevator. No injury to employee.

2025 · 8 incidents

Fall from machine

EE was exiting a Broderson mobile crane and caught their foot on the bottom edge of the Broderson doorway. The EE tripped and fell approximately 18-20 inches striking their left knee on the ground. The fall caused a minor scrape to their left knee, at a follow up appointment on 1/6/2026 the diagnosis changed to a closed nondisplaced transverse fracture of left patella.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

MMG's were removing the 5B rougher drum in the east side of the Concentrator to repair the tub. They used OH crane to remove drum to set the magnetic rougher drum on ball mill floor cover. The cover became stuck to bottom of drum. MMG jumped on 5ft pry bar placed between cover & drum (@ angle ~4-5"" from ground), when cover released, EE injured right foot.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was using a utility knife to cut zip ties when they slipped and cut their right thumb which required sutures.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was walking outside of the unload pocket when they stepped into a wash-out injuring their lower back.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using brass punch to remove rod screen arm bearing. During this activity a piece of the punch broke off hitting employee's tooth. The employee did not visit a dental office until 9/10/25, and at which time, the tooth was repaired. The office visit summary wasn't received until 9/16/2025

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employees were positioning a roll crusher roller when the load shifted causing the roller to strike the injured employee's right foot resulting in three broken bones.

Struck against a moving object

Employee was pushing a 55 gallon grease drum with a drum cart when the tire struck a bolt in the grating causing the employee to hit their ribs on the cart handle. The employee was evaluated on June 23rd and returned to work without restrictions. The employee was seen again on June 27th and was then placed on restrictions as a result of the injury.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was holding a bolt with the left hand and started to use an impact wrench to loosen the bolt. The bolt head began to spin in the hand resulting in a laceration of the left middle finger requiring sutures.

2024 · 11 incidents

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

Employee was opening a sliding steel pocket door to the complete open position when they pinched their right pinky finger between a latch and the door frame.

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

Employee pinched the right thumb between a pipe support and existing steel structure resulting in a fractured thumb.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

EE was working in a hot, humid and dusty environment. Employee noticed a rash forming. The employee initially thought it was chafing or possibly a heat rash. It was later determined that the employee had touched epoxy paint that had not fully cured. The paint was on tank wall panels that the employee had been working around. Rash only, no other conditions or symptoms.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

EE was working in a hot, humid and dusty environment. Employee noticed a rash forming. The employee initially thought it was chafing or possibly a heat rash. It was later determined that the employee had touched epoxy paint that had not fully cured. The paint was on tank wall panels that the employee had been working around. rash only, no other conditions or symptoms.

Struck by falling object

While discussing the next shift's work with other contractors, a piece of refractory fell from near the top of the stack, striking employee directly on the top of EE's hard hat, knocking EE unconscious. EE regained consciousness and was transported to hospital. EE has a fractured skull and cheek bone.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Injured was walking on uneven floor grating when they tripped and fell to their knees.

Accident type, without injuries

When first starting the unit at 7:15am a cloud of white smoke came out of the engine followed by a cloud of black smoke. Employee noticed the smoke and exited the excavator. The fire burned for 12 minutes before the local fire services arrived and put out the fire. No injuries or other equipment was involved.

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

Employee was mounting haul truck tire on a five piece rim when EE pinched the index and middle finger of right hand between the lock ring and the bead seat of the tire resulting in a break of the bones on the tip of the right middle and index fingers.

Struck by falling object

Employee was in the process of hauling a used troughing roller to a flat bed truck when they dropped the roller on their right hand resulting in a laceration.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was installing insulation on roof. One employee was handing a piece of 4x8 to EE when the wind came up and blew it up and hit EE and knocked EE to the roof.

Accident type, without injuries

When loading trucks on the tailings basin a newly installed by 3rs party hydraulic pump on a PC800 excavator caught on fire. Employee noticed flames in the mirror and exited the excavator. The fire burned for more than 30 minutes before mine and local fire services arrived and put out the fire. No injuries or other equipment involved, the PC800 was a total loss.

2023 · 9 incidents

Contact with hot objects or substances

Employee used a personal lighter to burn off a loose thread from their coveralls when the chemical being used for belt maintenance ignited resulting in a burn to the hand.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee tripped while taking measurements which resulted in falling and cutting the employee's left knee requiring stitches.

Caught in, under or between (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was assisting in positioning some steel channel in a storage location. As the channel was being moved, the employee pinched the left thumb between the two pieces resulting in a hairline fracture.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was lifting a 5' lining bar weighing approximately 20 lbs. when they dislocated their right shoulder. The affected employee has a previous history of right shoulder issues which includes previous dislocations.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE was working near conveyor belt 10 as the vacuum truck operator. The employee was walking back to the vac truck and tripped on a rock causing EE to fall and land on EE's shoulder. EE dislocate EE's right shoulder

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was using a 1/2"" drive torque wrench and while in the process of torqueing bolts and felt discomfort in the right elbow. Employee was given a sling at the ER visit.

Fall onto or against objects

A Maviro employee was performing HPWB operations at the United Taconite mine, when a 10K PSI dump valve failed to properly dump water and cause the injured employee to lose their balance and hit the back right side of their head on the hand rail behind them.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Mechanic was diagnosed with tenosynovitis of the wrist flexor.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was cutting a rubber hose with a battery-powered, handheld cutoff tool. The wheel caught and kicked the tool back causing the cutoff wheel to cut through the employee's leather work glove and into their left wrist. Resulting injury required 7 sutures.

2022 · 8 incidents

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

While placing a scaffolding section in 4c crusher base, employee pinched their right pinky finger between the scaffolding section and some rocks at the bottom of the base. Resulting laceration required 2 sutures.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Operator misstepped off of last rung while descending from 8 yard loader. Did not fall due to having 3 points of contact but abrupt motion caused acute lower back pain.

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

Mechanic was installing adjustment ring for crusher and trying to position an inner spring bolt that was stuck/hung up. Bolt released and dropped downward, pinching the employee's right hand pinky finger.

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

Welder was releasing a plate magnet when their ring finger was caught in a pinch point between the handle and body of the magnet, resulting in an open non-displaced fracture of the distal phalanx.

Over-exertion in wielding or throwing objects

Operator was diagnosed and treated for rotator cuff repair. Previously reported discomfort after shoveling material next to a conveyor belt.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Electrician was diagnosed with trigger thumb of the right hand. No specific incident, developed over time.

Contact with hot objects or substances

Employee was working near the pellet furnace double-dump dust valves when an unexpected hot dust cloud contacted employee in the face.

Fall from ladders

Employee's foot slipped on last rung while descending ladder. Their foot landed awkwardly; they twisted their ankle resulting in a sprain.

2021 · 11 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee tripped on uneven concrete and sprained their right ankle.

Accident type, without injuries

Rod Screen Crusher 1F caught fire. Cause was the non-drive side bearing failed and overheated. Ignited lube lines and rubber screen panels.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Operator was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, same area of multiple previous hernias. Employee felt pain when they attempted to open the Kiln Preheat door.

Accident type, without injuries

Pellet Plant grate/kiln stack area of the roof caught on fire. Investigation revealed a small piece of refractory had been released onto the roof when the stack cap was opened earlier in the day.

Unclassified, insufficient data

Employee felt discomfort in their back and was diagnosed with lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Accident type, without injuries

At 8:40 AM (2) employees radioed that they were stuck in the man elevator in the Pellet Plant. Electricians cycled power and were able to get the elevator moving again. 9:13 AM both employees were out of the elevator.

Struck by falling object

EE was assisting a fork truck operator unloading steel plates from a trailer deck. The fork truck operator inadvertently tipped the plate causing it to fall off the trailer deck. The plate struck the EE in the foot resulting in a broken tarsal.

Accident type, without injuries

Two employees were unable to exit the pellet plant man elevator for a period of approximately 1 hour due to a blown control circuit fuse.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Coal attendant did not report to work due to irritation/inflammation of lower back. Attributed to repetitive movement which may have resulted from work at a mine.

Accident type, without injuries

WHILE CUTTING PARTS ON WELD SHOP PLASMA TABLE, EMPLOYEE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM DUST COLLECTOR EXHAUST DUCT. FIRE WAS IN THE COLLECTOR AND WAS EXTINGUISHED. NO INJURIES OR DAMAGE OUTSIDE OF COLLECTOR HOUSING.

Struck against stationary object

Low headroom in ductwork. Existing piece of steel angle on roof of duct. EE was on hands and knees cleaning work area when hard hat fell off. EE stood up to put hard hat back on and struck the top of head on a existing piece of small angle that was still on the roof of the ductwork. EE received 6 staples in scalp.

2020 · 8 incidents

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

Section of 6"" rubber lined pipe shifted during installation crushing mechanics foot into another pipe. Mechanic suffered a fractured tibia.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was performing Iron analysis procedure. While dispensing acid, a hairline crack developed in the bottle top dispenser and released a fine mist from the side of the dispenser. Vapors caused irritation to the employee's right eye and was later diagnosed as chemical keratitis.

Struck by flying object

Operator was hosing material off of a grate side plate and got spray-back in their eyes. Employee received antibiotic drops for their eye.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee walking outside rolled their ankle resulting in closed fracture of right fibula.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee strained left thumb when grabbing handrail while descending stairs. Received medical brace to immobilize thumb.

Struck by falling object

Crew was hydroblasting sludge off the walls at Utac Pellet Plant Line 2 Scrubber Rod Manifolds. A large piece of sludge came loose and landed on the employee's leg.

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

While building a plywood form, a worker was drilling a hole from the bottom and the bit came in contact with the workers hand above.

Struck against stationary object

EE struck hand against guard causing laceration to right ring finger requiring sutures.

2019 · 13 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee experienced a torn tendon in their shoulder due to diagnosed severe tendinosis of the supraspinatus tendon and of the bicep.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee was setting up for a job cleaning out the caustic soda tank when employee walked through what employee thought was water. Upon further investigation, it was the caustic soda that was being drained from the tank. Employee sustained chemical burns to the top of both feet.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Electrician cut the palm of their hand with a utility knife when it slipped after cutting a plastic zip tie.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Mechanic chipped their front tooth when the tool they were using to change a screen panel slipped and hit them in the mouth.

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

EE was plugging off a water hopper on a dust collector when EE's grip on the drain lever slipped resulting in their right thumb being pinched. The pinch required medical treatment.

Fall from scaffolds, walkways, platforms

EE was standing on temporary 5'x5' grate platform on feed end of L5 Ball Mill. As EE leaned into the mill to apply sealant to joints the grating slipped off the angle iron it was resting on, sliding out from under EE. The EE fell to the level below approximately 7 feet resulting in a closed fracture to left ankle.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Electrician reported soreness in right knee on August 9 with no associated incident or work related event. Soreness appears to be idiopathic in nature. Due to the knee soreness continuing to bother them, the employee was prescribed physical therapy on October 10.

Accident type, without injuries

Line 2 coal mill caught on fire while operating. Emergency services were called, the mill was isolated and the fire was put out. No injuries occurred during this incident.

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

Setting up a hoist to lift gear cover off an engine. Injured employee was giving commands to mine mechanic who was running the hoist remote. Injured employee had said ""hold on"" but the mine mechanic continued to lift, causing tension on the chain and pinning EE's finger against a water pipe. The injured employee suffered a pinching laceration that required 12 stitches.

Struck by falling object

Employee was opening a sliding man door when the door came off the door rollers and scraped the employees left shin when it landed on the ground. One suture was required.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee was lifting the lid on a gangbox and felt pain to right shoulder. No medical treatment was provided at the time of the incident. Treatment and diagnostics were done weeks later.

Struck by flying object

Injured EE was using a 6"" powered hand grinder to remove the old bolt flange on the West #3 scrubber inlet. While cutting off flange the blade pinched in the cut resulting in the grinder kicking back and striking the EE in the left neck/collarbone area causing a laceration.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

While opening the hood on a rental compressor to fuel it the ee felt pain in left arm. Inspection of compressor hood shows it to be in good working order. EE was lifting it up normal without any strain while lifting the hood. EE diagnosed with bicep tendinitis.

2018 · 13 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Maintenance Mechanic noticed back was sore at the end of the shift. There was no instantaneous event the EE has a history of back issues. On 12/20/18 the EE went to the Dr. and was diagnosed with foot drop and prescribed physical therapy.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Replacing overhead LED high bay lighting fixtures, the ee was lifting the light fixture when they felt soreness in their lower back. EE was sent to medical provider and medial treatment was provided.

Struck by flying object

EE was unplugging a dust valve when a slug of dust released. The EE got dust into their eyes. EE was brought to a medical provider and antibiotic drops were prescribed.

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

EE was removing steel rail lining wall of chute. As EE was attempting to break loose a previously cut section of rail it broke free and fell, pinching the tip of EE's right thumb between it and the rail below, resulting in a closed fracture to the distal end of EE's thumb.

Struck against a moving object

EE became distracted when their gloves fell off the seat of the pickup while driving. EE swerved off the road while retrieving the gloves from the cab floor hitting two used tails basin pipes. EE suffered a laceration to their knee.

Struck against stationary object

EE was removing 14""x2"" ball mill flange bolts by cutting heads off the bolt and using another bolt and sledge hammer to drive the bolt out. The bolts weigh approx. 15#. The EE was holding the bolt and the momentum when it released drove hand into an adjacent 3/8"" plug bolt protruding from the mill shell resulting in 3 stitch laceration to top left middle finger.

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

EE thumbs were pinched while changing grate castings, the EE reported the incident but did not want medical attention. On 8/6/18 the EE sought medical attention due to continued pain and was diagnosed with a fracture.

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

EE was removing an old (60lb) W4 I-Beam using a cutting torch. The beam did not come free when ends were cut. EE shook beam resulting in the beam coming loose and pinching the left thumb between the I-Beam and a steel angle 12 inches below the beam. This resulted in a fracture to the left thumb.

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

EE was placing the plug a distributor for a filter and got finger pinched between the plug t-handle and the lip of the tank. Sutures were required

Accident type, without injuries

Elevator stopped working with a person inside

Struck by falling object

EE lifted ee face shield after grinding to talk to ee supervisor and felt a particle enter into ee eye. EE was seen at the clinic and prescribed antibiotic drops.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was installing conveyor belt idlers with three other mechanics, during the installing the EE began to feel heat in the stomach area. Upon completion of the work RR felt discomfort. EE was transported to clinic and diagnosed with a umbilical hernia.

Fall to lower level, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The employee was operating the Brokk machine into the kiln. The ramp was pushed off the discharge lip of the kiln causing the employee to fall into the cooler area below. The employee sustained fractures to the pelvis, vertebra, and ribs. As well as internal damage to the rectal area.

2017 · 15 incidents

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Ee was squatting down inspecting a self aligning return roller assembly, as EE squatted EE felt something in EE's right knee slip. EE could not put any weight on it. EE was transported to the E.R. and taken off work for knee pain. This is a idiopathic incident, no event other than squatting.

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

The EE and partner were fitting a new discharge pipe. While EE and partner were lifting the section of 2 - 1/2 inch pipe into place it became caught on another pipe so they pulled on it and it came free pinching a little finger on the left hand between the guard on the pump and the new line. One suture was required.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

The EE was cleaning the upper walkway in the fine crusher with a water hose. EE stepped backwards and left foot slipped on the wet transition surface causing ee to fall backwards and roll right ankle.

Struck against stationary object

EE was working on switching a slurry pump. When the pump started the discharge line immediately blew apart at the 10 inch roller grip clamp spraying three of the employees standing off to the side of the pump. The EE was trying to get out of the spray and made contact with a pipe manifold located three to four feet away. This resulted in a laceration above right eye.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was using a 2' sleever bar to align bolt holes. Sleever bar slipped out of bolt hole causing employee to fall to right. Employee struck guarding latch below the employee with left arm pit at the same time employee's fall protection caught. Employee sustained a cut to left arm pit needing stitches.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The EE has been a miner for 40 years and has been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and has had surgery.

Contact with hot objects or substances

The injured employee was arc airing a crusher mantle liner when a hot piece of slag contacted the employee's coveralls, burned through and caused a small on left ankle. It was treated as a first aid injury. Weeks later, it became infected and became a lost time on 8/31.

Struck by flying object

Employee was using a 6"" die grinder with a burr bit to clean welds as the employee progressed with welding. Employee got a small piece of metal in right eye.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE was walking in the Pellet Plant. EE tripped on a chain jack, marked with barricade tape, that was attached to the floor. EE fell and struck right knee. The ee was transported to the Clinic for evaluation and received sutures.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A piece of channel iron got caught on expanded metal. The worker used a Johnson bar to pry the channel free. The channel sprung up and struck arm causing a laceration.

Struck against stationary object

The ee was walking when their foot caught on a piece of grating. This caused pain in their right foot. On 3/17/17 the EE was seen by a Physician and diagnosed with a sprain foot and placed on restrictions.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The EE was doing demolition maintenance work and felt pain in shoulder/bicep and limited range of motion at the end of shift. EE was seen by a physician and was diagnosed with shoulder/bicep pain and placed on restrictions. It appears to potentially be a tendonitis/bursitis type issue due to its non-traumatic nature. MRI has been scheduled to determine cause.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While attempting to remove a bolt, the EE was operating 18 volt cordless drill and pressed the trigger with the intent of loosening the bolt but it was set for tightening instead. This movement jerked the wrist causing pain. On 2/11/17 EE sought medical attention and was diagnosed with a wrist fracture.

Struck by flying object

While working in the pellet plant the EE got dust in eye and later had eye flushed and was prescribed antibiotic drops.

Struck against stationary object

EE was installing a 3/8"" tubing adaptor with a 3/4"" combo wrench in a tight awkward position. As EE was torquing the adaptor into place the wrench slipped & EE's hand hit the orifice plate handle on the orifice plate on the primary air.

2016 · 11 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE stepped through a hole (Approx. 12""x18"") in the floor and struck a knee. The several days later the EE went to the Dr. and was taken off work for a knee strain injury.

Fall onto or against objects

The EE was operating an overhead crane and installing cone crusher steel. The employee lost their balance and fell down (on the same level) onto the crusher base cable swivel. The EE suffered fractured ribs as a result of the fall.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Injured EE was tying a piece of rebar back into place after moving it to clear a concrete wall form. As EE was pulling the tie wire tight, the pliers slipped free, striking EE in the upper right side of mouth/face. This resulted in the upper, second tooth to the right from center, tooth being chipped and loosened.

Struck by flying object

The EE was doing rounds and while inspecting felt material (dirt/dust) go into right eye. EE was sent in to the clinic and had eye flushed and prescribed antibiotic drops.

Struck against stationary object

While walking up a flight of stairs the EE struck head on a beam jamming neck. On 11/11/16 we were informed that EE was receiving chiropractic treatments for the injury.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was cleaning tools in EE's locker located in the Pellet Plant Lube Room and some dust/dirt/debris landed in EE's eye. Employee was wearing safety glasses.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee hearing test revealed over a 25 db hearing loss with age adjustment.

(Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee hearing test revealed over a 25 db hearing loss with age adjustment.

Fall onto or against objects

Employee was working on same elevation lost balance when turning to the left and fell forward on same level. Employee struck left shin on grating step that was existing and cut shin requiring stitches.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

The EE was lifting a chute liner plate when EE felt a pain in EE's abdomen. A Physician later diagnosed EE with a hernia.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While removing a piece of wall plate from the cooler, the employee was guiding it down by hand. As the plate was coming down, the bottom V anchor caught on the cooler panel below the sheeting. This caused the weight of the piece to load on the V anchor. The anchor sprung the sheeting forward, striking the employee on the wrist area causing a laceration.

2015 · 5 incidents

Struck by falling object

While installing mini power transformer, the support for it failed during install and unit tipped and fell. The EE instinctively attempted to catch the falling transformer. The employee began feeling pain in his arm and knee and was sent to the medical provider.

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

While placing the grating on the a welding table in the shop, the employees left hand middle finger became pinched between the welding table and the grating. This caused a laceration to the finger. First responders were called and the employee was transported to the E.R. via ambulance.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EMPLOYEE WAS ASSISTING HIS PARTNER WITH A 5' BAR WHILE TAKING THE NUT OFF THE MANTLE IN THE CRUSHER REPAIR BAY, WHEN THE LINER BAR SLIPPED OUT OF THE NUT HOLE AND THE EMPLOYEE LANDED ON THE CONCRETE FLOOR ON HIS LEFT HIP.

Struck against stationary object

Employee was checking fans in the pellet plant, he was walking through an area that was recently been cleaned and slipped on several pellets on floor,

Struck against a moving object

On 10/17/15 employees reported soreness from driving on rough roads but did not want to seek medical attention. On 3-26-15 the employee went to a physician and was placed on restrictions for a lumbar strain.

2014 · 10 incidents

Struck by falling object

While welding had debris fall onto his face when he lifted up his welding helmet. The material was flushed from his eyes but he had continued irritation. He was transported to a medical provider and was diagnosed with occupational conjunctivitis.

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

Injured employee was working with partner installing Classifier flights. She was using a 3/8"" allen wrench to hold bolt head while partner used a 3/4"" impact gun to tighten nut. The nut seized causing the allen wrench to rotate resulting in the employees index finger being pinched between the wrench and the flight shoe. The distal 3/4"" of the right index finger was crushed.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee with forty years of mining experienced diagnosed with bi-Carpel Tunnel Syndrome.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A Maintenance employee was installing a pipe hanger along a conveyor when the employee felt a foreign body enter his left eye. EE was sent to a medical provider where they removed the foreign body and applied antibiotic drops.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee had a metal frame liner dislodge from the rigging and contact the top of his right foot causing a contusion.

Accident type, without injuries

Pellet Plant man elevator was recently updated to the new code. We are having an occasional problem related to the upgrade to the electrical systems. Problem was fixed and the elevator has worked good since after outside contractor repaired the problem.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EE tripped and fell on floor grating with a 3/8 inch raise in it. First responder dressed wound and employee returned to work. on 6/10 employee returned to the Dr. due to continued pain and the Dr. aspirated the wound.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While loosening a nut the EE felt a small pull in his stomach area. The employee was sent to a medical facility and was diagnosed with a hiatal hernia.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

The EE was operating hydraulic valves for the cobbers in the concentrator when they accidentally stepped on a piece of plywood that was covering a hole. The plywood moved and the EE fell down into the hole with their leg. The incident was a report only at the time but has now become reportable due to restrictions that were ordered by a Physician on 3/13.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Working to clear snow, employee needed to move a roller, then he tripped over partially buried wood pallet falling on his left shoulder. This was a report only incident at the time. On 7/8/2014 the EE was prescribed Physical Therapy.

2013 · 16 incidents

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE with 38 years of mining experience as a maintenance mechanic and plumber was diagnosed with Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome on 6/25/2014 severe enough to require surgery which is scheduled July 8th.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee had a re-occurrence of bursitis in his knee from a incident that occurred on 5/30/13.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

AN EMPLOYEE REAGRAVATED HIS BACK WHEN PULLING A WELDING CART.

Fall down stairs

Employee was descending down a stairway and missteped, lost his balance which caused him to fall on the landing. He injured his right knee. Employee was taken to the Medical facility where he was diagnosed with a knee strain and taken off work.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

* Late report by EE. EE initially stated that did not know time & date of injury it was determined non-work related. However after investigation & request of medical from the treating Dr which was received on 12/12/13 the EE reported to the Dr that on 11\15\2013 at 5:00 p.m. he pulled on a metal step and felt discomfort in his groin. He was diagnosed with an inguinal hernia.

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

Employee was using a 4-1/2 inch electric grinder while fabricating handrails, he set the grinder on the table before the wheel had stopped spinning, and the sanding flap wheel caught his glove and sucked it into the grinder between the wheel and the guard. The incident became reportable on 11/6/13 when the employee did not report for his scheduled shift.

Accident type, without injuries

United Taconite plant lost power due to a polarity issue in a transformer. As a result our overhead crane operator was stranded in the crane until power was restored. The crane is installed with an emergency evacuation descending unit but it was determined that this situation did not require him to use it.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

The EE woke up on the morning of 10/23/13 with sore left shoulder. He believes that occurred from installing a 7.5 h.p. motor the day before, this was a report only incident. On 10/25/13 he was still feeling soreness so we sent him in to a medical provider and he was diagnosed with a left pectoral muscle strain and prescribed physical therapy.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

EE was inspecting a conveyor. While working he bumped into a bar that struck a beam causing dust to fall down. Some of which got into employees eye. He was taken to the local medical facility where he was diagnosed with a scratched cornea and prescribed antibiotic drops.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

A maintenance mechanic with over thirty years of experience was diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The EE was tightening a large bolt when he felt a pain in his calf. He was brought to medical services and was diagnosed with a calf strain.

Struck against stationary object

Maintenance Mechanic cut his knuckle while removing a seal on a pump shaft. The cut required three sutures.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

THE EMPLOYEE WAS WALKING OUTSIDE AND SLIPPED ON AN ICY PATCH AND FELL TO THE GROUND. THE EMPLOYEE USED HIS LEFT ARM TO BREAK THE FALL. THE EMPLOYEE FELL PAIN IN HIS LEFT SHOULDER. Surgery was required to repair a muscle tear in his shoulder. This surgery occurred on 4/22/2013.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee attributed the injury (lumbar strain) to lifting/twisting a 4'x6' plywood cover. Employee reported the incident days later after feeling pain.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was filling the ball bucket with grinding balls when a piece of debris/dirt entered his right eye. Employee was wearing all required ppe including safety glasses.

Contact with hot objects or substances

Mechanic was arc airing a crusher mantle when a piece of hot slag caught in his lower right pant leg starting his coveralls on fire. Resulting in a second degree burn to his lower right calf just above the boot.

2012 · 9 incidents

Flash burns (electric)

Employee suffered a ""welders flash"" burn to his eyes when a new 480 volt electric heater that he had installed went to ground when it was energized. The heated was later inspected and a defect from the manufacturer was identified as the cause. Antibiotic drops were prescribed.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee suffered a laceration which required sutures when handling waste sheet metal

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was using 6"" grinder to clean up sharp edge when a small piece of debris got behind his safety glasses and face shield.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

The employee was shoveling when he felt a pull in his groin, he was diagnosed with a hernia and required surgery.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

The employee was moving a two wheeled cart when he felt a pull in his groin, he was diagnosed with a hernia and required surgery.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was using a razor knife to open 5 gallon cans of grout. The knife slipped, cut his forearm resulting in stitches.

Struck by falling object

The employee was dismantling a cooler thrust wheel in the repair bay. When she lifted it off the work table with a electric hoist the 50 lb metal tire fell off the shaft, striking the table then landing on her foot. X-ray revealed a fractured metatarsal.

Struck by falling object

Injured was removing section of cast liner in side rod mill. As he was striking the bottom of the casting to break it loose an approx 12""x18""x5"" piece of the top of the liner broke off and fell approx 4 feet striking the employee on the top of his left foot. The piece weighed an estimated 75 lbs. Employee was wearing work boots with metatarsal protection.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was trying to install a wedge with a hammer that was holding a furnace hood door when he missed and struck his left middle finger. The employee was sent to the medical facility where he received three sutures.

2011 · 15 incidents

Accident type, without injuries

THE EMPLOYEE WAS USING THE FREIGHT ELEVATOR IN THE PELLET PLANT WHEN THE DOORS OPENED PART WAY. THE EMPLOYEE WAS IN THE ELEVATOR FOR AROUND AN HOUR PRIOR TO SOMEONE ASSISTING HIM TO GET OUT.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Injured was walking across parking lot to plant entrance during a snow storm and slipped on accumulating snow/ice in the area resulting in a fall to the ground. EE foot caught traction resulting in a jarring moment to his lower leg above the ankle. EE continued to work out his shift and sought treatment after hours when pain did not subside.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee walking in the pellet plant stepped incorrectly and rolled his ankle. He was sent to the emergency room and diagnosed with a sprain and given an ankle brace.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee stepped down into a sump when the piece of angle iron that he placed his foot on gave way causing him to slip injuring his shoulder. The employee continued to work but was later diagnosed with a muscle tear that required surgery. Surgery took place 1-23-12.

Accident type, without injuries

Pellet plant evavator broke down trapping three mechanics in it.

Struck by falling object

While employee was setting cap on crusher, he was lining up the bolts on the plate. While he was holding a nut for placement, the bolt fell and crushed the pinky finger on his right hand. Finger was lacerated and seven (7) stitches were administered.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Ironworker was pulling cooler panel into place when weld broke on loop attached to cooler panel. Loop struck worker on lip causing a cut which required 1 stitch. Worker went to clinic, had stitch installed and returned to work.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

The injured employee was cutting up cardboard boxes when he cut himself in the thumb with a utility knife, he received 7 sutures.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EE bent down to pick up a 4X4 piece of wood and felt a pain in his lower back.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee has been diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome and is having surgery.

Struck by flying object

While grinding during welding classroom training, employee felt something in his eye, he was sent to the clinic where they removed the particle and prescribed antibiotic drops.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Two employees working to remove demister door on east side of line 2 grate return level using pry bar. The pry bar slipped from employee's hand hitting other employee in the mouth resulting in laceration requiring 4 stitches.

Accident type, without injuries

Pellet plant freight elevator was stuck between floors with a man inside it. The elevator was repaired and the man was safely vacated the elevator with no injuries.

Accident type, without injuries

Employees were cutting in our 3c crusher when a piece of slag dropped down and started some rubber on fire. The fire was put out with water hoses and no injuries occurred as a result of the incident. ***This is the 2nd time that I have reported this. The 1st time was online on Feb 2nd but it was apparently lost in the system.

Accident type, without injuries

Employee was in Elevator when the elevator stopped working, maintenance was called and elevator was repaired and the employee was not injured.

2010 · 12 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee tripped on ladder base and fell landing on right knee cap. Initially employee received medical only treatment but on 1/20/11 the employee received medical treatment and restrictions for a short period of time.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

steer cart out of elevator onto drive floor of #1 conveyor. Cart had a motor for #1 conveyor weights 6180 lbs wheels of cart grabbed door channel on elevator throwing employee to floor. Employee sought medical care on 10/20 return to work normal activites. Subsequent doctor visit on 10/25 states employee off work beginning 10/24/10.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was lifting a ladder as he turned with the ladder that he was carrying he felt a pop in his back. Received notification on 10/4 that he had attended a clinic appointment and had been authorized off work by doctor.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee states lifting a splitter pan to dump onto the quick BT screen when the pan started to slip from her hands, in quickly catching the pan from dropping, she states she felt a strain in right shoulder. Employee did not report any incident until 8/28 nor did she seek any medical treatment until 9/2. She has temporary restrictions for two weeks.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was pushing a wheel ladder on grating to opened a valve manually. He tried to move the ladder out of the way the next day, August 24, 2010, and felt a pop in his shoulder. First aid treatment rendered until recently when physical therapy was requested and approved on Jan. 4 2011.

Struck by flying object

Employee placed hatch cover over center drop box door line 2 grate, water splashed out around door, deflected off grate structure, entered around safety glasses into right eye. prescription meds dispensed.

Bodily reaction, (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee stated he twisted upper back while exiting under #2 conveyor after changing return rollers. He turned to exit from under the conveyor and twisted, causing back pain. Intial clinc treatment was fist aid only. Received notes from clinic on 6/12 stating employee will be attending physical theraphy.

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

Cut finger, required 5 stitches, when attempting to remove guard from #10 conveyor low speed coupling. As she was lifting the guard, her finger was pinched between the guard and motor, resulting in the laceration.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was returning with a filter sample off the no. 4 conveyor when he lost his balance fell on his left hand and face. His left hand started to swell and he complained of it being sore. He was sent to the hospital to have the injury checked. Diagnosed as a left hand metacarpal fracture, splinted and restricted given.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee complained he felt repetitive motion injury during the daily course of electrical work at the plant. On 3/10/10 the employee was diagnosed with carpal tunnel and left neural neuropathy.

Absorption of radiations, caustics, toxic and noxious substances

Employee took an 8 oz plastic bottle of diesel fuel treatment from flammable storage cabinet. He was turning the bottle around to read the directions when it burst splashing the contents in his face and chest. He was wearing safety glasses. He flushed out eyes with water then was transported to VRMC.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was attempting to close a seal water line but the valve was stuck. While attempting to close it, he felt a pop and pain in his wrist while trying to close it. He was sent to the clinic. Diagnosis was a left wrist fracture avulsion.

2009 · 16 incidents

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

In the process of grouting new base for a replacement pump. He was mixing grout in small 5 gal portable mixer. Finished mixing up a batch, shut off mixer tried to remove pail from mixer but pail was stuck. While trying to free pail mixer started up: his hand spun round and round causing a sprain and possible fracture. Fracture ruled out at a later date. The sprain required a splint

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was loosening case mount bolts from the frame to the case on 3C tails pump working in a bent over position he felt a strain in lower back. He was using a 3/4 inch ratchet with a 2 1/4 inch socket to loosen the bolts. Did not seek medical treatment (physicial therapy prescribed) until 11/16/09. Did not notify United Taconite of medical treatment until 11/17/09.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Employee was pulling a water hose across the grade floor of the fines crusher, ""F side"" just on the south side of 9F conveyor, under the #4 rod screen area, when the collar of the nozzle suddenly got stuck in a section of the floor. Causing discomfort to the employee's back. Employee has been seen by a Chiropractor.

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

Using air impact wrench to tighten bolts on case of 3b tailings pump. Impact wrench slipped out of employee's hand, due to ""never sieze"" on his gloves. Smashed his right hand pinky finger between handle of impact wrench and pump pedestal. Employee reported on 9/8/09 that he sought treatment at clinic. Received diagnosis on 9/9/09 statinig he had fractured the pinky finger.

Struck by falling object

Mechanic was pressure washing cooler carrying wheels in steam room. The wheel had been cleaned, standing upright. The employee turned around to clean the next wheel. The wheel behind him began to roll towards him. His partner yelled a warning but the employee couldn't hear due to noise. The wheel tipped over, fell, pinned employee's right leg/ankle to the pallet and floor.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

employee was lifting cover off of 3c slide chute heard a pop in the right shoulder. He determined he should visit clinic but did not notify company until 8/5/09 of his intentions.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee opened crusher up a notch because it was set too tight, after which he moved the swing rams that open and tighten the crusher setting back to its normal position. While moving one of the swing rams he felt a pain in his low back. He did not treat nor was an incident report entered into the system until 7/15/09 when he called to state he wanted to seek treatment.

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

HIT IN RIBS WITH PIPE WHILE PUSHING COOLER DUMP ARM ON

Struck by... (Not Elsewhere Classified)

While opening the Traxol drum a small amount of the contents ""puffed"" from the opening and hit him in the face close to his left eye. He wasn't sure if it got in his eye or not but he flushed out his eye with water. He did not feel any irritation or burning and had no pain, but it was a possible that some got in his eye, so we sent him into the clinic to get checked out.

Struck by flying object

EMPLOYEE WAS GRINDIND A NEW DOOR OPENING FOR A HATCH TO BE ABLE TO ENTER THE DRYING MANIFOLD. A NOTHER EMPLOYEE STOP BY TO ASK A QUESTION AND EMPLOYEE FLIPPED UP HIS SHIELD AND DUST SLID OFF HIS SHIELD AND WENT BETWEEN HIS SAFETY GLASSES AND FOREHEAD AND ENTERED HIS LEFT EYE.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

EMPLOYEE WAS LIFTING A SECTION OF CONVEYOR BELT IN ORDER TO RIG IT TO BE LIFTED WITH THE CRANE. HE BENT DOWN TO LIFT THE BOTTOM OF THE BELT UP TO SLIDE A CHAIN UNDER IT AND FELT A PULL IN HIS LOWER ABDOMEN/GROIN AREA.

Fall to the walkway or working surface

EMPLOYEE WAS PULLING A BLOCK OUT FROM UNDER THE CRANE OUTRIGGERS AND SLIPPED ON LOOSE PELLETS. FELL TO THE GROUND AND FELT PAIN IN BACK AND GROIN.

Over-exertion in lifting objects

Employee and coworker were trying to position a barrel onto a cradle when he felt a snap behind his left knee. Was initially released back to duty no restrictions, during vacation on 6/1/09 a different Dr. took off work until next appt. on 7/2/09, Due to his vacation status and companies madatory vacation status he reported the aforementioned information to us on 6/15/09.

Struck by flying object

After grinding on crusher parts employee lifted up grinding shield and loose material fell into his right eye

Fall down stairs

EMPLOYEE WAS DESCENDING STAIRWAY IN THE MAINTENANCE SHOP AREA. EMPLOYEE DESCENDED DOWN THE STAIRWAY UNTIL HE REACHED THE LAST STEP LOSING HIS FOOTING & SLIPPING OFF OF THE LAST STEP STRIKING THE FLOOR RESULTING WITH A BRUISED LEFT KNEE & SORE BACK ON HIS LEFT SIDE. EMPLOYEE ALSO STATED THAT HIS LEFT SIDE RIBS HURT. EMPLOYEE WAS SENT TO VRMC TO BE CHECKED OUT.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee was walking down the concrete ramp, employee had his hands on the handrails at the time and stepped on some loose pellets and slipped and caught himself. Employee alleged that he injured his Lower back at this time.

2008 · 7 incidents

Fall to the walkway or working surface

Employee was searching for hex mesh steel next to pile of rolled channel steel. He went to walk away when his pant leg snagged on the steel causing him to trip and fall on his right elbow.

Struck against stationary object

-----Original Complaint on 11-26-08---- EMPLOYEE WAS ABOUT TO ENTER THE TROMMEL ON HIS HANDS AND KNEES. HE DIDN'T PICK UP THE RIGHT KNEE HIGH ENOUGH TO CLEAR THE OUTSIDE FLANGE OF THE TROMMEL FRAME. Returned to duty no restriction. Was seen again 1-26-09 MRI Ordered RTD no restrictions 3-25-09 RTD No restriction If persist P.T. 05-05-09 off work

Accident type, without injuries

The elevator governor failed causing one employee to be stuck in the elevator for approx one hour. Otis Elevator was called out to the site and fixed the problem. MSHA was contacted at 8:00am on 11-03-08.

Caught in, under or between running or meshing objects

EE standing on roll feeders & partner on floor at reducer. EE prying roller east w/ 4? pry bar, stepped back slipped slightly. EE reached North w/ RT hand to stabilize self & placed hand on reciprocating carriage rail while the carriage was traveling in a reverse direction. The reciprocating carriage wheel traveled over EE RT hand severing 3rd, 4th,& 5th fingers.

Over-exertion in pulling or pushing objects

Hose was buried in mud, the employee tried to pull out the hose in the mud, felt pain in his left shoulder. Sought medical treatment 7/20/08. Physician has taken him off work at this time until MRI can be done.

Over-exertion (Not Elsewhere Classified)

Employee stepped out of the doorway at the roof entry point and onto a wooden walkway constructed of spaced 2x4s. Two of the boards were broken covered with OSB board. She stepped on the board, which apparently slipped and she twisted her ankle.

Struck by flying object

Employee was walking by the south east door - grade floor level in the concentrator. When passing by the door the wind blew causing the particle to enter his right eye. Received medical indicating treatment beyond first aid on 6/6/08. Safety was to investigate further to ensure this was work related. Did not hear back from Safety until 6/12/08 am.