All MSHA-reportable accidents at Bluff City Minerals, LLC operations in 2009. Fatalities appear first.
Employee was working in bed of haul truck, knocking off anti-wear plates with a sledge hammer after the retainers were removed, while striking a plate, a piece of metal came off and struck him in the right thigh causing a laceration and imbedded into the soft tissue of his thigh.
While using an impact wrench on a bolt, a piece of metal spun around and hit first finger on left hand lacerating finger. 12 stitches were needed.
Reports was releasing a stuck pin on the bucket of the bob cat with a scaling bar, pin released and the bucket swung forward, the bucket detached and fell, scrapping the front of his legs. Deep abrasion to his right leg approx 18"" in length, and superficial abrasions to the left leg.
Employee reports was using a hand drill, the bit went through the metal and the drill twisted in his right hand and smashed against his hand. Dx: fractured right ring finger.
Employee was exiting the cab of the loader, slipped on upper set of steps, landed on left elbow causing and abrasion. Initially declined medical treatment. October 23, 2009 went to physician for continued discomfort in left arm and was given a prescription for an anti-inflammatory.
While performing duties of Yard Operator, employee climbed down off loader, missed the bottom step and twisted left knee.
Employee reports when performing shoveling duties approximately 1.5 years ago, began having numbness in bilateral hands, states it went away and returned approximately 2 months ago, with symptoms getting worse. Diagnosed with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome.