All MSHA-reportable accidents at Colowyo Coal Company L P operations in 2023. Fatalities appear first.
A grass fire was discovered and reported at 13:25 while employees were investigating why the mine site lost power and shortly thereafter, phones. A fire line was immediately cut around the fire and suppression efforts began. It was determined that a large bird had contacted a powerline resulting in the loss of power and the grass fire.
EE was cleaning out cardboard from the back of the blasting truck. EE stepped back towards the rear of the truck and stepped off the bed onto the tailgate. This caused EE to lose balance and fall resulting in EE jamming left wrist when EE tried to catch self.
After shoveling spilled coal in the train tunnel for several hours, EE reported feeling pain on the right side of lower back. EE was seen by a physician the following day and given medication for the pain. EE was held out of work until they could be seen for a follow-up with the physician.
A Wagner Equipment Co. field service technician was placing a D11 dozer on jack stands provided by ColoWyo Coal maintenance shop. The tech was positioning stands under the machine using handle. Stand rotated off dolly and pinched finger between handle and belly pan.
Security Officer had unused CCTV monitor fall on their head while attempting to retrieve items from post storage space resulting in black eye, stiffness of neck and headache. Security Officer was evaluated by a physician resulting in missing their next scheduled shift and being recommended light duty for several days.
Equipment Operator was assisting to unplug the 007 Crusher. The operator was turning the drive pulley by hand when left ring finger was pinched between the pulley and the belt. An x-ray revealed a fracture in the finger. The employee was given a splint for the finger to be worn while at work. The employee returned to work with no restrictions.
EE pinched right thumb and index finger between a gate latch and a door at the train tunnel. X-ray revealed a small fracture to the tip of the thumb. EE was referred to ortho and given a full release to return to work.
EE reports that, at the end of EE's shift, EE dismounted a highway haul truck, and EE felt a popping sensation along with a burning sensation and pain in the upper heel area of EE's left foot.