MSHA: plant operator receives head injury from fallen rock

March 6, 2018

A plant operator shovelling material from around a crusher was struck on the head by a rock that fell from a surge bin deck – in a report by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. The rock split the victim's hardhat, causing a serious head injury.

Best Practices: 

  • Install adequate guarding in areas where miners work to protect them from the hazards of falling or flying material.
  • Keep walkways clear.  Remove all loose materials and other hazards before working.
  • Eliminate or minimize material spillage from belts, bins and hoppers.
  • Be mindful of falling material hazards and the risks from rock that can fly out from the screening plant.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment.
  • Restrict access to areas prone to falling or flying material
  • Establish and discuss safe work procedures.
  • Task train miners to recognize and eliminate all potential hazardous conditions and understand safe job procedures to eliminate all hazards before beginning work.
  • Do not place yourself in a position that will expose you to hazards while performing a task.

 

 

 

 

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