The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has issued a fatality alert after raw material on the sides of a hopper sloughed off and engulfed a miner.
MSHA says this is the second fatality of 2021 classified as 'handling material' (Credit - MSHA)
The MSHA says the minter entered the top of a primary feed hopper to break up and remove a large rock.
This is the 15th fatality reported in 2021 and the second classified as 'handling material', the administration adds.
Best Practices:
- Equip hoppers with mechanical devices, grates/grizzlies or other effective means of handling material so miners are not required to enter or work where they are exposed to entrapment by caving or sliding material.
- Establish and assure policies and procedures are followed to safely remove blockages in bins and hoppers. Follow manufacturer recommendations.
- Provide a safe means of access that allows miners to safely conduct tasks such as removing large rocks and other material.
- Wear an appropriate safety harness, lanyard and lifeline which are securely anchored and constantly monitored and adjusted by another person, as needed, prior to entering bins or hoppers.
- Train miners in safe work procedures and hazard recognition especially when removing blockages in bins or hoppers.
