A miner has died after falling from a basket when the weldment securing the basket to the shovel failed, says the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
Best Practices:
- Check for damage. Routinely examine metal structures for signs of weakness (corrosion, fatigue cracks, bent/buckling beams, braces or columns, damaged/loose/missing connectors, broken welds, etc.).
- Replace cracked equipment fast. Small cracks in equipment can quickly grow into a complete fracture. Take cracked mechanical components out of service immediately.
- Know the limits. Consult with the manufacturer to determine the service/fatigue life of mechanical systems or parts.
