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MSHA: plant operator breaks ankle from falling down 12-foot ladder

March 12, 2018

A plant operator fell down a 12-foot ladder while assisting another miner in removing a head pulley, according to The Mine Safety and Health Administration. The victim was treated for a broken ankle at a nearby hospital.

 

Best Practices: 
  • Use fall protection when working in an elevated position and securely tie-off where the danger of falling exist.
  • Provide and maintain safe access to all work areas.  Train miners on how to safely access all work areas.
  • Provide scaffolding or other types of temporary work platforms when working from a ladder does not provide sufficient stability or access for the task.
  • Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface.
  • Keep ladders free of any slippery materials on the steps or rungs.
  • Wear proper footwear and keep it clean of potential slipping hazards such as dirt, oil, and grease before getting onto a ladder.
  • Always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing or descending.
  • Do not carry personal items or supplies when climbing or descending a ladder. Use a cord or rope to lift or lower supplies or tools.

Source

 

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