A 65-year old truck driver was fatally injured when his truck travelled over a berm and into an impoundment of water – says the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Divers recovered the victim in 20 feet.
The MSHA alert confirmed this is the fifth fatality reported this year in metal and non-metal mining. In addition, the incident is the second powered haulage fatality in 2018.
Best Practices:
• Maintain control and stay alert when operating mobile equipment.
• Conduct adequate pre-operational checks and correct any defects affecting safety in a timely manner prior to operating mobile equipment. Maintain equipment braking and steering systems in good repair and adjustment.
• Operate mobile equipment at speeds consistent with the conditions of roadways, tracks, grades, clearance, visibility, curves, and traffic.
• Ensure that berms are adequate for the vehicles present on site, including but not limited to height, material, and built on firm ground.
• Consider storing personal flotation devices in equipment that is being operated near water.
• Ensure that all exits from cabs on mobile equipment, including alternate and emergency exits, are maintained and operable.
• Use seat belts when operating mobile equipment.
