Equipment operator killed in machinery accident, best practices offered
The US Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) issued a “Fatalgram” following the death of an equipment operator at a sand and gravel pit in USA.
On 9th October 2016, a 61 year old plant operator with three years’ experience was fatally injured while attempting to attach a screening plant to a front-end loader.
He was trying to hook them together with a steel cable when the equipment moved, pinning him. The injured miner was later discovered leaning against the loader bucket. He died of his injuries the following day.
MSHA offers the following Best Practices to help prevent this type of accident:
- Never position yourself between mobile equipment and a stationary object. Always be aware of your location in relation to machine parts that have the ability to move.
- Ensure that line of sight, background noise, or other conditions do not interfere with communication.
- Ensure operators are adequately trained for the task they are performing.
- Use a tow bar with adequate length and proper rating when towing heavy equipment.
- Make yourself more visible by wearing brightly-coloured clothing, or clothing that is distinguishable from surroundings.
- Operate all machinery in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating guidelines.
