MSHA issues alert on mobile equipment

Arlington, VA — Spurred by the deaths of six miners who were struck by mobile equipment in underground production areas, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has issued a safety alert.

The agency details four of the incidents, including one in which two miners were fatally injured when a locomotive collided with the personnel carrier transporting them. In addition to the six fatalities, 61 miners have suffered lost-time injuries.

MSHA best practices for operating or working near mobile equipment:

• Slow down and sound audible devices when approaching hazardous areas and before proceeding through ventilation curtains or fly pads, intersections, and blind corners.
• Communicate your position and intended movements to mobile equipment operators. Wait for their acknowledgement before moving.
• Wear reflective clothing.
• Install and maintain clear ventilation curtains or fly pads at all intersections.
• Direct mine operators to evaluate available and emerging technologies, including proximity detection systems, and consider their implementation.
• Provide hand-held radios for workers on foot or dismounting a vehicle.
• Minimize pedestrian traffic on known haulage routes.