Entrapment incident spurs MSHA safety alert on bulldozers

Arlington, VA — The recent entrapment of a coal mine bulldozer operator has prompted the Mine Safety and Health Administration to issue a safety alert.

A bulldozer fell into a feeder after a bridged coal pile collapsed. This engulfed the equipment and trapped the operator inside the cab.

MSHA says emergency response efforts after the Oct. 10 incident were “swift and organized,” resulting in the successful rescue of the operator. Other factors that contributed to the safe rescue were the bulldozer’s high-strength glass, oxygen bottles and a remote shut-off for the feeder.

The agency offers best practices for avoiding bulldozer entrapments:

• Teach miners how to recognize hazards and respond to emergency situations.
• Maintain stability by not operating equipment directly over feeders and keeping away from draw holes.
• Use remotely operated bulldozers, where available, when working on surge piles.
• Stock equipment cabs with safety equipment. That includes emergency oxygen, carbon dioxide scrubbers and remote shut-offs.
• Install high-strength glass certified for at least 40 pounds per square inch with a frame and supports able to handle entrapment conditions.
• Always wear a seat belt when operating mobile equipment.
• Use spotters to assist operators working in potentially unstable environments.
• Communicate clearly during emergency response efforts.