On May 11 a 47-year old timberman with three-and-a-half-years mining experience received fatal crushing injuries when he was caught under the front end of a battery-powered EIMCO scoop.
The scoop, equipped with a "duck bill" attachment, was loaded with roof support wedging materials. The victim was last seen walking approximately five to six feet ahead of the scoop on the left side in front of the "duck bill”
To avoid similar accidents MSHA said miners should remain a safe distance from moving equipment until it had passed; walk behind moving mobile equipment when travelling in the same entry; when operating mobile equipment, ensure that other workers were in a safe area before moving the equipment; and when necessary to walk or work in the area of moving mobile equipment, wear reflective clothing to ensure high visibility.
