Bulldozer operator Mark Stassinos, 44, was killed at about 2.30am October 6 at MidAmerican Energy Holding’s Jim Bridger mine when the Cat D11R dozer he was operating went over the edge of a highwall.
According to a preliminary report, the 10-year mining veteran was building the drill pattern bench at the time at a height of about 150 feet.
In an effort to help prevent future similar incidents, MSHA reminded mines to ensure all workers are adequately task trained on the equipment they are operating.
Miners should also be trained on safe work procedures, hazard recognition and hazard avoidance related to those tasks and vehicles.
When working on a highwall, the agency also stressed the importance of keeping a safe distance from the edge of the highwall as well as adequate berms.
“Be familiar with your work environment,” MSHA investigators said in its preliminary findings.
“Before beginning work, look at the area, walk around it, and plan the safest way to move the material and maneuver the equipment.”
Seat belt use, proper control and adequate illumination are also important to prevention, the agency said.
Stassinos’ death was the 17th in US coal this year, and the fifth machinery fatality.
He was also the second person to die this year at a Wyoming coal operation.
The surface portion of the Jim Bridger complex, located in Point of Rock, Sweetwater County, employs about 170 workers. Crews mine at a seam height of about 15 feet.
