According to the agency’s records, during the month of October through October 22, one miner died and another four were injured at various mines in two different types of incidents, electrical and trip/fall.
In the fatal accident, an electrician died after falling eight feet from a ladder when a cable tray detached from a wall. Another left a miner with injuries after he fell several feet through a roof that was under construction, and yet another was on a jaw crusher cat walk when he fell 10 feet to the ground.
An electrician received burns at another mine by an arc flash after a 4160-volt breaker was energized. Another electrician was injured in the same way while using a hot stick in the substation of a plant.
“The…industry should remain vigilant in providing a safe work environment in light of these serious accidents,” MSHA officials said, noting that it is quite easy for accident numbers to compound.
In fact, according to US safety researcher Frank Bird, there are 600 near misses for every one serious workplace incident.
Additionally, he said, there are 30 accidents leading to property damage for every serious accident, and there are 10 who are classified as having minor injuries.
The agency is encouraging all mines to examine safety programs and work areas and to analyze all jobs before the work begins.
When hazards are identified, the manufacturer’s service guidelines should be followed and crews must always take the necessary safety precautions to avoid injury.
Some of these which relate to the recent string of accidents include blocking equipment components to prevent movement and the de-energizing and lockout of all electrical circuits.
Additionally, MSHA reminded miners, always establish safe access and use the proper tools called for in particular tasks. Wearing protective clothing and personal protective equipment is also crucial, as is the use of fall protection in appropriate situations.
Finally, the agency said, self-awareness and awareness of others is paramount to accident prevention.
