In the incident, 150mm diameter pipe bundles were being unloaded on the surface yard area.

The truck driver removed the restraints then stood beside the truck cabin, adjacent to the load, while the mine site loader operator commenced unloading the pipes.

While bundles were being removed from the tray at the back of the truck an adjacent bundle was dislodged. The dislodged bundle then struck the truck driver knocking him to the ground and entrapping his foot.

The relevant inspector of coal mines attended the mine and conducted inquiries into the circumstances of the incident. Investigations are ongoing.

“Operators of coal mines should review their risks and controls for the unloading of materials and equipment on the mine with particular emphasis on the location of people as well as the amount and timing of load restraint removed during the unloading process, in order to protect the people who work at the mine,” the NSW inspectorate recommended.

“Operators should also review their arrangements for controlling access to site including systems for establishing the competency of persons to engage in loading/unloading activities.”