On August 14 this year an operator at Austral Coal’s Tahmoor Mine was injured when operating a rib bolting rig with mast-mounted controls. The rib bolting rig was fitted mid track to a Joy 12CM30 continuous miner.
While investigations into the incident are on-going, Joy said it appeared the guards on or around the controls for the rib bolting rig were either missing or damaged.
It has issued safety alerts via Joy Global operations, including an alert on August 26 in North America and last week in Australia.
Joy advised all mines using mast mounted rib bolting rigs should immediately inspect the adequacy and condition of all guarding on and around drill rig controls. Original equipment manufacturer parts and technical manuals should be used to ensure compliance with original guarding specifications.
Particular attention should be given to ensure all control handles are as per original manufacturers supply and be genuine parts, also handles are fitted in the original position as supplied by the manufacturer and guarding is fitted as per original supply.
Joy recommended a review of all safe-working procedures, operating procedures and training in the operation and maintenance of rib bolting rigs. These procedures should include regular inspection of guarding, handle position and function, damage, access, clutter and pinch points.
