MSHA reported that on Oct. 10,, a bulldozer fell into a feeder when a bridged coal pile collapsed, engulfing the bulldozer and trapping the operator inside the cab. Emergency response efforts were swift and organized, resulting in the successful rescue of the operator. The bulldozer was equipped with high-strength glass, oxygen bottles and a remote shut-off for the feeder, all…
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MSHA reports Alabama mine fatality
MSHA posted that a fatal accident occurred at an underground coal mine in Jefferson County, Alabama, on September 25. According to the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), a roof collapsed at the Oak Grove Resources Mine resulting in the death of one miner. At press time, the cause of the collapse was unclear. Operations are suspended at the mine…
Read MoreCauses and prevention of conveyor fires
An enormous part of worker safety is the prevention of hazardous situations at the mine site – especially those areas where risks are highest. There is always room to improve that level of safety, and behind that is understanding more about risk mitigation. To create a fire there must be three elements: oxygen, heat and fuel (also known as “the…
Read MoreNotes on underground mine safety
North American Mining takes a short walk through some recent topics in underground mine safety. By Jonathan Rowland Recent mining fatalities in the U.S. mining industry have involved vehicle collisions, electrocutions, falls, equipment rollovers, and drowning. Although fewer in number thus far this year compared to the same time last year, “fatalities, injuries, and illnesses are preventable, and one fatality…
Read MoreNavigating the regulatory landscape: Compliance and challenges for U.S. underground miningNavigating the regulatory landscape:
Kennametal has a consistent focus on customer’s sites and their operations-particularly changing underground regulations and how the costs of doing business changes in parallel. Underground mining procedures in the United States are filled with federal and state regulations to ensure safety, environmental protection, and fair labor practices. These highly complex regulations build a framework governing underground mining operations and significantly…
Read MoreMSHA issues alert on tire explosion during equipment fire
MSHA reported that on June 14, one firefighter died, and another was injured at Robar Enterprises Inc., Los Angeles, when a front-end loader tire exploded while firefighters fought an equipment fire. MSHA recommends the following best practices to avoid this type of accident. In the event of a possible or actual fire (e.g., odor, heat, smoke, flames):
Read MoreMSHA reports seventh fatality of 2024
MSHA reported that on May 16, a worker at a surface mine died when the excavator he was operating traveled over a 200-foot highwall. This is the seventh fatality reported in 2024, and the second classified as “Machinery.” MSHA recommends the following best practices to avoid this type of accident:
Read MoreMatrix showcasing innovations at MINExpo
Matrix Design Group is set to unveil an array of groundbreaking technologies at MINExpo 2024. Visitors to Booth 13045 in West Hall will experience the future of mining firsthand, including innovative products and collaborations envisioning the next generation of industry advancements. “Since its inception, Matrix has consistently offered transformative technological solutions to its customers. MINExpo offers an opportunity to reiterate…
Read MoreMSHA issues diesel particulate matter alert
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has issued a health alert on diesel particulate matter. The agency said exhaust from diesel engines contains a mixture of gases and very small particles that can create a health hazard when not properly controlled.
Read MoreMSHA completes 12-month POV screening
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has released results of a Pattern of Violations screening that identifies chronic violators and mine operators that show a disregard for miners’ health and safety. The results follow the agency’s reviews which, for the first time, included more than one POV screening by MSHA in a calendar year. MSHA conducted a POV screening…
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