On November 18, 2014, a 42-year-old contract supervisor with 19½ years of experience was killed at an alumina operation. A crane was lifting a 2,500 pound door to be installed on a filtrate tank. The welded lifting eye on the door broke loose and the door fell, pinning the victim on the concrete floor.
- Establish and discuss safe work procedures before beginning work.
- Identify and control all hazards associated with the work to be performed.
- Task train all persons to understand safe job procedures and to stay clear of suspended loads.
- Use welded lifting eyes that are specifically intended for lifting and adequately rated for the loads being lifted.
- Use certified welders and good quality welds when attaching lifting eyes or lugs.
- Ensure the weld metal is compatible with the base metal of the connecting components and thoroughly clean any rust or scale from a surface prior to welding.
- Carefully inspect all rigging prior to each use.
- Attach taglines to loads that may need steadied or to be guided while suspended.
- Avoid extreme side loading on a lifting eye or lug unless it is designed to handle such loading.
- Monitor persons routinely to determine safe work procedures are followed.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf)