On March 8, 2016, a 54-year old miner with 5 years of mining experience was killed at a surface sand and gravel operation. The miner backed his haul truck over a dump site and the driver was found at the bottom of the embankment, 60 feet below. The victim was found unresponsive and partially submerged in water. CPR was attempted, but the victim was not able to be resuscitated.
Best Practices
- Maintain berms at least mid-axle height on the largest piece of equipment using a roadway.
- Visually inspect dumping locations prior to beginning work and as changing conditions warrant. Clearly mark dump locations with reflectors and/or markers.
- Provide training to all dump-point workers on recognizing dump-point hazards, taking appropriate corrective measures, and using safe dumping procedures. Instruct all drivers to maintain the truck perpendicular to the edge when backing up at dump sites.
- To lower risks at dump areas, dumping should be conducted a safe distance from the edge. Utilize a bulldozer with the “dump-short, push-over” method of spoiling material.
- Ensure work areas and dump sites are properly illuminated at night.
- Equipment operators should always wear seat belts.
- Monitor persons routinely to determine safe work procedures are followed.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf), MSHA Investigation Report (pdf), Overview (pdf).