On Thursday September 1, 2011, a 29-year-old contract driller with 1 year, 3 months of experience was killed at a surface coal mine. The victim was attempting to separate a pipe connection when he was struck by a tong wrench. The rig was being used to drill a water well. The crew was working to free the drill stem that was stuck in the drill hole when the accident occurred.
Best Practices
- Stand a safe distance from areas of potential high energy release.
- Know the radius of machinery that pivots.
- Establish and follow safe work procedures.
- Ensure all components are adequately blocked and secured to prevent unintended motion.
- Know the limitations of equipment used for blocking motion and ensure that they are used within their specified limitations.
- Ensure all components are in good repair.
- Establish and follow communication procedures.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf), MSHA Investigation Report (pdf).