Two recent incidents at separate mining operations have prompted a renewed focus on safe work procedures, risk assessment, and equipment handling protocols.
One of the incidents took place at an open cut coal mine, where fitters were conducting maintenance on an excavator stick assembly that had been removed for line boring.
While attempting to retract the bucket cylinders using an overhead crane connected to the H-link, the cylinders unexpectedly retracted at speed.
The unbalanced stick assembly caused an overloaded fibre-lifting sling to snap, resulting in the assembly falling to the ground. A fitter on site narrowly avoided serious injury.
In a separate event, a personnel transporter (SMV) exiting a mine portal collided with a roof support that had been stored near the travel path.
The SMV operator, attempting to navigate around a stationary vehicle, misjudged the available space and struck the unmarked support structure. No injuries were reported, but the incident raised concerns about visibility and the placement of materials near active roadways.
Both incidents prompted a series of recommendations from the NSW Resources Regulator.
According to the regulator, site procedures are developed to help protect workers from injury or illness.
“Where a procedure exists for a particular task, workers should follow the procedure. Any deviation from a procedure should first be discussed with a supervisor and appropriate risk control measures put in place,” the regulator said.
In the incident with the assembly, the method chosen to retract the bucket cylinder introduced a risk that was not identified or controlled.
“Workers should ensure that loads attached by slings to a crane are adequately supported and secured to prevent unplanned movement.”
In response to the latter incident, the regulator noted the importance of principal hazard management plans for roads or other vehicle operating areas. These plans, the body said, should consider factors that may affect an operator’s ability to safely navigate a vehicle.
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