The New South Wales Resources Regulator has issued a warning to industry after a haul truck lost power and rolled backwards for 30m at one of the state’s mines last week.
The haul truck was on a ramp when power was lost, causing it to roll backwards into a bench where it came to a stop.
The operator had stopped on the ramp with the motor running, waiting for another task to be completed.
When the task was completed, the operator put the truck in gear, released the handbrake and took his foot off the footbrake to accelerate. The engine cut out and the truck began rolling backward.
The operator pumped the footbrake and pulled the retarder up and down multiple times with no result. He couldn’t use the secondary retarder as he was trying to steer the truck. The operator managed to steer the truck over a water diversion bund and bring it to a halt.
The NSW Resources Regulator is still investigating the cause of the failure, but issues a pre-emptive warning to miners.
“Mine operators must have systems in place to ensure the regular review and effectiveness of fit-for-purpose safety critical components over their lifecycle,” the Regulator said.
“This includes driving, braking, steering and emergency systems.”
Elsewhere in the state last week, a diamond drill offsider sustained minor injuries after he was hit in the abdomen and pinned against a wall by the rear of a drill string.
The offsider was walking past the back of the drill string, where there was minimal space, when the drill operator selected the rod pulling option instead of the rod feeding option, resulting in the offsider being hit and trapped when the joystick was engaged.
“Drill operators need to remain aware of their offsider’s location when pushing and pulling rods. The carriage should not be moved if you are not aware of their position in relation to the rig,” the Regulator said.
“Positive communications should be established to confirm the offsider’s location and to alert them when the drill is about to be activated. Mine operators should reinforce the application of drilling procedures, including the need for positive communications.”
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