A loader that became trapped under a collapsed coal stockpile last week has served as a reminder to industry of the need for caution when working around stockpiles.
Stockpiles are used extensively in surface and underground mining operations in the coal, metals and extractives sectors.
While the fundamental hazards associated with the management of stockpiles are similar across the industry, there are some hazards specific to coal, with stockpile dozers falling or being inadvertently driven into draw-down holes being the most frequent and serious.
One such incident occurred at a New South Wales coal processing plant, emphasising the need for mines to have proactive plans in place to minimise risk.
A loader was taking a bucket of run-of-mine (ROM) coal from a stockpile when a portion of the stockpile collapsed onto the bucket and the left-hand side front wheel.
The loader could not reverse out because of the additional weight of the material in and around the front of the machine. The loader operator was uninjured and was able to get out of the machine.
The NSW Resources Regulator investigated and emphasised workers must be familiar with different stockpile material properties and how this influences material behaviour on stockpiles.
“Mine operators are reminded of the potential hazards associated with stockpiles,” the Regulator said.
“Before starting work, supervisors and equipment operators should inspect and assess the work area to determine if hazards are present – such as the potential for material bridging and subsequently collapsing.
“Planning for the work must include identifying hazards, risk assessment and control.”
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