MSHA warns miners about working near water
Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration recently issued a hazard alert (.pdf file) on the dangers of working around water.
Seventeen water-related deaths have occurred in metal and non-metal mines since 2004. According to the alert, risks include travel or equipment near the water’s edge, equipment weight and vibration, undercut banks, sloughing ground, varied water depth, and swift current.
Among MSHA’s recommendations:
- Conduct daily workplace examinations
- Become familiar with the body of water, depth and subsurface conditions beforehand
- Keep equipment away from the water’s edge
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