Be cautious near conveyers

Mine mechanics are exposed to more conveyer hazards than other mine workers, resulting in many mining injuries and deaths, according to the Mine Safety and Health Admini­stration. Conveyers can grab workers and cause entanglements.

MSHA recommends the following precautions to prevent such injuries in mines.

• Lock and tag out the power switch before you begin work on the conveyer.
• Align the belt from a safe place only after you are sure the conveyer cannot grab you.
• Never try to fix or adjust return idlers while the conveyer is running.
• Be sure the guard is in place when maintenance is not being performed on the machine.
• Stay clear of suspended loads when installing or repairing the conveyer.
• Block conveyers against hazardous motion when repairing or performing maintenance on the machine.
• Use a harness or safety belt and line when working in places where a fall risk is present.
• Do not manually apply belt dressings when the belt is in motion. Only pressurized dressings can be put on while the conveyer is running.
• Do not attempt to dislodge rocks from pulleys while the conveyer is running.