June 7, 2022 - On December 3, 2021, a miner was fatally injured when he became entangled in the return idler on the belt conveyor under a portable crusher plant. 

Best Practices

• Before performing maintenance and repair work near belt conveyors:
  • Remove power from the belt drive.
  • Securely block equipment against hazardous motion in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
• Guard moving machine parts to protect miners from contacting moving parts.
• Provide and maintain a safe means of access to all working places.
• Conduct thorough examinations of equipment. Report defects and do not work in unsafe conditions.
• Train miners to assess risks and control hazards before beginning work on belt conveyors.

Miners and mine operators can find safety and health information on MSHA.gov.