Published: March 5, 2025 |

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Miners who operate mobile equipment should remain in the operator’s compartment when the equipment is in motion, the Mine Safety and Health Administration emphasizes in a recently released fatality alert.

The alert was prompted by a Jan. 10 incident in which a mobile bridge carrier operator died after becoming pinned between the equipment and a coal rib.

BEST PRACTICES
• Install and maintain person-in-position switches on mobile bridge carriers
  to require miners to remain in the operator’s compartment while the equipment is in motion.
• Steer clear of pinch points and “red zone” areas.
• Activate the emergency de-energization device or “panic bar” before exiting the operator’s compartment in the
  event of hazardous situations.
• When working around mobile equipment, always communicate your location and intended movements, and
  wait for the operator’s acknowledgement before moving.

“This is the second fatality reported in 2025, and the first classified as ‘powered haulage,” the alert states.

MSHA works to prevent death, illness and injury from mining and promote safe and healthful workplaces for U.S miners. The agency develops and enforces safety and health rules for all U.S. mines regardless of size or number of employees. MSHA also provides technical, educational and other types of assistance to mine operators. MSHA works cooperatively with industry, labor and other federal and state agencies to improve safety and health conditions for all miners in the U.S.

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