skip navigational linksDepartment of Labor Seal U.S. Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978		 Photos representing the mining workforce
www.msha.gov
[skip navigational links]Search MSHA Advanced Options | A to Z | Help
Find It! in DOL | Compliance Assistance |    
"Mine Safety Minutes" Text Transcripts
#17 - Mobile Equipment/Brakes
    Last year, mishaps involving mobile equipment killed nearly one-third of all victims of fatal mining accidents. Defective brakes were a factor in four of the five most recent mobile equipment accidents.

    Hello, I'm Dave Lauriski, head of MSHA.

    Those familiar with mining know that accidents involving mobile equipment at mining operations have replaced roof fall accidents as the leading cause of accidental deaths in mining.

    Here are some good practices that will reduce the chances of it happening at your mining operation:

    Inspect your equipment thoroughly.

    Be sure to maintain all of your mobile equipment in accordance with the original equipment manufacturer's specifications.

    The manufacturer's original equipment load limits should never be exceeded.

    Mobile equipment brake systems should be adequately tested before the equipment is used. And mobile equipment should never be left unattended unless the controls are placed in park and the parking brake is set.

    And please remember--seat belts should always be provided and always worn whenever mobile equipment is being operated.

    Thank you for listening.



Back to Top   Back to Top www.msha.gov www.dol.gov
Frequently Asked Questions | Freedom of Information Act | Customer Survey
Accessibility | Privacy & Security Statement | Disclaimers
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
1100 Wilson Boulevard, 21st Floor
Arlington, VA 22209-3939		 Phone:    (202) 693-9400
Fax-on-demand: (202) 693-9401
Technical (web) questions: Webmaster
On-line Filing Help: MSHAhelpdesk@dol.gov
or call (877) 778-6055
Contact Us