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Mine Type:  Underground Coal Category:  Section Face Equipment, Roof & Rib
Mine Safety and Health Administration
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Miner's Tips

Roof Bolter Drill Boom Tip

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A roof bolter operator was injured when the mounting brackets for the boom lift jack failed, causing it to fall and strike him on the leg. The boom lift jack failed because some of the bolts holding the mounting brackets had loosened and the other bolts had completely fallen out. He was using the drill chuck to tighten a roof bolt, instead of a wrench. The drill chuck got caught on the roof bolt. The roof bolter operator attempted to lower the drill boom but the lift jack rose instead of the boom lowering. When the drill chuck unfastened, the lift jack was not in place to hold the boom.

Roof Bolter Drill Boom Tip Roof Bolter Drill Boom Tip
  • Welded extensions should not be attached to the side of the drill head.
  • Use a wrench when tightening roof bolts.
  • Never put yourself underneath the drill boom unless it is blocked against motion.
  • Avoid pinch points, especially near the boom, ATRS and canopy.
  • Conduct a pre-operational inspection of the machine to ensure the lift jack mounting brackets are in place and the bolts holding the brackets are tight.
  • Conduct a pre-operational inspection check of the hydraulic hoses and fittings.
  • Use personal protective equipment.


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Issued: 10/06/2005
Tag # AP2005-M90943



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