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Maintenance Work
Life or Death Experience


EACH YEAR, MINERS DOING MAINTENANCE WORK ARE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED FROM A WIDE VARIETY OF HAZARDS, INCLUDING ELECTRICAL SHOCK, INADVERTENT MOVEMENT OF MACHINERY OR EQUIPMENT, AND FALLING OFF PLATFORMS OR RAISED AREAS.

2003 Maintenance Alert


Best Practices
  • Establish safe work procedures, incorporating manufacturer's recommendations, to assure that workers are not exposed to hazards when performing maintenance or repair.


  • Ensure that all workers are trained in and follow established safe work procedures.


  • Prior to beginning work, clear the area of trip and fall hazards.


  • Provide safe access to all work areas.


  • Lock and tag electrical equipment and secure mobile equipment against movement prior to repair work.


  • Use appropriate fall protection where there is a danger of falling.


  • Stay focused for your own safety and for the safety of your fellow workers.



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Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
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