McCraren Compliance

MSHA – Mine Fatality #29

Original article published by MSHA

MINE FATALITY – On December 16, 2022, a contract mechanic died while removing the counterweight of an excavator, when it fell and struck him.

Accidsent scene where a contract mechanic died while removing the counterweight of an excavator, when it fell and struck him.
Photo property of MSHA

Best Practices

Operators should:

  • Block machinery components against motion before beginning maintenance or repairs.
  • Assure blocking material is substantial and installed correctly to support and stabilize the load.
  • Assure miners position themselves in a safe location and away from potential pinch point areas.
  • Train miners to conduct repairs according to manufacturer recommendations.

Additional Information

This is the 29th fatality reported in 2022, and the tenth classified as “Machinery.”


McCraren Compliance offers many opportunities in safety training to help circumvent accidents. Please take a moment to visit our calendar of classes to see what we can do to help your safety measures from training to consulting.

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