MSHA attributes lack of training as the leading cause. MSHA data show that the most common violation cited in fatality investigations during recent years has been failure to use safety belts and lines when working in an elevated location. The second most common was failure to provide safe access to the workplace. Five deaths at small mines last year involved belt conveyers and related equipment. Such accidents have claimed the lives of 12 plant operators, six laborers, four mechanics and two supervisors since 1990.
Independent contractors including haulers are a high-risk group.
MSHA advises that mine operators keep stockpiles trimmed, enforce safe work procedures and make sure customer truck drivers stay in their trucks at all times. Small operators should do a safety walk of work areas daily, getting all employees to look for hazards, give safety training and enforce safe work procedures. One reason small mine operators are at higher risk is the large variety of tasks each individual is required to perform. Tasks which may be routine for an employee in a larger operation may be non-routine and less frequent in a smaller operation. Non-routine tasks tend to be done differently each time they are done and by each person that does them.