'25-'26-Surface-Mine-Safety-Training-manual.pdf

Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Mineral Resources Management

Surface Mine Safety Training

Ohio Mine Safety Program

Staff Telephone and Email Listing

MANAGEMENT STAFF

Benny K. McCament – Chief, Mineral Resources Management Phone: (740) 942-9150 benny.mccament@dnr.ohio.gov

Howard ‘Butch’ Dyer – Mine Safety Program Manager Cell: (740) 412-1226 howard.dyer@dnr.ohio.gov

Michael Doane – Surface Mine/ Training & Certification Supervisor Cell: (740) 491-4187 michael.doane@dnr.ohio.gov

Russell Byers – Underground Mine/ Certification/Mine Rescue Supervisor Cell: (740) 491-2725 russell.byers@dnr.ohio.gov

SURFACE MINE INSPECTORS

Wayne Conrad – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 412-9535 wayne.conrad@dnr.ohio.gov

Ed Howes – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 491-6442 edward.howes@dnr.ohio.gov

Matthew McDonald – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 827-2349 matthew.mcdonald@dnr.ohio.gov

Becky Newberry – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (614) 935-0796 becky.newberry@dnr.ohio.gov

Matthew Simpson – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 491-3492 matthew.simpson@dnr.ohio.gov

Alan Soltis – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (614) 562-0826 alan.soltis@dnr.ohio.gov

Steve Weber – Surface Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 491-0071 steven.weber@dnr.ohio.gov

UNDERGROUND MINE INSPECTORS

Douglas Brown – Underground Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 433-4621 douglas.brown@dnr.ohio.gov

Scott Corder – Underground Mine Inspector Cell: (614) 315-3381 scott.corder@dnr.ohio.gov

Joseph Heagney – Underground Mine Inspector Cell: (614) 315-6828 joseph.heagney@dnr.ohio.gov

Jeffrey McLean – Underground Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 988-7699 jeffrey.mclean@dnr.ohio.gov

Scott VanCuren – Underground Mine Inspector Cell: (740) 827-5954 alan.vancuren@dnr.ohio.gov

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT STAFF

Staci Moon Phone: (740) 942-9150 Fax: (740) 942-9140 staci.moon@dnr.ohio.gov

Barnesville Mine Rescue Station 36320 West Captina Highway Barnesville, Ohio 43713 Phone: (740) 425-3973 Fax: (740) 425-3974

Zaleski Mine Rescue Station 29371 Wheelabout Road McArthur, OH 45651 Phone: (740) 274-4943 Fax: (740) 274-4937

ODNR Mine Safety Training Center* 43024 Industrial Park Road Cadiz, OH 43907 Phone: (740) 942-9150 Fax: (740) 942-9140

Salem.............................. (234) 206-4240

New Philadelphia .......... (330) 339-2207

Cambridge .................... (740) 439-9079

Cambridge Lab .............. (740) 439-5591

Zaleski............................. (740) 274-4943

Columbus........................ (614) 265-6633

Mt. Vernon .................... (740) 392-4499

Findlay ........................... (419) 429-8304

Lebanon.......................... (513) 933-6717

Mine Rescue Stations

Mineral Resources Management Offices

Dear Trainee, On behalf of Director Mary Mertz, Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the Division of Mineral Resources Management (Division), I want to thank you for participating in today’s mine safety training. It is the Division's goal that you find today's training to be productive and beneficial; taking lessons learned back to your work site to make mine sites safe in Ohio.

The goal of our Mine Safety program and staff is to assist Ohio's miners and contractors with valuable safety training. Following today's training, participants will leave with an enhanced safety awareness regarding hazards while working in the mining industry. The Division is committed to providing you with quality and relevant training that will improve your awareness on a mine site.

Ultimately our aim is for you and your co-workers to return home without injury at the end of the day.

The knowledge and experience you bring to the class is an important asset for our training sessions. You are encouraged to ask questions and make suggestions to help us improve our training for you and your colleagues around the state.

The Division conducts training programs all across Ohio and serves both industrial mineral and coal mines for both surface and underground mining. In 2025, we will also begin offering some new instructor-led virtual annual refresher courses for Industrial Minerals mines. We also have a Mine Safety Training Center facility which includes a simulated underground mine, a live burn simulator, along with classrooms and conference rooms. All of these are intended to enhance the training of our mining workforce and improve site safety conditions.

Our class instructors are Ohio mine safety inspectors with considerable mining experience. They can assist you with any questions you may have. You may also contact our Cadiz Mine Safety office at (740) 942-9150 if you require additional information or assistance.

Benny K. McCament, Chief ODNR - Division of Mineral Resources Management

A Note from the Chief

Ohio Mine Safety Program / Mine Rescue Stations Chief’s Note Miners Rights Changes at the Mine Site Specific Hazard Training Work Place Examination Independent Contractors ............................................... 8-9 Rules to Live By ............................................................ 10 -11 Standards Violations Personal Protection Equipment Enviromental Hazards Accident Scenario #1 Surface Mine Fatalities ............................................ 16-19 Mobile Equipment ................................................. 20-21 Fall Protection Ladder Safety Conveyor Systems Mine Safety Crossword Puzzle Ground Control Plant Equipment Maintenance & Repair GHS Hazard Pictograms Hazard Communication & Chemical Handling Explosives & Blasting Safety Accident Scenario #1 Traffic Control Site Communication Electrical Safety Lock Out/Tag Out DustControl Hearing Protection Eye & Face Protection Tool Safety Fire Safety Welding & Cutting Safety Crane & Excavator Safety Water Safety First Aid MSHA Form 7000-1 MSHA Form 7000-2 Mine Safety Word Search MSHA Notification Ohio Emergency Operations Center Certificate of Training Form (Part 48) Annual Refresher Training Record (Part 46) Frequently Asked Questions Training Course Evaluation Training Course Knowledge Check Answers - Knowledge Check, Crossword Puzzle

3Table of Contents

For more information on miners’ rights, go to MSHA’s website at www.msha.gov, and click on Miners’ Rights and Responsibilities.

One Call Does It All — 1 (800) 746-1553 Or report online at:

https://lakmshaegov01.msha.gov/

Knowledge Check

2. MSHA standards are found in Title ___ of the Code of Federal Regulations?

3. What year was the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act passed?

4. As a miner or contractor, do I have the right to refuse to do a job if I believe it is unsafe?

5. A miner who exercises any of their rights under the Mine Safety Act

certain circumstances.

Miners’ Rights and Responsibilities

• The right to report a suspected violation or danger to the operator, miners’ representative, or MSHA without discrimination

• The right to refuse to work under conditions believed to be unsafe, unhealthy or illegal

• The right to have a representative participate in a pre- and post-inspection

• The right to have a representative accompany an MSHA inspector during the inspection without loss of pay

• The right to effective health and safety training

• The right to protection from discrimination for exercising statutory rights

• The right to request an MSHA mine inspection

Federal Mine Safety & Health Act of 1977 An Act

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That this Act may be cited as the “Federal Mine Safety and Health Act

Miner Rights4

5Changes at the Mine

A person requiring site-specific hazard training must receive this training prior to going on the mine property. Beyond that, Part 46 does not require that a person receive site-specific hazard awareness training at specific intervals.

Part 46 requires that the training be sufficient to alert persons to the hazards they will encounter at the mine. This means that there may be cases where a person should receive additional site-specific hazard awareness training.

For example, if a person is away from the mine site for a period, it would be wise to provide that person with refresher site-specific training.

Additionally, if conditions at the mine undergo some change, some form of site-specific hazard awareness training must be given to alert persons of these changes.

MSHA regulations require the discussion of any changes at the mine that could adversely affect the miners' health and safety.

Mine Changes to Discuss

Roadway - traffic patterns, signage

Material & Mining - blasting, haulage, material seam, excavation, dump area, benching, loadout

Health Issues - noise levels, dust levels, new chemicals on site

Equipment - mobile equipment, conveyor system, crushing equipment

Personnel - new employees, new supervisors, new job assignments

Administrative - safety equipment, emergency response, safety policy, operating hours, upcoming events

6 Site-Specific Hazard Training

Site-specific hazard awareness training must be given to all visitors and contractors who will be exposed to the hazards of the mining operation.

When on site, all non-trained persons must always be accompanied by an experienced miner.

Site-specific hazard awareness training is information or instructions regarding the hazards a person could be exposed to while at the mine. The information should also include emergency procedures for the mine site.

The training must address

Site-specific training may be provided using written or verbal instruction, signs or posted warnings, I-pads, videos, walkarounds, even with the use of radio communication.

Questions

1. As a contractor, do I have to have site specific training at every operation I go into?

2. If I’m only going to be there one day, must I still be trained in site specific?

3. If I’m only delivering parts to the operation, must I still be trained in site specific?

4. Who is responsible for providing the training to a contractor?

Examination of the Work Place 7

Five Major Components of a Workplace Examination

1. The workplace examination must be conducted before miners begin working in the area and continue throughout the entire shift.

2. Operators must notify miners in the affected areas of any conditions found that may adversely affect their health or safety.

3. Operators must promptly initiate corrective action.

4. A signed record must be made of the examination and kept for a period of 12 months.

5. Documentation of the examination must be made available to the Secretary of Labor’s authorized representative and the miners’ representative upon request.

30 CFR 56.3200 Correction of hazardous conditions.

Ground conditions that create a hazard to persons shall be taken down or supported before other work or travel is permitted in the affected area. Until corrective work is completed, the area shall be posted with a warning against entry and when left unattended.

Think, Plan, and Train

1. Establish safe work procedures.

2. Follow manufacturers’ recommendations.

3. Secure block and/or chock equipment against movement.

4. Discuss all hazards and correct them before starting work.

5. Alert employees to the hazards.

involved.

8. Keep training up to date; task train employees.

8 Independent Contractors

Type of Training Needed

Per the CFR 30, there are two types of training requirements: Part 46 and Part 48.

• Part 48 covers all underground mines, surface coal mines, and some surface metal/nonmetal mines.

• Part 46, on the other hand, covers very specific types of mines.

If you are a Part 48-trained contractor, you may also qualify at a Part 46 mine operation.

You must have the proper training prior to beginning work at a mine.

30 CFR 45.4 Independent contractor register.

(a) Each independent contractor shall provide the production-operator in writing the following information:

(1) The independent contractor's trade name, business address and business telephone number;

(2) A description of the nature of the work to be performed by the independent contractor and where at the mine the work is to be performed;

(3) The independent contractor's MSHA identification number, if any; and

(4) The independent contractor's address of record for service of citations, or other documents involving the independent contractor.

(b) Each production-operator shall maintain in writing at the mine the information required by paragraph (a) of this section for each independent contractor at the mine. The production-operator shall make this information available to any authorized representative of the Secretary upon request.

Q: I worked in a mine several years ago, may I just come to an annual refresher class and be trained?

A: No. The current company you work for must give you experienced miner training. This is true only if you have a copy of your previous New Miner training records.

Q: Does the contractor have to have his own training plan in Part 46?

A: Yes.

Q: Does the contractor have to perform a workplace exam each day?

A: Yes.

Q: If driving a personal vehicle to the mine site, will it need a pre-operational exam?

A: Yes, if planning to transport materials for work and leave the employee parking area.

Q: As a contractor, do I need to report my hours worked to MSHA on a quarterly report?

A: Yes. Use Form 7000-2

ST. CLAIRSVILLE CONTACT

Jeff Hoblick

MSHA/EFSMS

50985 National Road St. Clairsville, Ohio 43950

(Email) hoblick.jeffrey@dol.gov (Phone) 740-695-2297

(Fax) 740-695-2315

For help Obtaining a Contractor ID contact

MSHA Educational Field Services

• Apply for an MSHA ID either online at www.

msha.gov or by calling MSHA’s Help Desk at 877-778-6055.

• Complete appropriate form & provide phone number - Contractor ID Request (Form 7000- 52).

Contractor Requirements for Working on Mine Sites

information for all hazardous materials on site.

• Current Training Records for all employees. This should include their New Miner, Experienced Miner, Annual Refresher, and all Task Training records.

9Independent Contractors

Who is an Independent Contractor?

Per 30 CFR 45.2 an independent contractor means any person, partnership, corporation, subsidiary of a corporation, firm, association or other organization that contracts to perform services or construction at a mine.

All independent contractors working on any mine site must be trained in accordance with the CFR 30 training requirements.

They also must have an MSHA contractor ID number and will be held accountable for all actions while on mine property per MSHA CFR 30.

2024 Total Fatalities = 28 total Coal & M/NM

• a decrease from 40 total Coal & M/NM in 2023

2025 Fatalities (first 6 months) = 14 Coal & M/NM

• 12 surface, 2 underground

2024 FATALITIES - 28 Coal & M/NM (by Occupation)

Fire Fighter

Maintenance

Utility

Electrician

Laborer

Equipment Operator

Contractor

Rules to Live By10

Rules to Live By I:

Fatality Prevention

- focuses on 24 frequently cited standards (11 in coal mining and 13 in metal/ nonmetal mining) that cause or contribute to fatal accidents in the mining industry in 9 accident categories.

Rules to Live By II:

Preventing Catastrophic Accidents - focuses on 9 standards which were cited during major disasters over the last 10 years, and which contributed to 5 or more fatalities.

Rules to Live By III:

Preventing Common Mining Deaths

- focuses on 14 safety standards (8 in coal mining and 6 in metal/ nonmetal mining) cited as a result of at least five mining accidents and resulting in at least five deaths during the 10-year period from January 1, 2000 to December 15, 2010.

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Equipment Operator

Supervisor

Plant Operator

Contractor

Maintenance

Welder

2025 Fatalities - 14 by Occupation (First 6 Months)

11Rules to Live By

Statistics compiled from 2000-Jan to 2010-Dec prove that the following standards were not followed which contributed to the accidents and fatalities of our nation’s surface miners.

Surface Coal Priority Standards 75.362(a)(1) On-shift examination

75.511 No electrical work shall be performed on energized low, medium, or high-voltage distribution circuits or equipment 75.1403-10(i) Off-track haulage roadways shall be maintained 75.1725(a) Equipment shall be maintained in safe operating condition or, removed from service 75.1725(c) No repairs until power off and blocked 77.404(a) Machinery and equipment; operation and maintenance 77.404(c) No repairs or maintenance shall be performed until the power is off and machinery is blocked

77.405 (b) Performing work from a raised position; safeguards

77.1000 Highwalls, pits and spoil banks; plans

77.1605(b) Loading and haulage equipment; installations 77.1606(a) Loading and haulage equipment; inspection and maintenance 77.1607(b) Loading and haulage equipment; operation 77.1607(g) All persons shall be clear before starting or moving equipment 77.1607(n) Mobile equipment shall not be left unattended unless brakes are set, chocked 77.1710(g) Safety belts and lines shall be used where there is a danger of falling 77.1710(i) Seatbelts shall be worn in a vehicle where there is a danger of overturning and where roll protection is provided 77.1713(a) Daily inspection of surface coal mine; certified person; reports of inspection

Metal/Non-Metal Priority Standards 46.7(a) New task training

56.3130 Wall, bank, and slope stability

56.3200 Correction of hazardous conditions

56.9101 Operating speeds and control of equipment

56.12017 Work on power circuits

56.14100(b) Safety defects; examination, correction and records 56.14101(a)* Brake performance

56.14105 Procedures during repairs or maintenance

56.14130(g) Seat belts shall be worn by equipment operators 56.14131(a) Seat belts shall be provided and worn in haul trucks

56.14205 Machinery, equipment, and tools used beyond design

Statistics compiled from 2000-Jan to 2010-Dec prove that the following standards were not followed which contributed to the accidents and fatalities of our nation’s surface miners.

Consider these lists as a starting point for workplace safety!

Top Standards Violations Ohio Surface Mines (2024)

MSHA Citation Standard Combined Total Violations Issued for

Coal

MSHA Citation Standard Combined Total Violations Issued for

Non-Metal, Sand & Gravel, and Stone

Pa ge

4, Su rfa ce

M in e Tr ai ni ng

Kn ow le dg e Ch ec k

1.

a b

2.

a

3.

a

4.

a

5.

b

6.

d

7.

c

8.

b

9.

c

. b

. a

. a

PPE works when used correctly. It has prevented countless injuries and saved many lives. It is critical to make sure your PPE fits properly, is in good condition, and being used the way it was intended in order to prevent injury.

Mining is an inherently hazardous industry. It requires strict safety measures to protect workers from physical, chemical, and environmental hazards.

PPE plays a crucial role in mitigating these dangers, ensuring miners can perform their duties safely and effectively.

30 CFR outlines essential PPE requirements for both surface and underground mining operations.

30 CFR 56.15002 All persons shall wear a suitable hardhat when working in or around a mine or plant where falling objects may create a hazard.

30 CFR 56.15003 All persons shall wear suitable protective footwear when in or around an area of a mine or plant where a hazard exists which could cause an injury to the feet.

30 CFR 56.15004 and 56.15014 Eye protection. All persons shall wear safety glasses, goggles, or face shields or other suitable protective devices when in or around an area of a mine or plant where a hazard exists which could cause injury to unprotected eyes.

30 CFR 56.15005 Safety belts and lines shall be worn when persons work where there is danger of falling; a second person shall tend the lifeline when bins, tanks, or other dangerous areas are entered.

30 CFR 56.15006 and 56.15007 Special protective equipment and special protective clothing shall be provided, maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition and used whenever hazards of process or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants are encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

14 Environmental Hazards

Poison Hemlock

• All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the sap.

• Plant sap will cause skin irritation.

• Pollen in the lungs or sap ingestion can cause death.

Venomous Snakes in Ohio

• Includes the Eastern Copperhead, the Massasauga Rattlesnake, the Timber Rattlesnake

• Bites of all three can be deadly.

• Care and treatmet: Reduce activity and seek medical attention immediately.

Venomous Spider in Ohio - Brown Recluse Spider

• Bites can lead to severe wounds or loss of limbs.

• If you think you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, seek medical attention.

Ohio Ticks

• Lone star tick can carry Alpha Gal which makes you allergic to animal products.

• All three species of ticks can carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Accident Scenario #1

Wet springtime conditions have made overburden removal from a new mining area challenging. The mine operator decides to hire an independent contractor to assist with the removal of overburden from the area, freeing up mine personnel to perform other operational tasks.

The contractor, however, does not have enough employees who received the required MSHA training to provide the service to the operator. The contractor plans to train his new mine personnel while working on site. The mine operator agrees, as long as those employees have completed 8 hours of the required training prior to starting work on site.

The contract employees complete an 8-hour online MSHA training class and will receive an additional 16 hours of training while working on site removing the overburden.

The contractor transports two of their own Cat 740B haul trucks, a Cat D8T dozer and a PC 360 Komatsu excavator to the site. A third truck is needed to complete the job properly, so they decide to rent an additional 740B truck and have it is delivered by the rental company. No one is at the site when this truck is delivered. The rental is 4 years newer than the contractor’s 740B trucks, and its assumed the task training for one Cat 740B truck would cover all MSHA task training requirements for any 740B trucks.

The contractor has a 4-person crew on site the first day. Only 1 of the contract employees has the proper training to operate the PC 360 excavator loading the haul trucks. The other 3 employees will operate the 740B haul trucks and the Cat D8T dozer. They are all in the process of completing their new miner training.

The berms at this site are built for the equipment the mine owns, not the contractor’s equipment. The height of the berm needs to be increased.

The haul truck operators push off the dump area with the dozer several times per day. They are unhappy with this progress, and they decide to work closer to the edge, hoping to reduce how often they exit their trucks to operate the dozer.

While operating a haul truck, one of the new miners begins a new dump row and backs up close to the edge of the berm. When raising the bed of the rented 740B truck, the berm breaks free causing the truck to slide down the embankment and overturn in the pit area below. Two rounds later, another operator notices the absence of the truck and operator.

During a search, they locate the truck at the pit bottom the spoils were pushed into. The road access to the pit is several feet away from the dump site. They call the superintendent at the facility for assistance and hurry to the access road. They arrive at the overturned truck in the pit and find the operator unable to communicate verbally. He is also hanging from his seatbelt and appears bloody from a large cut on his temple.

Discussion Questions

1. Should the PC 360 operator be listed in the contractor’s training plan?

2. If yes, where should he be listed in the contractor’s training plan?

3. Is online training acceptable by MSHA standards?

4. Should the driver who delivered the rented haul truck be trained?

5. Would the task training of the company-owned 740B haul truck be sufficient for the task training of the rented truck?

6. Would this contractor be required to have task training for inspecting and completing the workplace exam?

7. Is it okay to begin removing the overburden prior to increasing the height of the berm?

8. Would the contractor need to update their surface mobile equipment plan prior to working on site?

9. What first aid actions would you perform to address his injuries?

10. Is the operator or the contractor required to notify

MSHA?

11. If yes, does that notification need to be given within 10 days or 15 minutes?

12. Who will be deemed responsible for this accident and what citations, if any, should be issued?

Surface Mine Fatalities (July '24 - June '25)

FATAL ALERTS:

FATAL ALERTS:

POWERED HAULAGEPOWERED HAULAGE

FATAL ALERTS

FATAL ALERTS

POWERED HAULAGESLIPS / FALLSPOWERED HAULAGEPOWERED HAULAGE

POWERED HAULAGEPOWERED HAULAGE

Fatal Alerts - *Images correspond with the Fatality References on pg. 19. Fatal Alerts - *Images correspond with the Fatality References on pg. 19.

FATAL ALERTS

FATAL ALERTS

POWERED HAULAGEMACHINERY POWERED HAULAGEFALL OF MATERIAL

FATAL ALERTS

June 14, 2024*

FATAL ALERTS

March 5, 2025*

POWERED HAULAGEEXPLOSIVES POWERED HAULAGEFIRE

Fatal Alerts - *Images correspond with the Fatality References on pg. 19.

POWERED HAULAGEELECTRICAL

August 9, 2024*

POWERED HAULAGEDROWNING

August 22, 2024*

Fatal Alerts - *Images correspond with the Fatality References on pg. 19.

Fatality Reference

buckets or booms of loaders in operation, and 2) provide adequate illumination in working areas.

of equipment while it was in motion, and 2) task train the miner on the operation of the truck.

opening in the floor, 2) maintain the floor area in a dry condition, and 3) conduct workplace examinations and correct hazardous conditions.

washer against motion while performing maintenance, and 2) provide task training on log washer maintenance procedures.

hazardousground conditions, 2) use mining methods to maintain highwall stability, 3) designate persons experienced in examining and testing for loose ground to conduct ground conditionexaminations, 4) conduct a workplace examination, and 5) develop and implement a written safety program for surface mobile equipment.

The miner was assisting in detonating the explosives.

when a combustion explosion occurred. The fire on the front-end loader heated the tire and caused a buildup of flammable gases inside the tire, which were ignited.

disconnecting device to an electrical circuit was locked out and tagged out before work began, and

2) ensure proper protective equipment was worn before working in an energized electrical panel.

Additionally, (3) the mine operator did not ensure that the contracted electrician received the proper site-specific hazard awareness training.

MSHA’s Power Haulage Safety Initiative

Safety Program for Surface Mobile Equipment - Final Rule

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Compliance Date Q. Who must comply with the standard?

A. Production operators and part 45 independent contractors must comply with the standard.

Q. When will MSHA begin to enforce the standard?

A. The final rule became effective January 19, 2024. MSHA began enforcement of the standard July 17, 2024.

Q. When are production operators and part 45 independent contractors required to develop a written safety program for surface mobile equipment?

A. Production operators and part 45 independent contractors who develop their own safety programs have until July 17, 2024 to develop and implement a written safety program for surface mobile equipment.

Independent Contractors Q. Who is a part 45 independent contractor?

A. A part 45 independent contractor is a contractor who has a part 45 identification number and performs construction or services at the mine.

Q. What are the responsibilities of part 45 independent contractors under the standard?

A. MSHA expects production operators and part 45 independent contractors to communicate and coordinate with each other on their respective safety programs. MSHA expects most independent contractors will develop and implement their own safety program. Production operators and part 45 independent contractors can integrate their safety programs. If they agree to integrate their safety programs, the independent contractor does not need to develop a separate safety program.

Q. I am a production operator with several contractors working at the mine site. Am I responsible for ensuring that contractors at the mine have a safety program?

A. A production operator must ensure that the part 45 independent contractors have a safety program that complies with the standard or that the part 45 independent contractors’ safety programs are integrated into the production operator’s safety program. Contractors without a part 45 identification number are not required to develop and implement a safety program under the standard. However, the production operator’s safety program must include the contractors’ surface mobile equipment in their safety program.

Q. I am not a part 45 independent contractor, but I provide earthmoving services at several mines. Am I required to have a surface mobile equipment safety program?

A. No, but your surface mobile equipment must be addressed in the production operator’s safety program.

Q. Does the standard apply to seasonal or intermittent mines?

A. Yes.

Safety Program Requirements Q. What are the written safety program requirements?

Mobile Equipment

21Mobile Equipment

Best Practices

parking brakes set.

3. Pre-shift inspection must be performed on equipment; if the operator changes equipment through out the day, another pre-shift inspection must be performed on equipment.

4. Follow the company’s pre-shift inspection procedure. Items to check:

- Fluid levels

- Back alarms

- Seat belts

- Tires

- Lights

- Emergency steering

- Windows (broken or cracked)

A. The safety program must include actions that a production operator, part 45 independent contractor, or both take to: (1) Identify and analyze hazards and reduce the risks related to the movement and operation of surface mobile equipment; (2) Develop and maintain procedures and schedules for routine maintenance and non-routine repairs for surface mobile equipment; (3) Identify currently available and newly emerging feasible technologies that can enhance safety at the mine and evaluate whether to adopt them; and (4) Train miners and other persons at the mine necessary to perform work to identify and address or avoid hazards related to surface mobile equipment.

A responsible person must evaluate and update the written safety program at least annually, or as mining conditions or practices change that may adversely affect the health and safety of miners or other persons, as accidents or injuries occur, or as surface mobile equipment changes or modifications are made. In addition, production operators or part 45 independent contractors must solicit input from miners and their representatives in developing and updating the written safety program.

https://www.msha.gov/final-rule-safety-program-surface-mobile-equipment

(continued - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

22 Fall Protection

Falls are common causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths. Fall protection planning can help to eliminate the hazards or control the risks associated with working near openings or at heights.

30 CFR 56/57.15005 requires that fall protection must be worn where there is danger of falling; a second person must tend the lifeline when bins, tanks or other dangerous areas are entered.

Fall Protection Plan A comprehensive fall prevention plan involves assessing risks, implementing preventive measures, and providing education and training.

Evaluate and modify the workplace environment to reduce hazards and improve safety.

Inspection Fall protection equipment must be inspected prior to each use. Pre-use inspections are performed by a trained person. Inspect for wear, damage, and other deterioration.

Fall protection anchor points must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee attached.

On the mine site, even a small fall can lead to serious injury and big falls often mean death.

Using correctly fitting fall protection every time it’s needed is very important.

Inspection tag

Best Practices

• Reduce hazards. Design work areas and develop job tasks to minimize fall hazards.

• Have a program. Establish an effective fall prevention and protection program. Provide task and site-specific hazard training that prohibits working at unprotected locations.

• Provide fall protection to each miner who may work at an elevated height, or a location unprotected by handrails. Ensure their use.

• Provide secure anchor points.

• Provide mobile or stationary platforms or scaffolding at locations and on work projects.

23Ladder Safety

Before Climbing

1. Choose the correct ladder appropriate for the job and total load capacity.

2. Check for damage or issues before each use.

Don't use a damaged ladder.

3. Ensure physical capability of using a ladder.

4. Set up the ladder on a flat and stable surface;

positioned at the proper angle. Follow the 4:1 rise-to-run ratio.

5. Set up in a safe place, free and clear of obstacles.

While Climbing / During Use

6. Face the ladder. Always maintain three points of contact.

7. Only take small items up or down a ladder.

8. Keep body centered. Don't twist or lean.

9. Don't overreach more than 12 inches to either side. Move the ladder instead of leaning or stretching.

10. Avoid the top three rungs. Don't stand on the top three rungs of a straight ladder, or the second step from the top of a stepladder.

11. Climb down cautiously.

30 CFR 56/57.11003

Ladders shall be of substantial construction and maintained in good condition.

Duty Rating for Load Capacity Ladders are rated on the amount of weight that the ladder can safely bear.

The load capacity includes the combined weight of the person and equipment and materials carrpred on the ladder at any given time.

24 Conveyor Systems

Accidents involving conveyor systems injure and kill workers every year.

Conveyor System Safety Check

1. Are all guards in place and secured?

2. Are walkways clear and free of debris?

3. Are handrails and toe boards present where needed?

6. Does the structure have cracks, broken welds, or rotten beams or supports?

7. Before performing work, has the belt starter been locked, tagged, and tested?

30 CFR 57.14112 — Construction and maintenance of guards

(a) Guards shall be constructed and maintained to

(1) Withstand the vibration, shock, and wear to which they will be subjected during normal operation:

and

(2) Not create a hazard by their use.

(b) Guards shall be securely in place while machinery is being operated, except when testing or making adjust-ments which cannot be performed without removal of the guard.

25Mine Safety Crossword Puzzle

Conveyor System Safety Check

1. Are all guards in place and secured?

2. Are walkways clear and free of debris?

3. Are handrails and toe boards present where needed?

6. Does the structure have cracks, broken welds, or rotten beams or supports?

7. Before performing work, has the belt starter been locked, tagged, and tested?

Mine Safety Crossword

5 6

9 10

11 12

15 16

17 18

19 20

ACR0SS

4. Personal floatation device

5. Personnel working at a mine but not a mine operator employee

8. When climbing, always keep ___.

11.Gas symbol for carbon monoxide 12.Rope used when lifting a suspended load 14.Maximum weight for orange ladder 15.Must be worn while operating vehicles with

ROPS cabs 17.Spreading water on roadways 20.Material leaving a blast area 21.Receive normal pay for training

DOWN

1. New haul road

2. Medical item for excessive bleed

3. Safety glasses, hard-toe shoes, hard hat

5. Shell type of dredge

6. Ringing in the ears

7. Communication given to mine visitors

9. Data sheet information on a hazardous product 10 Protects workers from pinch points 11.Work areas should always be kept ___.

13.Eight hours each day 16.Learning a new job 18.A bright light from an electrical source 19.CPR compression and breath ratio

26 Ground Control

Dredging

• Dredge ponds should be treated as underwater highwalls since they have no safety benching.

• Company should determine a safe distance that the machinery can be run from the edge of water.

30 CFR 56.9300 — Berms or guardrails.

(a) Berms or guardrails shall be provided and maintained on the banks of roadways where a drop-off exists of sufficient grade or depth to cause a vehicle to overturn or endanger persons in equipment.

(b) Berms or guardrails shall be at least mid-axle height of the largest self-propelled mobile equipment which usually travels the roadway.

(c) Berms may have openings to the extent necessary for roadway drainage.

30 CFR 57.9301 — Dump site restraints.

Berms, bumper blocks, safety hooks, or similar impeding devices shall be provided at dumping locations where there is a hazard of overtravel or overturning.

Berm Inspection Items to check:

Stream breach into active pitHighwall sloughing

Plant Equipment Maintenance & Repair 27

30 CFR 56.14211 — Blocking equpment in a raised position.

(a) Persons shall not work on top of, under, or work from mobile equipment in a raised position until the equipment has been blocked or mechanically secured to prevent it from rolling or falling accidentally.

(b) Persons shall not work on top of, under, or work from a raised component of mobile equipment until the component has been blocked or mechanically secured to prevent accidental lowering. The equipment must also be blocked or secured to prevent rolling.

(c) A raised component must be secured to prevent accidental lowering when persons are working on or around mobile equipment and are exposed to the hazard of accidental lowering of the component.

(d) Under this section, a raised component of mobile equipment is considered to be blocked or mechanically secured if provided with a functional load-locking device or a device which prevents free and uncontrolled descent.

(e) Blocking or mechanical securing of the raised component is required during repair or maintenance of elevated mobile work platforms.

30 CFR 56.16006 —

Protection of gas cylinder valves.

Valves on compressed gas cylinders shall be protected by covers when being transported or stored, and by a safe location when the cylinders are in use.

29Hazard Communication & Chemical Handling

30 CFR 47.32 - HazCom program contents.

The HazCom program must include the following:

(a) How this part is put into practice at the mine through the use of—

(1) Hazard determination,

(2) Labels and other forms of warning,

(3) Material safety data sheets (MSDSs), and

(4) Miner training.

(b) A list or other record identifying all hazardous chemicals known to be at the mine. The list must—

(1) Use a chemical identity that permits cross-referencing between the list, a chemical's label, and its MSDS; and

(2) Be compiled for the whole mine or by individual work areas.

(c) At mines with more than one operator, the methods for—

(1) Providing other operators with access to MSDSs, and

(2) Informing other operators about—

(i) Hazardous chemicals to which their miners can be exposed,

(ii) The labeling system on the containers of these chemicals, and

(iii) Appropriate protective measures.

30 Explosives & Blasting Safety

77.1303 Explosives, Handling and Use

(a) Persons who use or handle explosives or detonators shall be experienced men who understand the hazards involved;

trainees shall do such work only under the supervision of and in the immediate presence of experienced men.

(e) Where electric blasting is to be performed, electric circuits to equipment in the immediate area to be blasted shall be deenergized before explosives or detonators are brought into the area; the power shall not be turned on again until after the shots are fired.

(g) Areas in which charged holes are awaiting firing shall be guarded, or barricaded and posted, or flagged against unauthorized entry.

30 CFR 56.6306(f)(1) - Before firing a blast

(1) Ample warning shall be given to allow all persons to be evacuated.

(2) Clear exit routes shall be provided for persons firing the round; and

(3) All access routes to the blast area shll be guarded or barricaded to prevent the passage of persons or vehicles.

Discussion Questions

Accident Scenario #2 31

It was March and the Lucky 7 Mine was operating their processing plant without completing any winter repairs. Most of the employees were laid off for the winter leaving maintenance shorthanded. Two of the plant conveyors needed conveyor belts replaced. The mine could only afford to replace one of the belts currently.

During the weekly staff meeting, replacement of conveyor belt C-13 was discussed and assigned; belt C-12 would have to be replaced later in the year.

Three employees gathered the tools and equipment for the job while a fourth went to lock out the conveyor. The guards were taken off the tail section of conveyor C-13 and work began to remove the old belting and replace with the new belting.

Nearing completion of the replacement project, several employees assigned to the task were no longer needed. The supervisor of the operation dispatched two of the employees to test the emergency stops on all the other conveyors.

Just as conveyor C-12 started up, someone yelled to stop the belt. One of the employees finishing the new belting on C-13 saw the belt skirting of conveyor C-12 was under the conveyor belt, not on top like it should be during operation. He took a spud bar to move the skirting into its normal position on top of the belt. This employee did not lock out because he thought it would only take a minute.

When conveyor C-12 was started, the movement of the conveyor pulled the employee into the belting system severing his arm just above the elbow.

1. Who should lock out / tag out when working on a conveyor?

2. Should the employee who lost a portion of his arm have been locked out?

3. What first aid actions should the employees quickly take?

4. Does MSHA need to be called in 15 minutes?

5. Would a 7000-1 form need to be filed with MSHA?

6. Would you need to alert the State of Ohio of this accident?

7. Do you need to be task trained to re-position belt skirting?

32 Traffic Control

1. Obey speed limits.

2. Obey all signage.

3. Obey all traffic controls.

4. Watch for overhead powerlines

5. Berming shall be the mid-axle height of the largest piece of equipment traveling the roadway

6. Water the roadways for dust control.

7. During winter keep roadway clean and clear of ice and snow

Traffic Control

33Site Communication

Communication is KEY to safety on the mine site.

1. Methods of communication: signs, CB radios, hand signals, cell phones

2. CB radio channels will change throughout the mining area.

3. Some companies have a "No Cell Phone" or "Hands Free" policy.

4. Signage is to be posted for traffic patterns, speed limits and numerous other hazards.

34 Electrical Safety

If your truck, boom, or mast contacts an overhead power line:

To exit, jump from the truck landing with both feet together. Do not touch the truck and ground at the same time. Then, shuffle both feet as close as possible for at least 30 feet as you move away from the truck.

30 CFR 56.12004 —

Electrical conductors.

Electrical conductors shall be of a sufficient size and current-carrying capacity to ensure that a rise in temperature resulting from normal operations will not damage the insulating materials. Electrical conductors exposed to mechanical damage shall be protected.

Knowledge Check

1. Contact with electricity can cause

a. death

b. burns

c. muscle contractions

d. all the above

2. When do grounding systems need to be tested?

a. annually

b. after modification or repair

c. after installation

d. all the above

3. You cannot have a fatal shock from 120 volts.

a. true

b. false

35 Lock Out, Tag Out, Try Out (LOTOTO)

1. Hazardous energy must be isolated or dissipated before servicing or maintaining equipment.

2. Identify and isolate hazardous energy sources: electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and gravitational.

3. Follow a LOTO plan for each piece of equipment.

4. Lockout and tagout all circuits yourself, never rely on others to perform this task for you.

5. Always remember the practice to try out before beginning any work on equipment.

Best Practices

30 CFR 77.904 — Identification of circuit breakers.

Circuit breakers shall be labeled to show which circuits they control unless identification can be made readily by location.

30 CFR 77.500 — Electric power circuits and electric equipment: deenergization.

Power circuits and electric equipment shall be deenergized before work is done on such circuits and equipment, except when necessary for troubleshooting or testing.

Knowledge Check

1. Electrical lock-out/tag-out must be made by

a. the foreman

b. the electrician

2. Only qualified, trained employees should complete electrical tasks.

a. true

b. false

3. It is acceptable to use keyed-alike locks at mines with ten or fewer employes.

a. true

b. false

4. What information needs to be on a lock-out tag?.

a. date

b. employee name

5. Principle power switches shall be

a. color coordinated with the respective circuits.

b. labeled.

c. turned off while not in use.

d. all the above.

c. everyone working on the equipment

d. the safety manager

c. reason for LOTO

d. all the above

36 Dust Control

Can lungs clear silica dust?

Your body can get rid of some dust you breathe

in. But if you work in a job where you are exposed to high levels of dust for a long time, or work with products containing a high amount of silica, then your lungs become overwhelmed. As a result, your lungs can't get rid of all the dust.

How long does silica dust stay in the air?

This form of dust is so small that it can stay in the air for up to 12 days. Sometimes when we don't see dust, there are still particles circulating.

Am I exposed to silica dust at my job?

Miners working at surface mines are at risk of being exposed to silica-containing dust. The most common mine activities where exposure may be elevated include the drilling of rock, crushing, and loading of material.

Silica dust particles become trapped in lung tissue causing inflammation and scarring.