Dumping locations should be physically and visually examined periodically, especially during periods of changing weather.
All foreman and miners should be trained to recognize hazardous conditions at the dump sites.
Adequate berms should be provided to prevent over-travel at dump locations.
Trucks should dump one truck length back from tension cracks and the edge of unstable embankments, and a dozer should be used to push material.
Trucks should back perpendicular to the berm and not run up on the berm when dumping.
This is the second coal mine fatality in 1999. As of January 20 of last year there had been two fatalities. This death is the first classified as Powered Haulage in 1999.
For more information:
MSHA's Fatal Accident Investigation Report [FTL99C02]