A mining accident at a New South Wales mine has resulted in a mineworker suffering two fractured fingers from a vent tube chain while operating a shuttle car at an underground mine.
According to reports from the NSW Regulator, a shuttle car was used to pull a hose.
Following the pull, a vent tube chain was left hanging on the rail next to the cab of the shuttle car. The worker had his hand under the rail when the chain was driven over – the rail bent down squashing his fingers.
The Resources Regulator said ‘A vent tube chain should only be used for the intended purpose – not for lifting or towing. Operator’s compartments must be kept clean and free of hazards.’
A range of standards should be considered when selecting components for lifting or rigging. AMSJ have provided a basic list below for mines to consider during lifting or rigging activities.
AS 1353 – Flat Synthetic Webbing Slings
AS 1380 – Fibre Rope Slings AS 1418.2 – Cranes – Serial Hoists and Winches
AS 2317 – Collared Eyebolts AS 1666 – Wire Rope Slings – Product Specification, Care and Use
AS 2550 – Cranes – Safe Use AS 2741 – Shackles
AS 2759 – Steel Wire Rope – Use, Operation and Maintenance
AS 3775 – Chain Slings – Grade T AS 3777 – Shank Hooks and Large Eye Hooks – Maximum 60 tonnes
AS 4344 – Motor vehicles – Cargo restraint systems – Transport chain and components
AS 4380 – Motor vehicles – Cargo restraint systems – Transport webbing and components
AS 4497 – Roundslings – Synthetic Fibre – Product Specification, Care and Use
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