Summary: A surface drill was operating when a small fire occurred. The fire was controlled using a hand-held extinguisher. An investigation identified two hydraulic hoses had rubbed through, releasing hydraulic oil that was atomised and drawn by the fan over the engine. The oil was ignited after making contact with a hot surface at a gap in the lagging near the turbo.
Recommendations to industry: Hose rubbing is a known cause of failure. Mines should enforce the importance of identifying and correcting rub points during maintenance.
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