An operator buried the boom of an excavator while clearing material from a highwall. The incident has highlighted the need for effective ground control plans despite the working conditions.
The NSW Resource Regulator said that an excavator was cleaning over blast that was against a 10-metre highwall. While the bucket was low into the material, further material fell onto the bucket. The machine was caught by the material on the bucket. There were no injuries.
Recommendations to industry:
A Section 195 prohibition notice was issued to the mine preventing recovery of the machine until appropriate risk controls had been established.
Ground and slope stability need to be considered when completing any task.
The introduction of new risks needs to be assessed and appropriate action taken to reduce exposure.
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