An eye injury to a mine worker performing a routine task on a slurry pump has highlighted the need for effective safety processes and eye protection.
According to a report from the mining regulator, a worker was cleaning a washery sump was hit in the face with mud/slurry from a hose under pressure. The worker suffered a fractured eye socket. It is not certain if adequate eye protection was warn.
Recommendations to industry: Mine operators and contract companies should review the use of non-genuine hoses, nozzles and fittings. Mine operators and contract companies should also review the training their workers have received in relation to the potential hazards associated with blockages in pressurised systems.
Read more….another slurry pump incident
A 10/8 slurry pump exploded after becoming deadheaded during operation. The explosion propelled the associated suction pipe work several metres together with the cover plate causing significant damage to surrounding structures. There was no worker in the vicinity at the time.
How did it happen?
Recommendations to prevent slurry pump explosions
- Change management processes should occur whenever a proposed modification to a process may have an impact on the safety and health of workers. The modification should be authorised at an appropriate level of authority, and be documented and understood by operators.
- Where critical controls are in place to prevent catastrophic events, a regular check should be carried out to verify that the control is effective.
- Operators should have a basic understanding of the process and of the safety critical controls that are in place.
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