Working alone in any mining operation can increase the risks of having a dangerous accident or worse.

Always do the following when you’re on the job —

• Evaluate the task(s) you’ve been assigned to do:
  • Do you have adequate training, knowledge, skills and equipment to complete the task safely?
  • Do you need any help, in order to ensure your safety?
• Always inform a responsible person where you will be working or traveling in the mine.
• Identify all hazards.
• Correct and isolate the hazard(s) or report them to your supervisor.
• Always use the proper tools and equipment to do the job.
• Don’t take shortcuts. Do the job safely.
• Follow established communication procedures.
• Use established check-in / check-out procedures.
• Safety always comes first. Protect yourself, especially when working in situations that require you to be alone.

Mine operators should have procedures in place so they can account for the whereabouts of every miner. This includes at the beginning of the shift, while they are working and at the end of the shift.

However, there could be times when miners willbe working alone or may be out of touch with others for one reason or another.
 
Because of this, it’s important for all leaders, managers and employees to understand their responsibilities in helping to lessen the risks of working alone.

REVIEW THESE CORESAFETY MODULES:

Module 2: “Responsibility and Accountability” – explains how leaders must clearly define roles and responsibilities for employees. At the same time, employees are responsible for their own safety and for looking out for the safety of others.

Module 4: “Fatality Prevention / Risk Management” – explains how acceptable risk should be defined by management. However, risk-based decisions can and should be made by workers when they have the knowledge, training and experience.

Module 7: “Culture Enhancement” – explains that a positive, supportive culture includes maintaining a constant state of vigilance regarding hazards and risks.

Want to learn more about CORESafety and how you can achieve the 0:50:5 objective at your mining operation?  Click here to visit our website.