Safety Alert issued after coal mine worker trapped by reversing vehicle

Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) Chief Inspector of Coal Mines Jacques le Roux said no one was seriously injured, however the incident could have been fatal.

“While reversing, a tilt tray truck came very close to a pick and carry crane and trapped a coal mine worker between the two vehicles,” he said.

“This incident could have caused serious injury or death to the worker involved. In 2024 a coal mine worker was fatally injured after becoming trapped between two vehicles.”

Mr le Roux said while the investigation into the High Potential Incident (HPI) which occurred late last month was ongoing, the regulator had shared some initial safety advice in response.

“All work parties should be in constant communication when vehicles are going to be moved,” he said.

“Workers should avoid being in the line of fire.”

RSHQ said if operators could not see all areas when moving a vehicle, they should always ensure a spotter was used at a safe distance.

“Before entering any tight area between an object and a machine that has the potential to move, workers should always check that the machine is isolated and chocked,” he said.

For more information and learnings, read the RSHQ’s Safety Alert.

ENDS

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