Dragline boom point sheaves fall to ground | Resources Safety & Health Queensland
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Coal Inspectorate | Alert | No.391 V 1 | 31 May 2021

Dragline boom point sheaves fall to ground

What happened?

Major structural failure of the boom point sheaves on a BE1370 dragline allowed the sheave assembly to fall from the boom point and land in the pit.

How did it happen?

A Coal Mine Worker (CMW) was operating a B1370 Dragline and in the process of slewing with a full bucket (in preparation to dump onto spoil). The CMW heard a loud noise and shortly afterwards the bucket fell to the ground along with a portion of the snapped hoist ropes, followed closely by the boom point sheave assembly. 

Key issues

A structural defect of the boom point sheave swivel yoke was not identified during routine maintenance. The location of the failure was difficult to visually inspect due to its location and the build-up of grease.

Recommendations

  1. Regular visual and ultrasonic testing of the boom point sheaves and swivel yoke for cracking, wear and lubrication.
  2. Regular visual and ultrasonic testing of all upper boom structural connections at the boom point box.
  3. Attend to all structural cracking immediately as outlined in the OEM Manual.
  4. Sites must have a structural inspection regime in place that ensures an acceptable level of risk is achieved.

Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information in this publication is what is known at the time of writing.

We issue Safety Notices to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident, raise awareness of risks, and prompt assessment of your existing controls.

Authorised by Peter Newman - Chief Inspector – Coal

Contact: Patrick Hurley, Inspector of mines (Mechanical) , 0447 458 278

Issued by Resources Safety & Health Queensland

Safety: This information is issued to promote safety through experience. It is not to be taken as a statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation.
General: This information is a guide only. It is not to be taken as a statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation.
Placement: Place this announcement on noticeboards and ensure all relevant people in your organisation receive a copy, understand the content, findings and recommendations as applicable to their operation. SSEs should validate that recommendations have been implemented.

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