A mix up in radio channels has resulted in a 100 tonne Caterpillar dozer reversing over a light vehicle at the Mount Arthur coal mine in the Upper Hunter of NSW.
This is the finding of NSW Mine Safety’s investigation into a collision that occurred at the mine in October of last year.
The dual cabin utility was extensively crushed in the incident, but the utility driver was not injured. The incident occurred on an access ramp during back blading works.
The report states, ” The circumstances of this incident highlight the vulnerability of a light vehicle in this work environment. In this case, it appears the mine’s transport rules were not followed and positive radio contact was not established.
” The two operators were on different radio channels and other two-way radio calls from around the mine appear to have confused the LV driver’s perception of whether he was able to approach the dozer.”
For more information on the incident, the investigation and Mine Safety’s recommendations, refer to the High Potential Incident release: IIR14-01-Dozer-crushes-light-vehicle-at-Mount-Arthur-mine
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