Mitigating the high consequence hazards in the Mineral Products Industry

Fatal 5 - Struck by moving or falling object

31% of the fatalities in the industry are associated with individuals being struck by moving or falling objects.

Incidents involving injuries from a falling or moving object commonly are associated with operators dropping tools, parts or dislodging materials that either fall on them or a colleague, individuals being struck during  loading or unloading, materials being thrown out during a manufacturing process, materials falling from conveyors or other transportation system and failure of strapping/lifting device during maintenance procedures.

These risks can be mitigated by a range of measures which include;

• Complete lifting plans and supervision of lifting operations
• Wearing appropriate PPE such as  safety helmets and boots
• Overhead protection or use of netting
• Better guarding  that prevents spillage
• Checking that the  correct lifting devices are being used
• Checking that lifting devices are well maintained
• Maintaining safety zones during loading and unloading
• Moving pedestrians away form high risk areas
• Ensuring that storage areas and shelving are appropriate
• Better risk assessments and safe systems of work.

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