The construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has released a safety alert urging all coal mines using haulage arrangements to check tow attachments for competency and signs of fatigue.
In two months the coal mining industry has suffered two high potential (principal hazard) incidents involving the use of on-road B-triple coal haulage trucks.
The two separate incidents have had the same catastrophic failure of tow attachments resulting in the two rear trailers becoming detached from the first trailer / prime mover.
In the first instance, the potential for multiple fatalities was evident as it occurred on a public roadway. The second instance was on a mine road with limited vehicle interaction.
The Union advised all mines to be forever vigilant and review maintenance scheduling with regards to non destructive testing for metal fatigue and wear.
Stephen Smyth
CFMEU
Mining & Energy Division
Queensland District Branch
07 4957 2644
s.smyth@cfmeuqld.asn.au