Safety alert: Dangers of lifting and pulling activities revealed 

The Regulator has released a safety alert after 2 workers were injured within 3 days during lifting and pulling activities at 2 NSW underground coal mines.



In the first incident, a worker was loosening pins to separate a longwall tailgate drive from roof supports when the chain and hook slipped off the pin and flung upwards, striking him on the cheek.



In the second incident, the shovel of a continuous miner was chained to the cutter boom to enable tramming for repairs. The chain failed and hit a worker on the face and shoulder.



The Regulator urges mine operators to ensure all relevant people in their organisation receive a copy of the alert and are informed of its content and recommendations. It should also be placed in the mine’s common area, such as on a notice board, where appropriate.

• Read the safety alert