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MINE FATALITY – On May 21, 2026, a contractor died when an explosion occurred while he was heating the flights on an auger used to load ammonium nitrate.
Best Practices
- Practice safe-work procedures for hot-work on and around reactive material conveyance and storage systems. Never apply heat when reactive materials are present.
- Train miners and contractors on reactive material hazards and clean out procedures prior to performing repair work.
- Conduct job‑specific hazard assessments and follow manufacturer recommendations for auger removal, repair, and welding activities.
- Ensure all stored energy sources, including mechanical, electrical and thermal are locked out, tagged out, and secured against motion before removing or repairing augers or drive components.
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Miners and mine operators can find safety and health information on MSHA.gov.
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