According to federal data, five miners have died on the job in the metal/nonmetal sector alone as a result of pipe-related incidents.

All occurred at the surface facilities of an operation.

On more than one occasion, the fatality occurred after the pipe slipped during placement or installation.

The agency says the first line of defense against such accidents, much like those seen in other areas of a mine, is the establishment of and frequent discussion about safe work procedures.

All workers, regardless of mine type, location and mining method, should be task-trained on how to recognize the hazards associated with pipework and understand the procedures for the job before work begins.

Equipment used should be securely blocked against hazardous motion during the activity and measures should be implemented to ensure workers’ proper positions and protection.

Finally, MSHA said operations should always be routinely monitoring personnel to determine safe work procedures were followed.