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Fatal Electrical Incident in Minnesota Taconite Operation: Lack of Safety Protocols

On October 12, 2006, a 24-year-old maintenance coordinator at a Minnesota taconite operation was fatally injured due to an electrical short in a ball mill starter circuit. While troubleshooting motor issues in the No. 4 ball mill, he encountered a failed air-magnetic circuit breaker, leading to a sustained arc-flash. Investigations revealed inadequate management policies, lacking regular testing of circuit protectors. This incident underscores the importance of robust safety practices, including regular maintenance of electrical devices and proper PPE to prevent future tragedies.

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Fatal Electrical Incident in Minnesota Taconite Operation: Lack of Safety Protocols

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  1. MNM Fatal 2006-23 • Electrical • October 12, 2006 (Minnesota) • Taconite Operation • Maintenance Coordinator • 24 years old • 16 months experience

  2. Overview The victim was fatally injured when an electrical short occurred in a ball mill starter circuit. He was troubleshooting an electrical problem in the motor ladder start-up sequence for the No. 4 ball mill electrical motors. An air-magnetic circuit breaker that provided over current protection to the circuit failed, resulting in a sustained arc- flash.

  3. Root Causes • Management policies and controls were inadequate. There were no procedures requiring the circuit breakers to be examined and tested periodically to ensure these over-current protective devices functioned properly. • Management failed to recognize the potential hazard of not providing over-current protective devices on all electrical circuits.

  4. Best Practices • Before YOU perform any electrical work or troubleshooting: • Periodically calibrate and maintain circuit protective devices to ensure they operate properly under fault conditions. • Wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as fire resistant clothing, hoods, face shields and gloves, which are designed to protect against electrical arc flashes (as per NFPA 70E). • Stop, Look, Analyze, and Manage (SLAM) each task to identify all potential hazards before performing work.

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