Collision at mine site results in injury

A light vehicle has collided with an entry gate at the Mount Arthur coal mine near Muswellbrook, resulting in serious injuries, according to a NSW Resources Regulator report.

The mine and access road experienced a storm on 24 December 2016, with heavy rain and hail contributing to poor driving and road conditions. The worker had completed his shift and left the site in his private vehicle, travelling with a co-worker.

The report said heavy rain and hail led to slippery conditions and poor visibility, and the driver lost control of the vehicle.

It was impaled on the gate, while the worker suffered a broken ankle.

The gate travelled between the worker’s legs and collided with the cushion of the bucket seat he was sitting on. The gate continued into the rear of the cabin, stopping at the backseat. The impact and momentum caused the vehicle to roll onto the passenger side, crushing a road sign.

The passenger was able to climb out of the overturned vehicle and other workers, who were leaving the mine, came to assist. The driver was left sitting on the metal gate, with his leg trapped in the cabin.

A Mine Safety inspector responded to the incident and undertook a range of investigation activities. The mine operator is cooperating with the investigation.

The report is available in a PDF format.