Hand Tools - Slate Bars

Two commonly used mining tools - slate bars and hammers - account for many injuries involving hand tools.

Slate bars, which miners use to dig dirt, pry large rocks, and tamp soil, account for almost one-quarter of all hand tool accidents in mines. The most common accident occurs when the bar slips from the miner's hands, which can result in deep gashes and punctures, lost and broken teeth, broken bones, and concussions. The second most common accident is body strain resulting from using the bar to pry.

Miners can avoid most of these accidents by remembering the following:

• If prying something heavy, get help.
• Get good footing, and avoid working in awkward positions.
• Anticipate when something might "break free," and be prepared.
• Avoid using slate bars when your gloves are wet, oily, or greasy.
• Use the proper tool for the job. Never use drill steels or bolts in place of a bar.

To learn more about MSHA Part 48 training requirements visit our MSHA Part 48 Subpart B Surface Mining Online Training web page.