Mobile Equipment

Mobile equipment is the category given to machines that exist to traverse terrain. Haulage vehicles exist to carry mining material from place to place. Service trucks, such as tankers, also transport fuel and water around the mine, and front-end loaders and tractors travel around frequently.

However, while some machines, like cranes, may have the capability to reposition themselves under their own power, this is not part of their purpose. Therefore, cranes are not typically considered mobile equipment.

Mobile equipment is dangerous because being struck by a moving vehicle is a leading cause of death at surface mines. The routine of driving back and forth can cause some drivers to pay less attention. Hurried schedules can put pressure on drivers to drive too fast, cut corners, and take risks. Mobile devices can cause distractions. Miners must not fall into these traps. They must also be conscious of what is going on around them so they can stay safe from mobile equipment hazards.

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