Mine Safety Expert Discusses Negligent Blast Safety Protocols in Flyrock Accident

ByJoseph O'Neill

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Updated onOctober 13, 2017

Mine Safety Expert Discusses Negligent Blast Safety Protocols in Flyrock Accident

This case involves an individual who was seriously and permanently injured while participating in a blasting procedure at an open-pit copper mine Utah. At the time of the incident in question, the man was operating a large dump truck used to remove ore and rubble from the mine pit. Due to confusion over the timing of the scheduled blast, as well as allegedly improper blast area security protocols, the man was operating the truck in an area that was directly exposed to the effects of the blast. When the blast was set off, the truck was pelted with a large amount of flyrock. As a result of flyrock impact on the truck’s cabin, the man suffered a number of serious physical injuries as well as ongoing psychological damage.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Do you have extensive experience with the US Mine Safety & Health Administration?

2. Please explain your experience working on similar cases?

3. Do you have experience working with individuals who have suffered similar work related injuries?

Expert Witness Response E-039123

inline imageMy experience with MSHA and Mine Safety spans 35+ years. I have worked with top MSHA administrators, technical experts, trainers and inspectors on safety and health issues and programs since 1979. I recently worked on a non-fatal injury incident case where the plaintiff suffered both physical and psychological injury. Our company analyzed the scene on-site, gathered the necessary facts, and prepared a report that was favorably received by the plaintiff's attorney. I have experience with two additional cases involving injuries in and around mines. While none of the cases I have worked on have involved flyrock/blasting, I am very familiar with blasting site security and safety, as well as the hazards of flyrock. Along with a colleague, I have published a refereed article on the subject of flyrock safety in a major academic journal focused on safety science.

About the author

Joseph O'Neill

Joseph O'Neill

Joe has extensive experience in online journalism and technical writing across a range of legal topics, including personal injury, meidcal malpractice, mass torts, consumer litigation, commercial litigation, and more. Joe spent close to six years working at Expert Institute, finishing up his role here as Director of Marketing. He has considerable knowledge across an array of legal topics pertaining to expert witnesses. Currently, Joe servces as Owner and Demand Generation Consultant at LightSail Consulting.

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