The Hidden Dangers of Hauling in Mining: Safety Is Not Optional

“Hauling isn’t just about moving materials it’s about managing risks and saving lives.”

In mining operations, hauling—the transportation of materials such as coal, nickel, ore, or overburden—is a critical and continuous activity. However, it is also one of the most hazard-prone jobs on a mining site.

This article highlights the key hazards associated with hauling and how to prevent them through effective health and safety practices.

🔍 What Is Hauling in Mining?

Hauling refers to the process of transporting materials from the mining area to stockpiles, processing plants, or disposal sites. It typically involves heavy equipment such as dump trucks, articulated dump trucks (ADTs), and large trailers.

⚠️ Major Hazards in Hauling Operations

1. Mine Traffic Accidents

Large trucks operate on narrow, steep, or slippery mine roads, increasing the risk of:

• Rollovers

• Collisions between heavy equipment

• Brake failure on slopes

• Blind spot incidents hitting ground personnel

2. Operator Fatigue

Long working hours, heat, and repetitive tasks can cause fatigue, leading to:

• Slower reaction time

• Microsleep or loss of focus

• Poor decision-making in critical situations

3. Dangerous Haul Roads

Unstable or poorly maintained roads may result in:

• Slipping and skidding

• Accidents on sharp curves or soft shoulders

• Road subsidence under heavy loads

4. Mechanical Failures

Inadequate inspections or poor maintenance can cause:

• Tire blowouts from overload

• Brake or steering system failures

• Hydraulic malfunction during unloading

✅ Safety Measures and K3 Best Practices

🏗️ Engineering Controls

• Proper haul road design (width, slope, curve radius)

• Speed limits and road signs at critical points

• One-way traffic and priority lanes to prevent collisions

📋 Administrative Controls

• Work shifts that allow proper rest

• Regular safety training for equipment operators

• Updated and enforced hauling SOPs

👷 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Reflective vest, hard hat, safety boots

• Radio communication between units

• Mandatory seatbelt use in all hauling vehicles

🧾 Monitoring and Evaluation

• Daily pre-operation equipment checks

• Surveillance using cameras or drones

• Early warning systems for speed, load, and operator fatigue

🧨 Real Case: A Fatal Hauling Incident

“An ADT operator was killed when his truck rolled over at a sharp bend due to brake failure and the absence of roadside barriers.”

This tragic case highlights the importance of proper equipment inspection, safe road infrastructure, and training for difficult maneuvers.

💡 Conclusion

Hauling operations in mining are inherently high-risk, but with strict and consistent Health and Safety (K3) implementation, incidents can be minimized.

Worksafe Indonesia urges all mining companies to embed safety into their work culture, not just comply with the rules.

Worksafe Indonesia – Keep Safe, Be Safe !!
Your Partner in Safety Training, Haul Road Design, Equipment Audits, and K3 Signage.

📞 Contact us:
🌐 www.worksafeindonesia.com
📧 septianindra@worksafeindonesia.com
📱 +62 812-1514-0063