Highwall Rock Fall Kills Miner Operating Drill
MSHA recommends highwall examinations, scaling, benches and falling-object protection for mobile equipment.
- By Danielle Naidu
- Sep 11, 2026
A miner died Aug. 24 after rocks fell from a highwall and struck him while he was operating a drill, according to a fatality alert from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
Following the incident, MSHA advised mine operators to examine highwalls before work or travel begins nearby. Examinations should be conducted more frequently when ground conditions warrant, particularly after rain, freezing or thawing.
The agency recommended examining highwalls from the bottom, sides and top or crest. Mine operators should look for cracks and other geological features that could indicate instability.
MSHA also advised scaling highwalls from a safe location to remove loose or unconsolidated rocks and overhangs. Benches should be installed to reduce exposure to falling material, with enough width for the equipment used during routine clearing or scaling.
Mobile equipment operating near highwalls should have falling-object protective structures.
About the Author
Danielle Naidu is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.