Report: Procedures Not Followed In Quarry Accident

WOODSBORO, Md. (AP) -- Federal mine safety officials say safety procedures were not followed when a Frederick County quarry worker was killed when he was pulled out of machinery he was working on and under two crusher chutes.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration report on the December accident at S. W. Barrick & Sons' Woodsboro facility also found that the alarm that should warn that the belt is starting was not working.

Investigators found that 35-year-old John Gaither of Woodsboro entered the machinery without making sure the belt was off and locked, and management didn't make sure he was clear before starting the belt.

Officials say workers have been retrained on lock-out procedures and management will ensure they are followed. Also, the alarm was repaired.

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