U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978 |
www.msha.gov |
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MSHA's Statutory Functions
The Mine Act provides that MSHA inspectors shall inspect each surface mine at least 2 times a year and each underground mine at least 4 times a year (seasonal or intermittent operations are inspected less frequently) to determine whether there is compliance with health and safety standards or with any citation, order, or decision issued under the Mine Act and whether an imminent danger exists. If violations of safety or health standards are found, inspectors will issue citations to the mine operators. During fiscal year 2000, MSHA conducted approximately 20,000 regular mandatory inspections at the Nation's 15,000 surface and underground mines. MSHA performs other important mandatory activities under the Mine Act. These include, but are not limited to:
Other activities that support the mandates of the Mine Act include:
MSHA's inspection presence does not, by itself, result in violation-free mines. MSHA therefore encourages voluntary compliance with the Mine Act through training, technical assistance, and other nonenforcement activities. |
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Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) 1100 Wilson Boulevard, 21st Floor Arlington, VA 22209-3939 |
Phone:
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