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MSHA News Release: [03/12/2007]
Contact Name: Amy Louviere or Dirk Fillpot
Phone Number: (202) 693-9423 or x9406
Release Number: 07-0365-NAT

MSHA Conducting Free Mine Safety Seminars Nationwide

‘Spring Thaw’ sessions examine hazards caused by seasonal changes

ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), in cooperation with the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association, is conducting mine safety seminars nationwide to address special hazards associated with the onset of warmer weather. The seminars are free and require no advance registration.

"Warmer weather brings about changes for the mining industry, and the purpose of these seminars is to assist miners and mine operators in avoiding weather-related hazards," said Richard E. Stickler, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health. "MSHA is working closely with the stone, sand and gravel industries to help keep workers safe on the job."

During upcoming "Spring Thaw" seminars, MSHA personnel, along with safety and health professionals from various mining companies, will focus on effective safety and health programs, safe maintenance and repair activities, and the hidden costs of mining accidents. The seminars also will spotlight safety hazards specific to particular regions of the country.

The timing of the seminars coincides with the end of winter, when many intermittently-operated mines resume production, often with recent hires new to the mining environment. Statistics show that accidents at stone, sand and gravel operations tend to increase during April and May.

For a complete schedule of seminars, please visit MSHA's Web site at www.msha.gov, go to quick links on the left and click on District Pages.