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MSHA News Release: [02/17/2004]
Contact Name: Suzy Bohnert
Phone Number: (202) 693-9420

Free Mine Safety Workshops Available in 38 States and Puerto Rico

ARLINGTON, Va.—The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) will be conducting free mine safety workshops for miners, mine operators, and supervisors in the metal and nonmetal sectors. The workshops will be offered in 38 states and Puerto Rico from February through March.

“Warmer spring weather brings changes for the mining industry, and the “Spring Thaw” workshops will provide miners and operators with important mine safety advice, suggestions and ideas on avoiding mining hazards,” said Dave D. Lauriski, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health.

The workshops will focus on effective safety and health systems, safe maintenance and repair activities, and the hazards associated with restarting intermittent mining operations. Workshop leaders, many of whom come from mining operations, will discuss mining hazards that are characteristic in certain regions of the country and will include best solutions recognized to eliminate those hazards and create a culture of safety within the mining industry.

“We are proud to have the assistance of one of our partners in mine safety, the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA), in this effort,” Lauriski added. “This partner shares our goal of sending each and every miner home safe and healthy after each shift.” The NSSGA signed an agreement with MSHA last year to be a partner in promoting improved miner health and safety nationwide.

The workshops require no advance registration. To view the workshop schedule on the Internet, go to www.msha.gov. Under the quick links heading, click on upcoming events.

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