The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) strives to improve safety standards within the coal and mineral mining industry of Virginia.

The Division of Mines, a division of DMME, has developed a multi-faceted approach to training.

One of the Division's principle functions is to assure compliance with State generated mine regulations through utilization of an inspector staff. Also mine related certifications and standards are necessary to assure a certain competency among key personnel within the industry. Certification training is required and is provided in many areas, including:

• gas detection;
• electrical certification and recertification;
• diesel; and
• advanced first-aid.

HALT (Hazard Alert Live Tomorrow) is the title of a series of mine safety information materials that was developed to distribute new, innovative ideas, information, statistical data, and training materials developed by the DMME. The HALT information is developed using Virginia's most current research and accident information.

Training is available includes classes or materials relating to:

• 30 CFR Parts 46 and 48 Annual Refresher Training (Underground and Surface)
• Mine Foreman Pocket Handbook;
• HALT Safety Alert Posters;
• HALT Topics of the Month for Safety Talks;
• 30 CFR Parts 75 and 77 for Supervisors;
• 30 CFR Parts 46 and 48 New Miner Training (Underground and Surface);
• 30 CFR Annual Refresher Training for Independent Contractors;
• Prevention of Silicosis; and
• Certification Training.

The Division of Mines provides an intense on-site education and training of the states coal miners through the Accident Reduction Program (ARP). The staff of training specialists works directly with mine operators, workers and independent contractors at their work stations to identify, analyze and eliminate unsafe acts and habits, unsafe mining conditions and practices.

In response to the 1994 Virginia Mine Safety Act the Director of the Division of Mineral Mining (DMM), based on certain factors which assess a mine's particular risk, conducts inspections at underground and surface mineral mines. The Division of Mineral Mining (DMM) also offers a comprehensive, quality, results-oriented education and training service for the mineral mining industry in Virginia.

For more program information contact Mr. Carroll Green at (276) 523-8232 or e-mail Carroll.Green@dmme.virginia.gov.