Today MSHA conducted one of its quarterly stakeholder meetings via phone and posted this PowerPoint presentation to review the 2021 Fatalities so far. A link will be provided if, as usual, MSHA posts an audio recording of the event.
Click here for: PowerPoint Presentation (pdf)
Today is Worker’s Memorial Day, the day we remember those worker’s who have lost their life doing their daily work. MSHA posted this memorial including six from this year. Visit our Fatality Dashboard to see information on all 2020 and 2021 mine fatalities.
MSHA has issued guidance intended for miners and operators in coal, metal, or nonmetal mines to help them identify risks of being exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, at work and to help them determine appropriate control measures to reduce such risk. This guidance contains recommendations, as well as descriptions of mandatory safety and health standards. It is not a standard or regulation, and it creates no new legal obligations. The recommendations are advisory in nature, informational in content, and are intended to assist operators in recognizing and abating hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm from the spread of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) as part of their obligation to provide a safe and healthful mine.
Operators should implement COVID-19 Prevention Programs at each mine. Operators may consider a stand-alone program or additions to existing training and education programs. The most effective programs engage miners and miner representatives in the program’s development, and include the following key elements:
The traditional Spring Thaws held around the country are virtual this year so you may be able to attend them even if they aren’t in your area. Spring Thaws are held by mining industry hosts to:
• increase awareness and recognition of mining hazards.
• improve hazard correction.
• encourage safe work practices.
At these events, safety professionals from mining and equipment companies, associations, and the Mine Safety and Health Administration share information on a range of mining hazards. While MSHA does not sponsor these events, they encourage miners to take advantage of those offered in your area, in-person or virtual.
You can see the schedule on MSHA’s web site here.