Hazardous Working Conditions

The mining industry presents hazardous working conditions to both new and current miners. Because of this, MSHA requires specialized safety training to teach miners hazard and accident minimization, how to protect themselves and others in emergency situations, and how to facilitate MSHA compliance.

Independent contractors working on mine property must comply with the requirements of Part 48 A/B. This includes developing their own training plan that meets the minimum requirements of Part 48 A/B and providing appropriate training.

First time workers must complete a minimum of 24 hours of training within their first 90 days of employment, 4 hours of which must be completed prior to beginning work at the mine. Everyone employed at surface shell dredging or the following surface mines must complete MHSA Part 48 A/B training: