Released Monday, May 7, 2001

MINE RESCUE TEAMS TO STAGE MOCK MINE DISASTER IN GREEN RIVER, WYOMING


The mine rescue team representing the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), along with mine rescue teams from OCI of Wyoming, L.P. and General Chemical Corp., will participate in a simulated mine emergency exercise, May 8, 9 and 10, 2001, in Green River, Wyo.

   Mine Emergency Response Development (MERD) exercises enable miners to practice and sharpen their rescue skills in the event of a real mine emergency, such as a fire, explosion or cave-in.

   Surface exercises will take place May 8 and 9, and the mock mine disaster will move underground May 10.

   OCI of Wyoming, L.P. and General Chemical, Corp. are among five mining operations in southwestern Wyoming that produce trona, or soda ash.

   OCI is a six-time winner of the National Metal and Nonmetal Mine Rescue Contest, generally featuring more than 40 mine rescue teams from around the country.

Schedule of MERD Exercises

May 8, 9:	7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (two locations) Expedition Island Pavilion FMC Archery Barn at FMC Park
May 10:	8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (underground) OCI of Wyoming, L.P.

NOTE: Media wishing to go underground must contact Gary Gomez, a safety specialist with OCI at (307) 870-4304.

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