Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA): A Pictorial Walk Through the 20th Century

U.S. Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Protecting Miners' Safety and Health Since 1978

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A Pictorial Walk Through
the 20^th Century

"Early Mine Rescue Vehicles"

Dr. Joseph A. Holmes was appointed the first director of the Bureau of Mines by President Taft in 1910. Dr. Holmes is credited with making popular the slogan "safety first," and was responsible for many major improvements in mine safety.

Dr. Holmes negotiated for the donation of four railroad cars from the Pullman Company for use in mine rescue work at a time when the Bureau of Mines budget would not permit their purchase. Under Holmes direction, Pullman prepared the cars for mine rescue operations and they were put on continuous standby for mine emergencies.

Dr. Joseph A. Holmes
"Father of Mine Safety"


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