Welcome to the mining industry. As you embark on your new vocation, we at your local Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) District 5 Office would like to wish you a safe and rewarding career. Our purpose is to promote the safety and health of all coal miners in the state of Virginia. District 5 has three MSHA offices; one is located in Norton, one in Richlands and one in Grundy. The purpose of this letter is to help you to get to know us, provide you with some information about our industry and to encourage you to contact us with any questions or safety concerns.

The U.S. Labor Department's Mine Safety and Health Administration helps to reduce deaths, injuries, and illnesses in the nation's mines with a variety of activities and programs. The agency develops and enforces safety and health rules applying to all U.S. mines, investigates accidents and complaints, helps mine operators who have special compliance problems, and makes available technical, educational and other types of assistance. MSHA works cooperatively with industry, labor, and other Federal and state agencies toward improving safety and health conditions for all miners.

Since the earliest days of mining, the job of digging coal and other useful materials out of the earth has been considered one of the world's most dangerous occupations. Public concern about the toll of deaths, injuries and destruction in mine accidents has prompted passage of much-needed safety legislation and intensified the search for safer methods and improved training practices and technology. Growing cooperation among industry, labor and government also has contributed to making mining safer and more healthful, especially in recent years. As a result of these initiatives, mining deaths and injuries have significantly declined over the years.

All new miners have a unique opportunity to get a fresh start in doing the right thing. Technology, information, training and methods are better today than ever. It is important to get good quality training and develop safe work habits from the beginning. Following proper procedures will greatly improve your ability to be a safe productive member of the mining community. Contact your local MSHA office or phone toll-free 1-800-746-1553 if you have questions or concerns about mine safety.

In conclusion, "Think before you act, when in doubt ask questions, and don’t take shortcuts to get a job done". Obeying all mining regulations and proper work procedures will enhance your capacity to maintain good health throughout your working life.

-Ray McKinney


Some Items of Interest

• Why Miners Get Old



• Virginia's Essential Investment



• "Be a Big Brother" Poster