The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and illnesses in the nation's mines through a variety of activities and programs. The agency develops and enforces safety and health rules for all mines under U.S. jurisdiction, including those in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Pacific territories such as American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). MSHA provides technical, educational, and other types of assistance to mine operators and works cooperatively with industry, labor, and other federal and state agencies to improve safety and health conditions for all miners throughout the United States and its territories.
Mission
Learn about MSHA’s role in promoting mine safety and health in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and its Pacific territories, and see how the mining industry has made significant strides in reducing mining fatalities during the 20th century.
Leadership
Program Areas
MSHA is organized into the nine major program areas listed below. Learn about the roles of each program area, find program area-specific contact information, and access related resources.
- Office of the Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health
- Mine Safety and Health Enforcement
- Program Evaluation and Information Resources
- Administration and Management
- Technical Support
- Educational Policy and Development
- Standards, Regulations and Variances
- Assessments, Accountability, Special Enforcement and Investigations
Careers
Find MSHA jobs, learn about our Inspector Hiring Program, and view internship opportunities and jobs for recent graduates.
History
Learn about the key legislative milestones that have helped improve mine safety and health in the United States.
Memoranda of Understanding
One of the Secretary of Labor's goals is to secure a safe and healthy workplace, especially at mines. The Secretary will implement this goal by forming agreements with States, local governments, entities that represent these governments, and other federal agencies to consult, coordinate, and exchange information concerning the health and safety of miners. These agreements may include various areas such as training, enforcement, communication, and coordination.