The Mine Safety and Health Administration is organized into the nine major program areas listed here. Use the links below to learn about each program area’s role within MSHA, find program area-specific contact information, and access related resources.
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health
Plans, directs, and administers MSHA's activities, and includes the Office of Program Education and Outreach Services.
Mine Safety and Health Enforcement
Conducts mine inspections, investigations, and training programs through 3 regions and a network of district and field offices.
Program Evaluation and Information Resources
Conducts internal reviews and follow-ups and evaluates the effectiveness of agency programs; collects, analyzes and publishes mining injury and illness data; supports and provides training for all MSHA automated information systems, data communications networks and computer equipment.
Administration and Management
Oversees the administrative operations of MSHA, including budget, payroll, hiring, procurement and other functions.
Technical Support
Provides engineering and technical aid, approves equipment and materials for safe mining use, and assists in mine emergencies and accident investigations. Technical Support operates major facilities in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Educational Policy and Development
Administers MSHA’s training programs. At the Academy Home Page, training is conducted on a variety of mine health and safety topics for safety and health specialists from government, industry and labor. Through the Educational Field and Small Mine Services Division, training-related assistance is provided to mine operators throughout the country.
Standards, Regulations, and Variances
Coordinates the development and issuance of safety and health rules and the revision of existing rules, continually involving the public in the process. The office also coordinates MSHA's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) program.
Assessments
Assesses and collects civil penalties for violations of the Mine Act and of mine safety and health standards; administers MSHA’s Special Investigations Program; manages MSHA' s enhanced enforcement strategies including the Pattern of Violations (POV) Program; and administers MSHA' s accountability program.