MSHA Safety Training – 5 Things You May Not Know

MSHA’s (Mine Safety and Health Administration’s) mission is to safeguard the health and safety of miners. Their goal is to help mining industry players develop quality training programs and strict standards in order to ensure people’s health and overall safety around mines. MSHA certification forms part of this initiative, along with efforts to modernize training through close collaboration with industry players and stakeholders.

The safety of mineworkers, as well as the protection of equipment and preventing downtime, is an essential and continual endeavor that must be given priority for the safety of mine workers across the US to avoid workplace hazards.

The United States Department of Labor states that “Federal law requires that all miners receive basic and annual refresher training, and that all mine operators maintain an effective training plan. MSHA provides materials, guidance, and hands-on assistance to help miners and operators meet their training obligations and more.” 

What is the difference between MSHA Requirements Part 46 and Part 48?

Training requirements are governed by sections of the federal code – 30 CFR Part 48 and Part 46.

Part 46 covers the aggregate industry including sand, granite, lime, cement, and lime. Part 48 covers every area of underground mining and surface mining of some metals, like gold, and the mining of coal. 

The key differences between Part 46 and Part 48 are trainer certification requirements. Part 48 trainers must be approved by MSHA and their instructor certification is kept on file by the agency. Part 46 trainers are not required to have MSHA approval but must be deemed competent persons by the mine operator. Training plans for Part 48 mines must be approved by MSHA; Part 46 training plans do not require MSHA approval as long as they meet the requirements of the rule.

Where can I find more information about MSHA training plans?
The United States Department of Labor website is a great resource for information on developing a training plan. This information can easily be found under the “Training and Education” tab.

Where can I obtain MSHA annual refresher training?
Impact Safety offers a refresher msha certification training class that is recommended for miners with an MSHA certification to help update their knowledge and skills on MSHA standards and regulations. View our training calendar or call (706) 790-6828 today for registration information.

Where can I request a MSHA Mine ID?
You can request mine identification numbers by visiting MSHA’s website, clicking on “file online” and completing Form 7000-51 or by contacting your local district office.

** All mine operations are required to apply for a MSHA mine identification number. A contractor cannot request a MSHA mine ID. An MSHA ID is required for each mine site and must be issued before any operations begin.

Where can I request a MSHA Contractor ID?
Contractor ID’s may be requested by visiting MSHA’s website, clicking on “7000-52” to start the Contractor ID for a contractor, and completing Form 7000-52.

Impact Safety offers MSHA certification courses covering Parts 46 and 48 mines. Impact Safety’s New Miner Course is a 3-day course designed to teach entry-level information about MSHA’s hazard awareness for mining sites. It offers general safety knowledge for working around mining sites—required training for any person engaged in mining operations, whether it be developing, blasting, drilling, extracting, crushing, milling, sizing, or screening materials within a mine. This training is also for maintenance and service workers that work around and on mining equipment frequently or on extended periods, as well as for construction workers exposed to similar hazards. New miners, as well as newly hired experienced miners, are required a minimum of 24-hours of training for basic safety within the first 90 days of their employment. Contact us today to learn more.