labor lawAdivision of labor law center

Many people may have questions about how the new mine safety campaign will impact Pennsylvania worker safety.

What is the new safety campaign?
The Mine Safety and Health Administration, part of the US Department of Labor, has started the campaign in an effort to inform the public of the potential dangers that can be encountered on working and abandoned mine property. The campaign is called “Stay Out — Stay Alive” to remind recreational enthusiasts and workers that they should stay away from mine properties.

Have a lot of people been injured on mine properties?
Since 1999, over 200 people have died as a result of accidents on mine properties. Children and outdoor enthusiasts have been among those who died. In addition, workers from industries other than mining also have been injured and died. When children trespass onto mine property to play or workers wander onto the property, they can encounter unexpected dangers.

What kind of dangers do mines pose?
In the case of an underground mine, explorers or workers may not notice a shaft if it is hidden. These shafts often drop several hundred feet. In addition, sometimes debris covers the shafts so untrained workers or explorers may not see them. Also, mine tunnels can collapse, or they may be filled with poisonous gases.

What does the Mine Safety and Health Administration hope the campaign accomplishes?
According to the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health, Richard E. Stickler,
“There are about 500,000 abandoned mines and another 14,000 active operations throughout the United States. Many of them contain hidden hazards and, for those not trained to work in mines, the outcome can be deadly. That’s why we urge workers, hikers, bikers, rock hounds and swimmers to ‘Stay Out — Stay Alive.’”

What will the “Stay Out — Stay Alive” campaign do?
Speakers will address organizations, including scouting groups and schools, to warn of the dangers young people can encounter on mine property. In addition, the campaign will use public service announcements to broadcast the message.

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