labor lawAdivision of labor law center

Concern for Vermont worker safety is at the heart of a new warning issued recently. The Mine Safety and Health Administration, part of the US Department of Labor, wants everyone to know that mines can be dangerous. A new public safety campaign warns the public to “Stay Out — Stay Alive.” This campaign aims to educate workers and recreational enthusiasts that trespassing on mine property can be dangerous.

Sadly, since 1999, over 200 people have died in accidents related to mines. Those accidents often involved outdoor enthusiasts and children. Abandoned and active mines alike pose a threat. Children will sometimes sneak onto mine property to play. In other cases, workers from industries not related to mining have fallen into mine shafts or in some other way experienced an accident on mine property.

According to Richard E. Stickler, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health, “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.’”

Consider the numbers. In 2006 alone, mine-related accidents claimed the lives of at least 30 people. These individuals ranged in age from 17 to 51 and were all killed in underground or surface mine operations. The “Stay Out — Stay Alive” campaign involves state and federal agencies, along with businesses, private organizations, and individuals. This is the ninth year this campaign has been used to raise public awareness of the dangers.

To get the message out, the program warns against the hazards posed by trespassing on mine property. This message is conveyed via public service announcements. In addition, health workers and mine safety professionals from the federal government will talk to scouting groups, schools, and other organizations so that young people learn that mines can be dangerous.

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