MSHA set to begin training mine, quarry operators

The Mine Safety and Health Administration under the U.S Department of Labor will be starting their training program for all mine or quarry operators in the CNMI tomorrow.

According to Educational Policy and Development national manager Kevin Deel, MSHA’s Educational Field and Small Mine Services Group will be conducting training sessions to help mine operators, contractors and miners learn the requirements of the Mine Act, 30 Code of Federal Regulations (30CFR) and what they need to do to ensure their mines are in compliance.

“A comprehensive training program that involves classes over a two-week period has been developed for the U.S. Pacific Territories mine/quarry and aggregate workers,” Deel said.

The first module for Week 1 will consist of three days of comprehensive training to educate mine operators and contractors on how to become compliant with MSHA regulations. Classes will include training in Federal Code of Regulations, Mine Act, Program Policy Manual, Work Place Examinations, Competent Person Duties and Responsibilities, Hazard Recognition, Highwall and Spoil Bank Safety, Task Training Guarding, Safety Programs, and personal protective equipment.

“This week is designed for training mine operators, mine mangers, supervisors, safety personnel and trainers. This is where you will learn what you need to know to operate a quarry/mine or a facility in compliance with federal regulations and to conduct proper training of miners,” Deel said.

Module 1 will be discussed from today, April 6, to Friday, April 8.

For Week 2, the second module will be tackled and will consist of three days of Train the Trainer Classes. It is designed for people interested in conducting training of miners.

Module 2 will be discussed from April 11 to 13.

All classes will be held at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe from 8am to 4:30pm.

MSHA said there is no cost for any training and operators may bring as many participants as they wish.

Those from Guam that needs this training are also welcome to join the training on Saipan.

“I encourage all mine operators, mine managers, supervisors, safety personnel and trainers to attend the three day of comprehensive training session. This will be the most important training you will receive. You cannot expect to be in compliance with MSHA’s Regulations at your quarry/mine or facility sites unless you know MSHA’s Law Regulation and Policy, 30 Code of Federal Regulations, MSHA’s Policy and Procedure Manual and The Mine Act.,” Deel said.

“You cannot properly train miners unless you know MSHAs regulations and policies. This will be the only training before Compliance Assistance visits which will begin soon,” he added.

MSHA will begin inspection activities for all mine/quarry sites within the Pacific Territories Region on Oct. 1, 2016.