Health & Safety

Mission

The UMWA Health and Safety Department is an integral part of the United Mine Workers of America’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of its members in various workplaces. Since its establishment in 1890, this department has been steadfast in its mission to prevent injuries, fatalities, and occupational illnesses from affecting union members while they are on the job.

Over the course of 126 years, the UMWA has been an advocate for occupational health and safety, consistently pushing Congress to enact and enhance legislation that safeguards the welfare of workers. This unyielding dedication has led to significant advancements in workplace safety standards across various industries. The union’s efforts extend far beyond mining, encompassing a diverse range of occupations including manufacturing, healthcare, corrections, and public employment.

Today, the worksites represented by the UMWA stand out as some of the safest in both the United States and Canada. This achievement is a testament to the ongoing commitment of the union to ensure the safety and well-being of its members in every sector. Workers can take solace in the fact that they have a dedicated advocate in the UMWA, constantly working to improve safety standards and prevent accidents in their workplaces.

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    Latest News & Media View All ›

    'If he's a Democrat, than I'm Batman:' UMWA president blasts Blankenship candidacy

    SOURCE: WV NEWS JANUARY 29, 2024   CHARLESTON, W.V.a. (WV News) — The latest candidate to join the race to…

    MSHA Announces Proposed Silica Standard for Miners

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    Government, advocates eye new federal silica-dust standard to stem resurgence among coal miners

    Date: 9/24/2023 Author: JUSTIN VELLUCCI Photos: SHANE DUNLAP Tribune-Review   Mark Rankin left the coal mines, but the coal mines…

    UMWA Comments on Incident at Warrior Met Number 4 Mine

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUGUST 31, 2023   UMWA Comments on Incident at Warrior Met Number 4 Mine [TRIANGLE, VA] Commenting…

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    Roberts C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act

    The Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act would improve mine safety and close glaring loopholes in our nation’s mine safety laws that could help save miners’ lives.

    Moreover, it would make it more difficult for corporate management to put profits and production ahead of the safety of miners.

    Click here to read about the details behind this bill. 

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    The Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act would improve mine safety and close glaring loopholes in our nation’s mine safety laws that could help save miners’ lives.

    Moreover, it would make it more difficult for corporate management to put profits and production ahead of the safety of miners.

    Click here to read about the details behind this bill. 

    More ›

    Training Opportunities

    The UMWA offers a variety of specialized training to our members. They range from miners’ surface and underground safety committee training, electrical re-certification, OSHA 10 and 30 hour training, and correctional officer training. Click here for more information about upcoming training courses.

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    The UMWA offers a variety of specialized training to our members. They range from miners’ surface and underground safety committee training, electrical re-certification, OSHA 10 and 30 hour training, and correctional officer training. Click here for more information about upcoming training courses.

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    Become a UMWA Activist!

    Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

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    Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

    More ›