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 ›

    House Committee Advances Bill to Block New Silica Dust Rule

      [caption id="attachment_24668" align="alignnone" width="453"] On September 24th President Roberts, Secretary-Treasurer Sanson and UMWA members were on Capitol Hill demanding…

    UMWA Safety Experts Investigate Oak Grove Mine Tragedy After Loss of Miner

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 25, 2024   [TRIANGLE, VA.] United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E.…

    UMWA President Responds to Tragic Iran Mine Explosion, Calls for Global Mine Safety Reforms

                  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 UMWA President Responds to Tragic Iran Mine…

    Fighting for Black Lung Benefits for Miners and Families

    The National Coalition of Black Lung & Respiratory Disease Clinics, Inc. held its annual Black Lung conference at Pipestem Resort…

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    MSHA Silica Standard

    This Act will prevent death, illness, and injury from mining and promote safe and healthful workplaces for miners. Respirable crystalline silica (also known as silica dust or quartz dust) is a common occupational hazard for coal and metal/nonmetal (MNM) miners. Silica dust is generated by mining activities, including cutting, sanding, drilling, crushing, grinding, sawing, scraping, jackhammering, excavating, and hauling materials that contain silica. Silica dust also mixes with other dusts created during mining, such as coal dust, to create an increased risk of illness and death. Inhalation of silica dust, a carcinogen, puts miners at risk for developing illnesses that are chronic, irreversible, and potentially fatal.

    Click here to read a Fact Sheet about the new silica standard.

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    This Act will prevent death, illness, and injury from mining and promote safe and healthful workplaces for miners. Respirable crystalline silica (also known as silica dust or quartz dust) is a common occupational hazard for coal and metal/nonmetal (MNM) miners. Silica dust is generated by mining activities, including cutting, sanding, drilling, crushing, grinding, sawing, scraping, jackhammering, excavating, and hauling materials that contain silica. Silica dust also mixes with other dusts created during mining, such as coal dust, to create an increased risk of illness and death. Inhalation of silica dust, a carcinogen, puts miners at risk for developing illnesses that are chronic, irreversible, and potentially fatal.

    Click here to read a Fact Sheet about the new silica standard.

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    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 ›