Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations News Release

Bob Holden
Governor

Catherine B. Leapheart
Director

Tammy Cavender
Public Information Coordinator

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:  Tammy Cavender (573) 751-7500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  January 23, 2004

ZERO FATALITIES IN MISSOURI’S METAL AND NONMETAL MINING SECTOR

Jefferson City, MO – Missouri’s metal and nonmetal mining sector ended 2003 with zero fatalities, a major achievement in the mining industry.  Fatalities in the nation’s metal and nonmetal mining sector was 26, a drop from 40 in 2002.

According to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), mining-related fatalities decreased 18 percent from 2002 to 2003.  This is the third consecutive year of decreased fatalities for the mining industry.  Missouri, with our diverse mineral deposits, leads the nation in lead and zinc production.  The state has approximately 456 metal and non-metal mines to extract the various ores.  “Mine owners work very hard to maintain a safe and healthy work environment for miners.  It’s a pleasure to see such positive results from their efforts,” said Steve Dunn, program manager for the Missouri Mine and Cave Safety and Health Program.

The Missouri Mine and Cave Safety and Health Program trains miners in the practice of implementing safe and healthy working habits on the job.  The program also regularly inspects mines and public caves under Missouri law, and provides a consultation service to the mines and caves on safety and health issues.  The program is one of two major workplace safety programs offered by the Division of Labor Standards.  For additional information regarding the Mine and Cave Safety and Health Program, or other workplace safety questions, please call (573) 751-3403.