The second annual effort to focus on miners’ safety is coming up on Wednesday.

MSHA’s “Stand Down to Save Lives“ aims to encourage the industry to take steps to prevent fatalities and injuries.

Compared to this time last year, there have been 12 fewer fatalities. There’s been 7 so far this year.

Assistant Secretary Chris Williamson still believes one is one too many. And he’s asking the mining community to be vigilant on identifying and eliminating hazards.

“It takes us all rowing in the same direction, to have the biggest impact. I think people saw the troubling trend from last year. And now there’s more effort, and more resources being dedicated,” he shared.

It’s also about long term health, and preventing the development of occupational diseases.

Two new rules have been finalized by MSHA, including one about silica exposure.

“Rules are only as effective if they are implemented well, and enforced,” Williamson added.

MSHA leaders like Williamson and others will be making visits to mines across the country on Wednesday.

For more information: https://www.msha.gov/stand-down-save-lives