U.S. Department of Labor

Mine Safety and Health 

Administration

November 2016
Table of Contents

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents.......................................................................................................................... ii

TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview .................................................................................. 3

Mission........................................................................................................................................ 3

Authorizing Legislation .............................................................................................................. 3

Organizational Structure ............................................................................................................. 3

Organizational Changes During the Past Eight Years................................................................ 4

Key Leaders................................................................................................................................ 7

TAB 2: 30/60/90 Days – State of Play.......................................................................................... 8

Key Announcements................................................................................................................... 8

Key Meetings.............................................................................................................................. 9

Key Agency Stakeholders......................................................................................................... 10

TAB 3: Initiatives........................................................................................................................ 12

Regulatory and Policy Issues.................................................................................................... 12

Major Grants and Contracts...................................................................................................... 13

Enforcement.............................................................................................................................. 14

Audits and Reports.................................................................................................................... 19

Management.............................................................................................................................. 20

Calendar.................................................................................................................................... 21

TAB 4: Budget............................................................................................................................. 22

TAB 5: Agency Performance ..................................................................................................... 26
TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview

3

TAB 1: AGENCY ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

Mission 

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) works to prevent death, illness, and injury 

from mining and promote safe and healthy workplaces for miners. MSHA develops and 

enforces safety and health standards as a means to eliminate fatal accidents; to reduce the 

frequency and severity of nonfatal accidents; to minimize health hazards; and to promote 

improved safety and health conditions in the Nation's mines.

Authorizing Legislation

MSHA was created in 1978 as a result of the passage of the Federal Mine Safety and Health 

Act of 1977 (Mine Act). The Mine Act transferred responsibility for mine safety and health for 

all coal and metal and nonmetal mines from the Department of the Interior to the Department of 

Labor. 

The Mine Act was amended by The Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 

2006 (MINER Act) in June 2006. It represented the first revision to federal mine safety laws 

since the Mine Act was passed – the most significant mine safety legislation in nearly 30 years. 

The MINER Act builds upon efforts by MSHA to improve mine safety nationwide, and requires 

the modernization of safety practices and development of enhanced communication technology.

Organizational Structure

MSHA is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and is under the direction of the Assistant 

Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health. MSHA is largely a field organization with the 

vast majority (90 percent) of its employees stationed in approximately 100 locations throughout 

the United States, with about 250 employees stationed at the Arlington headquarters. At present, 

MSHA has eleven career Senior Executive Service (SES) positions and one non-career SES 

position. 

MSHA also operates and maintains the National Mine Health and Safety Academy (Academy) in 

Beckley, West Virginia, one of seven federally chartered training academies. The Academy is 

devoted to providing miner safety and health training. Government, industry and labor officials, 

including international delegations, attend the Academy to obtain specialized training in a 

number of mine safety and health subjects ranging from accident investigation to proper roof 

control procedures. The Academy also trains MSHA mine inspectors. The Academy staff 

produces and distributes a variety of training and compliance assistance materials.
TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview

4

Organizational Chart

Deputy Assistant Secretary 

(Policy)

Laura McClintock

Non-Career SES

Office of the Assistant 

Secretary for 

Mine Safety and Health

Joseph Main (PA)

Deputy Assistant Secretary

(Operations)

Patricia Silvey

Career SES

Coal Mine Safety and 

Health

Kevin G. Stricklin

Career SES

Metal and Nonmetal Mine 

Safety and Health

Neal Merrifield

Career SES

Office of Standards, 

Regulations & Variances

Sheila McConnell

Career SES

Technical Support

William Francart

Career SES

Educational Policy & 

Development

Jeffrey Duncan

Career SES

Program Evaluation & 

Information Resources 

Syed Hafeez

Career SES

Office of Assessments

Thomas Charboneau

Career SES

Administration & 

Management

Eugene Hubbard

Career SES

Chief of Staff

Jeannette Galanis

Non-Career

Special Assistant

Erin Davis

Non-Career

Organizational Changes During the Past Eight Years

Realignment of Coal Resources: Due to the decline of coal production, particularly in the 

Appalachian region, MSHA has taken several steps to realign Coal Mine Safety and Health 

(Coal) resources. In 2013, MSHA merged Coal District 1 in northeast Pennsylvania into District 

2 in western Pennsylvania. On October 1, 2016, MSHA will close the District 6 office, which has 

jurisdiction over mines in eastern Kentucky, and transfer enforcement responsibilities to Districts 

5 and 7. To ensure that MSHA maintains a cadre of experienced personnel so that the Agency 

can accomplish its mission and fill critical staffing gaps, MSHA redirected resources from Coal

to Metal and Nonmetal Mine Safety and Health (MNM) and other programs (Educational Policy 

and Development, Technical Support, Program Evaluation and Information Resources, and 

Administration and Management). This allows the Agency to retain an experienced inspectorate 

as well as meet the demands of mining activities in all regions. For example, in FY 2015 and FY 

2016, Coal enforcement personnel supported MNM to achieve its statutory mandated inspections

and to assist in MNM’s Fatality Prevention Initiative.

Improving Compliance Assistance: In 2014, MSHA merged the Educational Field Services 

and the Small Mine Consultation Program to create the Educational Field and Small Mine 

Services program. By creating a single program, MSHA has eliminated duplication, reduced 

costs, and allowed the Agency to provide a single, comprehensive program of education, 
TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview

5

training, and compliance assistance to all mines, regardless of size. This new office has 

increased compliance assistance on implementation of final rules such as the respirable dust rule 

and guidance on agency policies such as a guarding of equipment to improve compliance, and 

initiatives including Rules to Live By that focuses enforcement attention on mining standards 

commonly cited following mining deaths

Office of Assessments: In 2012, MSHA centralized oversight and management of special 

enforcement authorities under a single program, the Office of Assessments. These authorities 

include: identifying mines for a pattern of violations of safety and health standards for enhanced 

enforcement; identifying mines for additional impact inspections; use of Secretary’s injunctive 

authority; use of flagrant violations and special assessments; protection of miners’ rights under 

the Mine act; and support and coordination of potential criminal cases. MSHA also transferred 

the accountability function that ensures MSHA’s enforcement policies and procedures are 

carried out effectively, consistently, and appropriately to the Office of Assessments.
TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview

6

Workforce At-A-Glance
TAB 1: Agency Organizational Overview

7

Key Leaders 

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health

Assistant Secretary (Joseph A. Main, non-career)

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy (Laura McClintock, non-career)

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Operations: (Patricia W. Silvey, career)

Chief of Staff (Jeannette Galanis, non-career)

Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary (Erin Davis, non-career)

Office of Administration and Management

Director: Eugene Hubbard

Deputy Director: Kimberlee Proctor

Office of Assessments

Director: Thomas Charboneau

Deputy Director, Civil Penalties and Assessments: Kelvin Blue

Deputy Director, Special Investigations, Enforcement and Accountability: Alfred Clayborne

Coal Mine Safety and Health

Administrator: Kevin Stricklin

Deputy Administrator: Timothy Watkins

Educational Policy and Development

Director: Jeffrey Duncan

Deputy Director: Krystle Mitchell

Metal and Nonmetal Mine Safety and Health

Acting Administrator: Kevin Stricklin

Deputy Administrator: Marvin Lichtenfels

Program Evaluation and Information Resources

Director: Syed Hafeez

Deputy Director: Li-Tai Bilbao

Office of Standards, Regulations and Variances

Director: Sheila McConnell

Deputy Director: Roslyn Fontaine

Technical Support

Director: William Francart

Deputy Director: Melanie Calhoun
TAB 2: 30/60/90 Days – State of Play

8

TAB 2: 30/60/90 DAYS – STATE OF PLAY

Key Announcements

By end of February 2017

Examinations of Working Places in Metal and NonMetal Mines, Final Rule. MSHA is 

developing a final rule that will enhance the quality of working place examinations in MNM 

mines and help ensure that violations of mandatory health or safety standards are identified and 

corrected, thereby improving protections for miners. MSHA anticipates that this final rule will 

be published in the Federal Register in January 2017 and become effective in March/April 2017.

Closed-Circuit Escape Respirators. A closed-circuit escape respirator (CCER) is a lifesaving 

respiratory device used during mine emergencies. CCERs are known in the mining community 

as Self-Contained Self-Rescuers (SCSRs). CCERs enable miners to escape from atmospheres 

that can be immediately dangerous to health and life. On March 8, 2012, the National Institute 

for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) issued new requirements for the testing and 

approval of CCERs.

On January 4, 2016, NIOSH and MSHA issued the first approval for a respirator that complies 

with NIOSH’s new approval requirements for CCERs, a large-capacity (Cap 3) CCER for use in 

underground coal mining. Manufacturers can continue to manufacture, label, and sell Cap 3 

CCERs approved under the old approval requirements until January 4, 2017. After that date, 

mine operators can only purchase new CCERs that have been approved under NIOSH’s new

approval requirements. However, mine operators may continue to use CCERs approved for use 

under the old approval requirements until the end of the service life of these units, which can 

range from 5 to 15 years. After the service life expires, mine operators must purchase CCERs 

approved under NIOSH’s new approval requirements.

The approved Cap 3 CCER provides at least the same amount of breathable air as previously 

required under NIOSH’s old approval requirements for a similar unit that provided 60 minutes of 

breathable air. However, the newly approved Cap 3 CCERs are large and heavy and cannot be 

carried on a miner’s belt, unlike some the CCERs approved under the old approval requirements. 

These new units must be stored in a cache close to where miners work. Mine operators will need 

to provide miners with a CCER that can be worn on their belts and provide at least 10 minutes of 

oxygen (Cap 1) in order to reach a cache of larger Cap 3 CCERs that provide a minimum of 60 

minutes of breathable air.

Retrospective Study. On May 1, 2014, MSHA published a final rule, Lowering Miners’ 

Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust, Including Continuous Personal Dust Monitors. MSHA 

intends on taking the lead in conducting a retrospective study beginning February 1, 2017. 

Under the Department’s Plan for Retrospective Analysis of Existing Rules, MSHA intends to 

consult with industry, labor, NIOSH, and other stakeholders to determine best practices and how 

these practices can be replicated throughout mines to achieve similar results. This retrospective 

study will be conducted in accordance with the Department of Labor’s Plan for Retrospective
TAB 2: 30/60/90 Days – State of Play

9

Analysis of Existing Rules that complies with Executive Order 13563, Improving Regulation and 

Regulatory Review (76 FR 3821).

By end of April 2017

Implementing the Mine Act in the U.S. Territories. During the spring/summer of 2014, it was 

brought to MSHA’s attention that the Agency should be enforcing the Mine Act in the U.S. 

Pacific Territories of Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 

Islands (Territories). MSHA will conduct compliance assistance visit inspections, with no 

penalties issued, during the first half of FY 2017. During the second half of FY 2017, MSHA 

plans to conduct regular safety and health inspections. 

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016: Appropriations Report on Compliance Rates with 

Respirable Coal Mine Dust Rule. Congress directed MSHA to report to the Committees on 

Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate and authorizing committees of 

jurisdiction within 72 hours of determining the compliance rates under the new sampling 

protocols that took effect on February 1, 2016, under MSHA’s final rule on lowering miners’ 

exposure to respirable coal mine dust. MSHA will issue the fourth quarterly report to Congress 

after April 2017. This is a recurring quarterly report. 

Key Meetings

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016: Appropriations Report on Review of Occupational 

Exposure to Respirable Coal Mine Dust. Congress directed MSHA to provide assistance and 

data necessary for the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NAS) 

review of occupational exposure to respirable coal mine dust in underground mines. NAS is 

assembling its panel. MSHA anticipates the panel will hold its first meeting in March/April 

2017. The report is due to Congress in December 2018. 

Diesel Exhaust Health Effects Partnership on Diesel Exhaust in Underground Coal and 

Metal and Nonmetal Mines. MSHA is seeking information and data on the effectiveness of the 

Agency’s existing standards and policy guidance on controlling miners’ exposures to diesel 

exhaust to preserve miners’ health. MSHA published a request for information (RFI) on June 8, 

2016. MSHA and NIOSH have received requests from stakeholders to form a Diesel Exhaust 

Health Effects Partnership with the mining industry, including coal and metal and nonmetal 

mines, diesel engine manufacturers, and representatives of organized labor. The Partnership will 

begin after the comment period for the RFI closes on November 30, 2016. MSHA anticipates 

that the Partnership will schedule its first meeting in December 2018.
TAB 2: 30/60/90 Days – State of Play

10

Key Agency Stakeholders

MSHA’s key stakeholders include the general public, other Federal agencies, State mining 

agencies, labor organizations, national mining industry, and public interest groups. Key agency 

stakeholders include:

Labor Organizations

United Mine Workers of America (UMWA): The UMWA is the largest union in North 

America representing coal miners and represents workers in and around underground coal mines, 

surface mining operations, and preparation plants. The UMWA also represents miners of metal, 

hardrock, and other materials.

United Steelworkers of America (USW): The USW represents miners in surface and 

underground metal and nonmetal mines and several coal mines.

International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE): The IUOE represents operating 

engineers, who work as heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and surveyors in the 

construction industry, and stationary engineers, who work in operations and maintenance in 

building and industrial complexes, and in the service industries.

The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron 

Workers (Ironworkers): The ironworkers represent those who work on bridges, structural 

steel, ornamental, architectural, and miscellaneous metals, rebar, and in shops.

Bituminous Coal Operators Association (BCOA): The BCOA represents its members in 

collective bargaining with the UMWA. 

National Mining Industry Groups

National Mining Association (NMA): NMA is a national trade organization that represents the 

interests of coal and metal and nonmetal mine operators before Congress, the Administration, 

federal agencies, the judiciary and the media.

Industrial Minerals Association North America (IMA-NA): IMA-NA is a trade association 

that represents companies that mine or process minerals used throughout the manufacturing and 

agricultural industries. 

Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME): The IME advocates at all levels of government for

the adoption of rules and regulations consistent with safety and security in the manufacture, 

transportation, storage, handling, use and disposal of explosive materials.

National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA): The NSSGA represents the 

construction aggregates industry.
TAB 2: 30/60/90 Days – State of Play

11

Portland Cement Association (PCA): PCA is a trade association that advocates for cement and 

concrete industries.

National Lime Association (NLA): NLA updates its members on issues of common interest 

including regulatory and legislative developments. NLA also provides a forum to enhance and 

encourage the exchange of ideas and technical information common to the industry and to 

promote the use of lime and the business interests of the lime industry.

Association of Equipment Manufactures (AEM): AEM advocates for a community of 

equipment manufacturers.

Public Interest Groups

American Public Health Association (APHA): APHA is an advocacy group of public health 

professionals that supports issues related to health care for communities.

Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center: The Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center is a nonprofit law 

firm that represents coal miners and their families on issues of black lung and mine safety.
TAB 3: Initiatives

12

TAB 3: INITIATIVES

Regulatory and Policy Issues 

Regulatory Issues

Exposure of Underground Miners to Diesel Exhaust. Epidemiological studies by the National 

Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the National Cancer Institute have found that 

diesel exhaust exposure increases miners' risk of death due to lung cancer. The International 

Agency for Research on Cancer classified diesel exhaust as a human carcinogen. On June 8, 

2016, MSHA published a request for information and data on approaches to control and monitor 

miners' exposures to diesel exhaust in underground coal and metal and nonmetal mines. MSHA 

is seeking information and data on the effectiveness of the Agency’s existing standards and 

policy guidance on controlling miners’ exposures to diesel exhaust to preserve miners’ health. 

The comment period was scheduled to close on September 6, 2016. In response to stakeholder 

requests, the comment period was extended to November 30, 2016. MSHA and NIOSH also 

received requests to form a Diesel Exhaust Health Effects Partnership with the mining industry, 

including coal and metal and nonmetal mines, diesel engine manufacturers, and representatives 

of organized labor. MSHA has agreed to work with NIOSH to form a Partnership. See Key 

Meetings.

Proximity Detection Systems for Mobile Machines in Underground Mines. On September 2, 

2015, MSHA published a proposed rule that would require underground coal mine operators to 

equip coal hauling machines and scoops with proximity detection systems. Miners working near 

these machines face pinning, crushing, and striking hazards that result in accidents involving life 

threatening injuries and death. The comment period closed on December 15, 2015. MSHA is

developing a notice that reopens the rulemaking record and requests comments on issues that 

were raised by commenters during the comment period and on issues that developed after the 

record closed. 

Respirable Crystalline Silica. On March 25, 2016, OSHA published its final rule on 

Occupational Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica which improved protections for workers

exposed to crystalline silica. Consistent with OSHA’s rule, MSHA is developing a proposed rule 

for its metal and nonmetal mines. 

Criteria and Procedures for Proposed Assessment of Civil Penalties. On July 31, 2014, 

MSHA published a proposed rule to amend its civil penalty regulation to simplify the criteria, 

which will promote consistency, objectivity, and efficiency in the proposed assessment of civil 

penalties and facilitate the resolution of enforcement issues. The proposal would place a greater 

emphasis on the more serious safety and health conditions and provide improved safety and 

health for miners. MSHA also proposed two alternatives that would address the scope and 

applicability of its civil penalty regulation. The comment period closed on March 31, 2015. 

MSHA received unanimous opposition from stakeholders on MSHA’s proposed alternatives to 

the related scope. This item is classified as a long-term action in DOL’s regulatory agenda. 

Other Policy Issues

MNM is in the process of developing policy (Program Policy Letter) on Escapeways and 

Refuges. The policy will clarify ambiguities in 30 CFR § 57.11050, which regulates escapeways 
TAB 3: Initiatives

13

and refuges, by establishing clear guidelines and expectations for mine operators and improving 

consistency of enforcement nation-wide.

Major Grants and Contracts

The Mine Act and MSHA’s regulations require miner training and education in prevention of 

injury and disease. In the mining industry, inadequate or ineffective training has been identified 

as a contributing factor in certain mine fatalities. The Directorate of Educational Policy and 

Development (EPD) administers the following mine health and safety training programs:

State Grants Program. State grants support training programs for miners in 49 states and the 

Navajo Nation. Under this program, MSHA awards grants to assist states in training and 

retraining of miners working at surface and underground coal and metal and nonmetal mines, 

including miners engaged in shell dredging or employed at surface stone, sand, and gravel 

mining operations. With this formula-based grant, Congress is authorized to appropriate up to 

$10 million annually. In recent years, Congress has required MSHA to award not less than 

$8,441,000 in state grants funding annually. In FY 2017, MSHA will award $8,441,000 in state 

grants and projects to train 180,000 miners. 

Brookwood-Sago Mine Safety Grants. The MINER Act, which established the BrookwoodSago Mine Safety Grants Program, requires MSHA to establish a program to award competitive 

grants for education and training. MSHA is also required to award grants with a special 

emphasis on programs and materials that target workers in smaller mines, including training 

miners and mine operators about MSHA’s standards, and high risk activities and other hazards. 

To be eligible to receive a grant, an entity must be a public or private nonprofit. Eligible 

applicants include States and nonprofit (private or public) entities, including U.S. territories, 

Indian tribes, tribal organizations, Alaska Native entities, Indian-controlled organizations serving 

Indians, and Native Hawaiian organizations. The amount of funding for the program has ranged 

from $500,000 up to $1,250,000. In FY 2017, MSHA will award grants with a focus on training 

for mine rescue and mine emergency preparedness in underground mines. Grants must be

awarded by September 30, 2017.

Joseph A. Holmes Safety Association (JAHSA). The JAHSA is a nonprofit organization that 

began in 1916 to promote health and safety in the mining industry and consists of representatives 

from Federal and State Governments, Mining Organizations and Labor. The Association’s 

objectives are to prevent fatalities and injuries, to improve health and safety among officials and 

employees in all phases of mining, and to promote mine rescue. MSHA supports JAHSA in two 

ways: (1) assist in the development of JAHSA’s organizational capacity and (2) provide direct 

support to the mine rescue activities of the Holmes Mine Rescue Association, a separate mine 

rescue component within the existing Association. 

Training Grants for the U.S. Territories. MSHA will provide funds for training and other 

assistance to miners, mine operators, contractors in Guam, American Samoa, and the 

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in FY 2016 and FY 2017. See Key 

Announcements. 
TAB 3: Initiatives

14

Enforcement 

On April 5, 2010, 29 miners were killed and two were seriously injured in a massive explosion at 

the Upper Big Branch Mine in Raleigh County, West Virginia. It was the worst American coal 

mining disaster in 40 years and a devastating loss for the miners’ families, and communities. 

Under the Mine Act, mine operators are responsible for maintaining safe and healthy work 

environments and complying with mandatory health and safety requirements at all times, 

whether or not MSHA inspectors are present. Since this preventable tragedy occurred, MSHA 

reviewed its enforcement activities and retooled some of the Agency’s enforcement programs. 

The Agency also implemented other strategic enforcement initiatives. MSHA’s enforcement 

actions have led to measured improvement in mine safety. On January 1, 2016, MSHA reported 

that 28 miners died in 2015 in work-related accidents at the nation’s mines, down from 45 in 

2014. The figure represents the lowest number of mining deaths ever recorded and the first year 

that mining deaths dropped below 30. MSHA credits this record to the combined efforts of the 

mining industry, both labor and operators, and the Agency’s use of the following strategic 

enforcement tools and actions it employed since the tragic event in 2010. 

MSHA has two enforcement program areas – Coal Mine Safety and Health (Coal) and Metal and 

Nonmetal Mine Safety and Health (MNM). To ensure the safety and health of the nation’s 

miners, MSHA employs the following enforcement strategies. 

Statutorily Mandated Inspections. The Mine Act requires MSHA to inspect all active 

underground mines four times per year and all surface mines twice per year. These inspections 

form the core of MSHA’s enforcement, providing a first-hand look at conditions at each of the 

nation’s mines. In FY 2016, MSHA inspected approximately 1,500 surface and underground 

coal mines, and about 12,000 surface and underground metal and nonmetal mines.

Pattern of Violations. MSHA also screens mines to determine whether a mine has a pattern of 

violations (POV) of mandatory safety and health standards. The POV provision of the Mine Act 

is one of MSHA’s most stringent enforcement tools – reserved for mines that pose the greatest 

risk to the health and safety of miners, particularly those with chronic violation records. The 

Mine Act authorizes MSHA to issue a POV notice to mine operators that demonstrate a 

disregard for the health and safety of miners through a pattern of significant and substantial 

violations. 

Targeted Impact Inspections. These inspections, which began following the explosion at the 

Upper Big Branch Mine, target mines with specific conditions, problems or compliance issues 

that merit increased agency attention and enforcement, including high number of violations or 

closure orders; indications of advance notification of inspections that prevent inspectors from 

observing violations; frequent hazard complaints or hotline calls; inadequate workplace 

examinations; high number of accidents, injuries or illnesses; fatalities; and adverse conditions 

such as increased methane liberation, faulty roof conditions, inadequate ventilation and high 

respirable dust levels. The number of targeted inspections conducted depends on the number of 

mines that meet the factors listed above. 

Rules to Live By. Launched in 2010, the Rules to Live By initiatives target causes of fatal mine 

accidents and disasters. Rules to Live By I focuses on reducing violations of 24 frequently cited 

standards (11 in coal mining and 13 in metal/nonmetal mining) that cause or contribute to fatal 
TAB 3: Initiatives

15

accidents in the mining industry. Rules to Live By II aims at preventing catastrophic accidents

and focuses on 9 standards that were cited during major disasters over the last 10 years, and 

which contributed to 5 or more fatalities. Rules to Live By III is designed to prevent common 

mining deaths. The program focuses on 14 safety standards (8 in coal mining and 6 in metal and 

nonmetal mining) cited as a result of at least 5 mining accidents and resulting in at least 5 deaths 

during the 10-year period from January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2010. Rules to Live By IV, 

which is designed to prevent common mining deaths, focuses on 2 safety standards (1 in coal 

mining and 1 in metal and nonmetal mining) cited as a result of at least 5 mining accidents and 

resulting in at least 5 fatalities during the 10-year period from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 

2015, that were not included in Rules to Live By I, II, and III. The Rules to Live By initiative also 

includes targeted inspections and outreach to miners in coal and metal and nonmetal mines.

Protecting Miners from Discrimination. Informed miners are an essential element in 

maintaining a safe and healthful environment in all mines, at all times. The Mine Act provides 

miners the right to be full stakeholders in their own health and safety by participating in the 

inspection process through a representative of their own choosing, speaking out about hazards, 

and refusing to work in dangerous conditions. MSHA became aware of miners’ fears of 

discrimination and retaliation in the wake of the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster. Statements 

from miners and family members of the miners killed at Upper Big Branch indicated that mine 

employees had been reluctant to speak out about safety conditions in existence prior to the April 

2010 explosion, fearing retaliation from management. 

MSHA’s Special Investigations Program investigates discrimination complaints filed under 

Section 105(c) of the Mine Act by miners, representatives of miners, or applicants for 

employment, in addition to investigation of knowing or willful violations under Section 110 of 

the Mine Act. 

Specific Enforcement Activities for Coal Mine Safety and Health

Equipment, Materials, and Engineering Plans. Effective approaches to reducing the risk of 

injury and disease among miners include ensuring that mine operators’ roof control and 

ventilation plans can control the hazards inherent to the underground coal mining environment 

and that equipment, materials, and structures used in mines meet MSHA’s standards. MSHA is 

required to review roof control and ventilation plans at least every 6 months. MSHA also 

conducts timely reviews of mine operators’ equipment and materials to ensure compliance with 

MSHA’s standards. 

Special Emphasis Health Inspections. On May 1, 2014, MSHA published a final rule to 

control miners’ exposure to respirable coal mine dust. This rule reduces the allowable amount of 

respirable dust to which a miner can be exposed. The rule also increases the frequency of dust 

sampling and requires coal operators to take immediate corrective action when dust levels 

exceed an applicable standard. Since August 1, 2014, MSHA and mine operators have collected 

over 134,000 respirable dust samples, of which approximately 99 percent of those samples were 

in compliance with the new standards. The second phase of the rule, which went into effect on 

February 1, 2016, requires mine operators to use the Continuous Personal Dust Monitor (CPDM) 

to collect their dust samples. The CPDM is a new technology that provides a direct 

measurement of respirable dust in the miner’s work atmosphere. The final phase of the rule, 

which went into effect on August 1, 2016, reduces the concentration limits for respirable coal 
TAB 3: Initiatives

16

mine dust. The overall respirable dust standard in coal mines is reduced from 2.0 to 1.5 

milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/m3). The standard is reduced from 1.0 to 0.5 mg/m3 for air 

used to ventilate places in underground coal mines where miners work and for Part 90 miners

(miners with evidence of pneumoconiosis). 

Civil Penalties for Violations of the Mine Act. The decline in violations and total penalties in 

Coal is commensurate with the downtrend in coal production. See Table 1 below.

Fiscal 

Year

Table 1: Coal

No. of 

Violations

Total 

Penalties

2011 97,847 $83,229,634

2012 97,746 $104,303,428

2013 83,074 $77,398,805

2014 65,486 $60,662,182

2015 63,912 $55,034,543

2016 47,206 $46,526,755

Specific Enforcement Activities in Metal and Nonmetal Mine Safety and Health

Fatality Prevention Initiative. MNM has an ongoing Fatality Prevention Initiative to address 

an upward trend in fatalities at metal and nonmetal mines in recent years. Since October 2013, 

66 MNM miners lost their lives, more than double the number of MNM fatalities in the previous 

three fiscal years combined. On August 3, 2015, there were three fatalities at three separate 

metal/nonmetal operations. As a result, MNM increased efforts under this initiative, which 

included targeted inspections and outreach to miners including “walk and talks,” and involved 

combined efforts of MNM and Coal enforcement staff, as well as Educational Policy and 

Development staff. 

Implementing the Mine Act in the U.S. Territories. MSHA recently began Mine Act 

implementation activities in the U.S. Pacific Territories of Guam, American Samoa, and the 

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (the Territories). It was brought to MSHA’s 

attention in spring/summer of 2014 that the Agency has jurisdiction of and should be 

implementing the Mine Act in the Territories. MSHA developed a plan that involved outreach, 

education, and training, and Compliance Assistance Visits to prepare the mining industry for full 

implementation of the Mine Act in FY 2017. MSHA has been working with federal and local 

government officials in the execution of this plan, and MNM’s plans to conduct the first 

inspections of mining operations in the Territories in the first half of FY 2017. In lieu of issuing 

citations for violations during the first inspections, compliance assistance notices, with no 

penalties, will be issued. See Key Announcements.

Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. MSHA also is responsible for conducting inspections at the Waste 

Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), the only repository for the disposal of nuclear, transuranic waste in 

the United States, located in New Mexico. Under the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Land 

Withdrawal Act (LWA), Congress mandated that MSHA inspect the WIPP four times a year. 

MSHA and the Department of Energy (DOE) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding in 

October 2014, specifying the responsibilities and duties of each party for compliance with the 
TAB 3: Initiatives

17

LWA. Inspectors issue citations for violations of the Mine Act and mandatory standards, but 

there are no civil penalties associated with the citations. Additionally, MSHA does not have 

authority to shut down the facility, withdraw workers, or take other actions if hazards are not 

corrected as it would at other mines. MSHA and DOE worked together to address hazards 

identified during inspections, as well as ventilation and ground control issues of concern.

Civil Penalties for Violations of the Mine Act. The number of violations and penalties have 

been stable since FY 2014.

Fiscal 

Year

Table 1: Metal/Nonmetal

No. of Violations

Total 

Penalties

2011 71,602 $33,486,246

2012 64,916 $32,709,752

2013 62,933 $31,749,513

2014 55,563 $27,945,273

2015 58,799 $27,156,380

2016 55,757 $22,725,693

MSHA also has entered into formal Alliances with the following groups representing metal and 

nonmetal mines: 

− Industrial Minerals Association - North America

− Institute of Makers of Explosives

− International Union of Operating Engineers

− National Lime Association

− National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association

− Portland Cement Association

− Association of Equipment Manufacturers

− International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers

Enforcement-Related Activities

Scofflaw Program. MSHA’s Scofflaw Program also is an enforcement tool intended to pursue 

violators demonstrating egregious cases of non-compliance in combination with unpaid civil 

penalties. In such cases, MSHA will work with the Department of Labor’s Office of the 

Solicitor to determine whether further action is warranted for operators and contractors that 

warrant further action. These actions include traditional collection practices, Court of Appeals 

Enforcement, District Court Injunction, and Section 104(a) Citation/104(b) Closure Order. 

Accountability Program. MSHA’s Accountability Program conducts reviews to determine 

whether Coal, and MNM programs are complying with MSHA’s enforcement policies, 

procedures, and guidance consistently. The reviews identify actual or potential areas for 

improvement upon which the enforcement programs implement any needed corrective measures 

by establishing and promoting effective corrective actions and rigorous follow-up. These 

reviews serve to maintain a culture of consistent and effective enforcement activity. 
TAB 3: Initiatives

18

Improve Mine Emergency Response Preparedness. In 2009 Assistant Secretary Main began 

an agency review of gaps in mine emergency and needed improvements. Those shortcomings 

were identified in prior mine emergencies and disasters and in internal investigative reviews that 

followed the Upper Big Branch disaster. Mine rescue summit meetings, and stakeholder 

meetings were held to address improvements needed. Since 2010, MSHA has developed state of 

the art communications, tracking, monitoring, and mapping systems to make mine rescue quicker 

and safer. MSHA has established its fourth mine rescue station in Madisonville, KY. The other 

three mine rescue stations are located in: Pittsburgh, PA; Denver, CO/Price UT; and Beckley, 

WV. Each station will be capable of providing underground communications, and command and 

control. MSHA is working toward ensuring that each station is fully equipped as soon as funding 

is available. MSHA also continues to address technology gaps. MSHA activities include: 

completing upgrades to the seismic location system, which is used to locate trapped miners, and; 

providing a seismic location system for each Rescue Station; completing upgrades to the robot 

that allows MSHA to locate and rescue trapped miners when conditions do not allow mine 

rescue teams to enter the mine; and purchasing a robot that locates trapped miners for the 

Denver/Price Mine Rescue Station.

MSHA Standardized Information System (MSIS). MSIS, a web-based application, is the 

critical core information management system enabling MSHA to accomplish its mission of 

protecting the health and safety of the nation's miners. MSIS collects and maintains information 

about mines, mine operations, miner and instructor qualifications and certifications, mine 

inspections, coal dust sampling management, infractions of mandatory safety and health 

standards, and provides information to assess alleged violations against mine operators and 

independent contractors. MSIS is the definitive source of mine safety data. Non-government 

entities like private industry, educational institutions, research organizations, in addition to other 

government agencies rely heavily on regular distribution of data and reports for their business 

operations.

Enforcement Challenge. 

DOL IT Consolidation and Integration Initiatives. The DOL IT consolidation and integration 

initiative continues to affect MSHA’s ability to carry out its core mission of preventing death, 

illness, and injury from mining. MSHA’s challenge is to assure that the consolidation initiative 

provides the Agency’s enforcement programs reliable and continued IT service. MSHA 

enforcement efforts depend on a well-performing network infrastructure that provides continual 

service to the Agency’s large field organization that includes approximately 100 locations across 

the nation. MSHA must assure that the IT consolidation positively support the Agency’s 

inspectors during mine inspections. Also, budget decisions must be made in a manner that 

allows MSHA the necessary funding to support the Agency’s mission critical IT applications.

Other Program Areas that Support MSHA’s Enforcement Activities.

Directorate of Technical Support (Technical Support). Technical Support provides 

engineering and scientific expertise in the areas of science and engineering, advanced and 

applied technologies, and laboratory investigations and analyses. Technical Support also 

evaluates and approves certain equipment and materials used in mines as well as maintain 

MSHA’s mine emergency response capability. Technical Support’s team of specialists provide 
TAB 3: Initiatives

19

assistance to MSHA’s two enforcement programs – Coal Mine Safety and Health and Metal and 

Nonmetal Safety and Health – by providing assistance on technical issues, responding to mine 

emergencies, and participating in accident investigations. 

Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variance (OSRV). OSRV’s primary responsibility is 

to manage and coordinate the development of MSHA’s standards and regulations. The Mine Act 

provides MSHA with rulemaking authority in two areas: Section 101 and Section 508. Section 

101 authorizes development of new and revised safety and health standards, and Section 508 

provides general rulemaking authority or regulations necessary to carry out any provisions of the 

Mine Act. 

Office of Assessments. The Office of Assessments is responsible for the administration of all 

activities involving the assessment and collection of civil monetary penalties issued against mine 

operators and their agents for the violations of the Mine Act and mine safety and health 

standards. In 2012, MSHA centralized oversight and management of special enforcement 

authorities under a single program, the Office of Assessments. See Organizational Changes.

Directorate of Program Evaluation and Information Resources (PEIR). PEIR conducts 

internal reviews, evaluates the effectiveness of MSHA’s enforcement programs, and conducts 

follow-up reviews to ensure that appropriate corrective actions have been taken. PEIR also 

collects, analyzes, and publishes data obtained from mine operators on work-related injuries and 

illnesses in the mining industry. PEIR is responsible for maintaining the MSHA Standardized 

Information System (MSIS).

Directorate of Educational Policy and Development (EPD). EPD administers MSHA’s 

training programs. EPD plans, monitors, and evaluates all MSHA education and training 

programs and provides entry-level and journeyman training for MSHA’s enforcement staff. 

EPD reviews all training materials developed in support of these activities, coordinating training 

programs with other Federal and state Agencies, mining companies, educational institutions, and 

labor organizations. EDP administers the National Mine Health and Safety Academy and the 

Educational Field and Small Mine Services program. See Organizational Changes.

Audits and Reports

OIG Audits Completed Since 2013

No

.

Report 

Date Report Number Report Title Hyperlink to Report

1 15-Jan-13 05-13-001-06-001

Analysis of MSHA's MNM Inspection 

Activity Does Not Show Excessive 

Enforcement in South Dakota

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-13-001-06-001&y=2013

2 29-Mar-13 05-13-002-06-001

MSHA Has Improved Its Roof Control Plan 

Review and Monitoring Process But Could Do 

More

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-13-002-06-001&y=2013

3 31-Mar-13 05-13-003-06-001

MSHA is Making Progress to Implement the 

Upper Big Branch Internal Review 

Recommendations and is Undertaking Actions 

on the Independent Panel Report

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-13-003-06-001&y=2013

4 24-Sep-13 23-13-019-06-001

Verification of MSHA Remediation Efforts of 

Prior-Year Information Technology Security 

Recommendations

This report is not publicly available (or accessible via a 

hyperlink) on the OIG’s website due to sensitivity of 

contents.
TAB 3: Initiatives

20

5 27-Sep-13 23-13-027-06-001

Fiscal Year 2013 Federal Information Security 

Management Act: Mine Safety and Health 

Administration Standardized Information 

System Testing

This report is not publicly available (or accessible via a 

hyperlink) on the OIG’s website due to sensitivity of 

contents.

6 30-Sep-13 23-13-013-06-001

Fiscal Year 2013 Federal Information Security 

Management Act: Mine Safety and Health 

Administration General Support System 

Testing

This report is not publicly available (or accessible via a 

hyperlink) on the OIG’s website due to sensitivity of 

contents.

7 30-Sep-13 05-13-008-06-001

MSHA Can Improve Its Section 110 Special 

Investigations Process

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-13-008-06-001&y=2013

8 30-Sep-13 05-13-004-06-001

MSHA Should Continue to Reassess and 

Make Improvements to its Role in Mine 

Rescue Contests

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-13-004-06-001&y=2013

9 31-Mar-14 05-14-001-06-001

MSHA Has Taken Steps to Detect and Deter 

Underreporting of Accidents and Occupational 

Injuries and Illnesses, But More Action Is Still 

Needed

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-14-001-06-001&y=2014

10 19-Sep-14 05-14-002-06-001

MSHA Laboratories Have Improved 

Timeliness, But the Overall Sampling Process 

Could Be Enhanced

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-14-002-06-001&y=2014

11 29-Sep-14 05-14-004-06-001

Alleged Waste of Government Funds by 

MSHA Employees

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-14-004-06-001&y=2014

12 7-Oct-15 05-16-001-06-001

Alert Memorandum: Incorrect Telephone 

Numbers in Mine Emergency Response Plans

http://www.oig.dol.gov/public/reports/oa/viewpdf.php?r

=05-16-001-06-001&y=2016

Description of Ongoing OIG Audits

1. Hazardous Condition Complaints (HCC): The OIG audited MSHA to determine whether 

MSHA appropriately logged, assessed, and responded to complaints of hazardous mine 

conditions. MSHA recently received the final report.

2. Civil Monetary Penalties (CMP): The OIG is conducting an audit of MSHA’s civil penalty 

collection process and delinquent debt management. On July 27, 2016, MSHA provided its 

May 2016 Debt Write-off Report and is current on all OIG data and documentation requests. 

3. Emergency Response Plan (ERP): The OIG audited MSHA to determine whether MSHA 

provided sufficient oversight over the process to develop, review, approve, and implement 

emergency response plans. MSHA is waiting for a final preliminary results report from the 

OIG.

4. Inspectors’ Portable Application for Laptops (IPAL): The OIG audited MSHA to review 

system controls to ensure that specific violations and other critical information were received 

by inspectors’ and full data were transferred, logged, monitored and reviewed in a timely 

manner when compared to inspectors’ inspection schedules. MSHA is waiting for a draft 

report from the OIG. 

Management 

MSHA has developed online compliance tools that allow anyone in the mining community to 

monitor a mine’s compliance with key safety and health standards. These compliance tools 

access a broad range of mine safety and health data including information about mine 
TAB 3: Initiatives

21

inspections, accidents, injuries, illnesses, violations, employment, production totals, and air 

sampling. These tools include:

Rules to Live By Calculator. Beginning in February 2010, MSHA began launching the Rules to 

Live By safety and health initiative. With updates to the initiative, Rules to Live now focuses on 

49 health and safety standards most often associated with fatal mining accidents and serious 

injuries and illnesses. This calculator gives miners, mine operators, MSHA and the public the 

ability to monitor any mine’s compliance with the Rules to Live By standards.

Significant and Substantial (S&S) Rate Calculator. An S&S designation indicates that an 

underlying safety or health hazard is likely to result in a serious injury or illness. Over the years, 

MSHA has studied its data to determine the common causes of injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. 

It is evident that the violations of a small number of health and safety standards are responsible 

for the majority of fatalities and serious injuries and illnesses. This tool shows the rate of S&S 

citations and orders per 100 inspection hours during a certain time period.

Monthly Monitoring Tool for Pattern of Violations (POV). Mine operators can determine 

whether a mine may be subject to a POV notice by using this online tool. The tool provides a 

comparison of a mine's enforcement and injury data against the four POV screening criteria.

Key Underground Coal Standards (Part 75) Calculator. This tool calculates a mine's violation 

rate for 9 key health and safety standards for underground coal mines, as identified in MSHA’s 

Part 75 Exam Rule requiring examinations and recordkeeping by mine operators. The standards 

address ventilation, methane, roof control, combustible materials, rock dust, guarding, and other 

safeguards. 

Additionally, MSHA completed the implementation of the Inspection Tracking System (ITS), an 

enterprise-level application designed to help MSHA personnel plan, execute, and report mine 

inspections. The ITS will allow MSHA’s mobile workforce to use full application capabilities 

whether they are in the field or the office. 

MSHA’s state of the art video communication system allows interaction between sites. PEIR 

established a videoconferencing solution across 23 District and Field offices as well as 14 

Solicitor’s offices (SOL) for a combined total of 37 sites. This system enables training to be 

provided remotely to inspectors as a cost-effective alternative to journeyman inspector 

training. It has been used extensively for other types of trainings, meetings and collaboration 

efforts with internal and external users. The VTC system allows for improved dissemination of 

critical information. MSHA has the most robust VTC system in DOL. 

Calendar 

The Joint National Meeting and Training Seminar of the Joseph A. Holmes Safety 

Association (JAHSA) and the Holmes Mine Rescue Association is an annual, three-day event 

that promotes mine safety and health, and mine rescue in all sectors of the mining industry. The 

next National Meeting and Training Seminar will take place in June 2017.
TAB 4: Budget

22

TAB 4: BUDGET

BUDGET AUTHORITY AND FTE SUMMARY

(Dollars in millions)

FY 2013

Enacted

FY 2014

Enacted

FY 2015

Enacted

FY 2016

Enacted

FY 2017

Request

Budget Authority $373.3 $375.9 $375.9 $375.9 $397.4

FTE 2,374 2,286 2,257 2,251 2,277

At-A-Glance

• MSHA consists of eight different budget activities that are funded through an annual 

appropriation.

Budget and FTE Trends

• MSHA’s budget increased steadily by an average of $9 million each year from FY 2009 

to FY 2012. In FY 2013, funding was reduced by approximately $20 million due to 

sequestration, but this was restored in FY 2014. Since that time MSHA’s annual 

appropriations have remained level at $375.9 million. The agency has requested an 

increase of $21.5 million in FY 2017 to support implementation and enforcement of the 

final Respirable Dust Rule, fund the modernization and replacement of Inspectors’ 

Portable Application Laptops, strengthen the delivery of training to MSHA staff and 

mining industry, and support other initiatives to further improve safety and health 

conditions in the mining workplace.

• From FY 2009 to FY 2013, MSHA’s FTE usage was relatively consistent. However, 

FTE use decreased by 117 FTE from FY 2013 to FY 2015. FY 2013 sequestration, the 

shutdown in FY 2014, and a large amount of unforeseen attritions contributed to this 

reduction. In FY 2017, the agency requested 6 additional FTE over the FY 2016 

authorized FTE level of 2,271. 

• The FY 2013 bill included a change to the appropriation language concerning the 

Approval and Certification Center fees. With this change, the authority to collect the fees 

comes from the language itself, instead of general collection authority. The revision 

increased the amount MSHA is authorized to collect and retain by $1.0 million, to $2.499 

million. 

• A supplemental funding bill was passed in 2010 in response to the Upper Big Branch 

Mine disaster. Resources were provided for enforcement and mine safety activities, 

including increased efforts to reduce the backlog of cases at the Federal Mine Safety and 

Health Review Commission1

, investigation of the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster, 

 

1 The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission is an independent adjudicative agency that provides 

administrative trial and appellate review of legal disputes arising under the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 

1977 (Mine Act). Under the Mine Act, the Department of Labor issues regulations covering health and safety in the 

nation's mines. Federal mine inspectors employed by the Department's Mine Safety and Health Administration 

(MSHA) enforce these regulations by issuing citations and orders to mine operators. The Commission is concerned 

solely with the adjudication of disputes under the Mine Act, including the determination of appropriate penalties. It 

does not regulate mining or enforce the Mine Act.
TAB 4: Budget

23

standards and rulemaking activities, emergency response equipment purchases and 

upgrades, and organizational improvement. DOL received a total of $18.2 million in 

supplemental funding for the Departmental Management account; $7.3 million of this 

was transferred to MSHA. The funding expired on July 28, 2011. 

• Sequestration in FY 2013 impacted all of MSHA’s activities. Due to the reduced 

funding, the agency redirected resources to support higher priority activities and 

strengthen its ability to conduct its mandated functions, including required health and 

safety inspections and investigations of accidents, hazard complaints, and miner 

discrimination complaints. This allowed the agency to avoid furloughs. 

Upcoming Issues

• In FY 2016, MSHA reprogrammed funds from the CMSH activity to other activities 

within the agency. The reasoning behind this being that coal mining is currently on the 

decline, and the agency has a statutory requirement to conduct metal/nonmetal training, 

compliance assistance, and enforcement in the Pacific Territories, and anticipates an 

overall increase in aggregate mining. This reprogramming includes the transfer of 

enforcement positions from CMSH to other MSHA programs and may need to be 

repeated in future years to balance resources between the CMSH and MNMSH activities. 
TAB 4: Budget

24

FY 2009 FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

PB

Request $332.1 $353.7 $360.8 $384.3 $371.9 $380.7 $377.2 $394.9 $397.4

Enacted $347.0 $357.3 $363.1 $373.3 $353.8 $375.9 $375.9 $375.9

$280

$300

$320

$340

$360

$380

$400

$420

MSHA

Request vs. Enacted, FY 2009-FY 2016

(Dollars in millions)

FY 2009 FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016

Enacted $347.0 $357.3 $363.1 $373.3 $353.8 $375.9 $375.9 $375.9

Inflation Adjusted $347.0 $352.7 $363.8 $371.4 $376.8 $382.9 $383.4 $383.4

$280

$300

$320

$340

$360

$380

$400

MSHA

FY 2009 Inflation Adjusted BA vs. FY 2009-FY 2016 Enacted BA

(Dollars in millions)
TAB 4: Budget

25

FY 2009 FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017

PB

Authorized 2,361 2,425 2,328 2,365 2,388 2,366 2,316 2,271 2,277

Actuals 2,374 2,362 2,308 2,357 2,374 2,286 2,257 2,251

2,150

2,200

2,250

2,300

2,350

2,400

2,450

MSHA

Authorized FTE vs. Actuals, FY 2009-2017
TAB 5: Agency Performance

26

TAB 5: AGENCY PERFORMANCE

MSHA works to prevent death, illness, and injury from mining. In recent years, mine fatalities 

have reached record lows, in part due to MSHA’s many efforts to promote safe and healthful 

workplaces for U.S. miners. From FY 2010 to FY 2015, the 5 year rolling average of fatal 

injuries per 200,000 hours worked decreased 33% from .0187 to .0125.

MSHA inspects every underground mine four 

times annually and every surface mine twice 

annually. Impact inspections are additional 

unscheduled inspections conducted for mines 

designated as high risk.

While the number of mines in the U.S. decreases, reducing the number of mandated inspections, 

MSHA uses its resources to provide more compliance assistance and to fill critical gaps in other 

MSHA programs to accomplish the Agency’s mission. This helps reduce the risk of accidents, 

which usually increases when mines begin to slow production. MSHA also reports on the 

quality of its inspections:

.0187

.0125

.0000

.0100

.0200

FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015

MSHA Five-Year Rolling Average of Fatal Injuries 

Fatal injuries per 200,000 hours worked

21,737 20,510

161

203

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015

Mine Inspections (Mandated and Impact)

Total Mandated Inspections Total Impact Inspections

Performance Goal MSHA 2.1 – Prevent death, 

disease, and injury from mining and promote safe 

and healthful workplaces for the Nation’s miners.
TAB 5: Agency Performance

27

The changes in regulations, policies and the Mine Act along with staffing changes in the 

districts have greatly improved MSHA’s performance and accountability. Comprehensive 

training and periodic retraining has improved inspectors’ knowledge and skills; MSHA 

leadership centralized and improved its oversight. 

MSHA protects miners from discrimination when 

they exercise their right to report health and safety 

hazards without fear of retaliation. MSHA reports on 

the timeliness of its discrimination and temporary 

reinstatement investigations with these measures:

Timeliness of discrimination complaint investigations improved from 86% in FY 2011 to 97% in 

FY 2016 YTD; for temporary reinstatement requests, timely investigations improved from 70% 

in FY 2011 to 80% in FY 2016 YTD.

93% 94%

98% 98%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 YTD

Metal/Non-Metal (MNM) and Coal (CM) Audited Activity Compliance 

CM - Percent of Audited Activities not Requiring Corrective Actions

MNM - Percent of Audited Activities not Requiring Corrective Actions

86%

97%

70% 80%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

FY 2011 FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 YTD

Discrimination Complaint Processing Timeliness

Percent of 105(c) investigations of miner discrimination complaints that are completed within 60 days of receipt

Percent of investigations of miner requests for temporary reinstatements that are completed within 20 days of

receipt

Performance Goal MSHA 3.2 –

Protect miners from discrimination.