WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today announced that the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro will receive $147,305 to promote miner safety and health training programs. The grant was funded through the U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
MSHA's State Grants Program distributes grants to 49 states and the Navajo Nation to support health and safety programs that aim to reduce mining accidents, injuries and illnesses.
"New Mexico plays an important role in national and international mining production. This grant will help create a safer workplace for all New Mexico miners by funding safety training and accident prevention programs," Udall said.
The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology will coordinate the safety and health training programs for all miners and contract workers throughout the state. Courses offered by the program include and annual refresher course, new miner training, mine rescue training, first aid training, MSHA cooperative instructor training and certification and qualification training for surface and underground coal mine foreman.
