Spring brings increased mining, safety concerns

Associated Press - March 21, 2009 12:25 PM ET

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - With spring's arrival, some of Wyoming's seasonal mines are gearing up for the year.

Part-time miners becoming reacquainted with their jobs, along with the use of equipment that's been sitting idle, both contribute to seasonal spikes in workplace accidents.

To help ease the transition, the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration is holding "Spring Thaw Safety Workshops" in Wyoming and across the country.

Gillette and Green River each play host to workshops in March.

The seminars provide an opportunity for industry leaders to learn new mining regulations and share knowledge about safe mining practices.

Experts say Wyoming mines have a good safety record. There was one coal mine death last year, the state's first since 2005.

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