October 2021
In this edition of the Florida Mine Safety Program e-newsletter, you'll find information about the Fourth Annual Surface Mining Emergency Response Training and Competition, conferences taking place this fall and upcoming course dates.
Karen Miller Receives Woman of the Year Award from Joseph A. Holmes Safety Association
During the 2021 National Holmes Mining Safety and Health Conference held earlier this month, Mining Program Manager Karen Miller was presented with the Joseph A. Holmes Safety Association National District Council Safety Competition Woman of the Year Award! Karen was recognized for her outstanding service and contributions to mine safety.

Not only does Karen lead the Florida Mine Safety Program, but she also is the outgoing president of the Mine Safety Institute of America. Karen has held the position for the last two years, and she was presented with an authentic Brass Miner’s Oil Lamp for her service.

We are so proud of you, Karen. Congratulations on all of your achievements! 
Annual Training and Competition Postponed
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and current travel restrictions, we must postpone the Fourth Annual Surface Mining Emergency Response Training and Competition.

But, you won't have too wait too long; the event has been rescheduled for May 9-12, 2022!

Until then, watch our preview video and visit our website to learn more.
Southeast Mine Safety and Health Conference
We can't wait to see everyone at the upcoming Southeast Mine Safety and Health Conference!

The 2021 conference is taking place November 3-5, in Birmingham, Alabama.

Attendees will hear from keynote speakers in the health and safety industry, as well as participate in sessions taught by safety professionals from across the southeast.

Visit the conference website for more information and to register before it's too late!
2021 National Holmes Mining Safety and Health Conference
Earlier this month, several of our team members attended the 2021 National Holmes Mining Safety and Health Conference in Clearwater Beach, Florida.

It was an invaluable experience hearing from passionate keynote speakers, attending informative breakout sessions and connecting with our friends in the mining community. Some of the topics discussed during the conference include regulatory updates, the role of the Responsible Person, new technologies and safety culture.

We also were given the opportunity to present at the conference, sharing more information about our annual training and competition. We hope to see everyone at our fourth annual event in May!
New officers, awardees announced at 2021 National Holmes Mining Safety and Health Conference
During the 2021 National Holmes Mining Safety and Health Conference, Woody Wickersheim became the Joseph A. Holmes Safety Association president and Jeff Kravitz was named the Holmes Mine Rescue Association president. Both presidents will serve until the end of next year’s conference.

The following awards also were given out during the conference:
  • William “Bill” Hoover Lifetime Achievement Award – Ben Hart
  • Ival Van Horne Award – Carla Gustafson
  • Holmes Safety Association Woman of the Year – Karen Miller
  • Holmes Safety Association Man of the Year – John Osika
  • Holmes Mine Rescue Association Man of the Year – Kenny Murray
  • Holmes Mine Rescue Association Woman of the Year – Cindy Phillips
  • 2019 Surface Coal (Group III) – Somerset District Council
  • 2019 and 2020 Underground Coal (Group III) – Anthracite District Council
  • 2019 and 2020 Surface Metal/Nonmetal (Group III) – Anthracite District Council
  • 2019 and 2020 Underground Coal (Group I) – Scotty Groves District Council
Train-The-Trainer Course Cancelled
The MSHA Part 48 Instructor Training (Train-The-Trainer) scheduled to be held December 14-16, 2021 has been cancelled. If the course is rescheduled before the end of the year, it will be held virtually.

MSHA Part 48 Instructor Training is intended to improve the instructional skills, abilities and knowledge of mine trainers. This course provides comprehensive instruction on learning to be a trainer and a leader, including principles of adult instruction, developing and using training aids, developing a lesson plan and more.

Visit our website to learn more about this training and to browse our other course offerings.
WHO WE ARE
The Florida Mine Safety Program (FMSP) aims to educate those who partake in mining operations by assisting mining companies and mining contractors with their health and safety training. For more than 30 years, the program has operated as a federally-funded grant program under the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), whose mission is to prevent death, disease and injuries in the mining industry. This is done through a variety of training courses, conferences and informational seminars offered by FMSP. These courses highlight proper emergency evacuation plans, health and safety standards and more. FMSP diligently works to ensure that miners working in both Florida metal and nonmetal operations are aware of the health and safety standards and are effectively trained to take precautionary measures. Through a collaborative effort, FMSP and MSHA Educational Field and Small Mine Services (EFSMS) work together to reduce the frequency and severity of mining accidents and ensure a safe environment for all.

Disclosure of Federal Participation (Stevens Amendment) 
  • The Florida MSHA State Grants Program informs the public that the use of Federal dollars in the Florida Mine Safety Program meets the Stevens Amendment requirement. Bid Solicitations, press releases, various instructional material purchases, training resources, video productions, websites, social media, mine rescue events, staff professional development opportunities, and all engagements have been funded in whole or in part with Federal Entitlement Dollars.  
  • This Florida Mine Safety Program Bid Solicitation is fully supported by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, MSHA State Grants Program, of the U.S. Department of Labor as part of an award totaling $180,857.00 with 25% ($45,214.00) from non-governmental sources.  
  • "This material was produced under Grant Number MSHA 2020-1 from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, MSHA State Grants Program, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government." 
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Florida Mine Safety Program, 75 College Drive, Havana, FL 32304