MSHA issues safety alert on working near chemicals
Photo: Mine Safety and Health Administration
Arlington, VA — Spurred by a recent string of train derailments and chemical spills on mine sites, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has published a safety alert.
MSHA reminds industry stakeholders that handling chemicals properly can help prevent incidents, injuries and illnesses. Best practices for working safely with and around chemicals include:
- Store hazardous, flammable and combustible materials in a manner that minimizes danger to miners.
- Warn against potential hazards, caution against unsafe practices and provide instructions on the proper use of personal protective equipment.
- Provide miners with PPE, such as gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and NIOSH-approved respirators, when appropriate.
- Train miners on the task to be performed, working with or near chemical hazards, and performing appropriate emergency response procedures.
- Provide miners a Safety Data Sheet for each hazardous chemical they may be exposed to during their shift.
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