This month, NvMA staff went through its annual refresher training, a day dedicated to one of the most important aspects of our industry: safety.

It doesn’t take long to understand how seriously mining takes sending its workers home safely at the end of every shift. Visit any mine and you will see safety slogans prominently placed on vehicles and buildings. Meetings always start with a safety share, and mine sites and miners who go above and beyond expectations are acknowledged at a host of state, regional, and national events, including at the NvMA convention. Honoring the safest workers has been a personal highlight during my tenure as President.

The refresher training left plenty to consider, and it’s always great to see and discuss just how important safety is in mining. However, safety is something that extends beyond the workplace. As spring continues to make its presence known, those of us who call Northern Nevada home are fully aware that April and May can bring 80 degree days and six inches of snow in the same week. As a result, roads may be slicker than normal, even if they don’t appear to be wet. For those preparing to do the thankless task of spring cleaning at home, use proper lifting and ladder safety techniques to ensure that a hard to reach box doesn’t put you out of commission.

Taking the time to think through a task, even if performed thousands of times before, can be the difference between a productive day and a trip to the doctor’s office.

I hope you have a fantastic month, enjoy the great weather when it’s available, and stay warm when it’s not. Most importantly, stay safe.

Cheers!
Dana