Last week, the Nevada Mining Association and the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s (MSHA) Rocky Mountain and Western Districts hosted the Sixth Annual Joint Western Regional Mine Safety and Health Conference.  The event, held at the Peppermill Resort Casino in Reno, was attended by more than 400 people.  The annual conference explores ways to improve health and safety in mining and related industries while providing networking opportunities among a variety of industry professionals.

Keynote speakers included Joe Main, Assistant Secretary of MSHA and Bruce Watzman of the National Mining Association.  The conference also featured 35 exhibitors and outdoor live demonstrations of firefighter robots and fire suppressing foam cannons.

A variety of breakout sessions were held featuring several mining safety experts with topics such as safety communications, dust monitoring and control, safety leadership, contractor safety and workman’s compensation. 

There was also an awards luncheon where several industry awards were handed out including:

• Distinguished Safety Professional, Richard Tucker (Newmont)
• Life Saver, Justo Lopez (Marigold)
• 25 Years No Loss Time Accident, Simplot Phosphates (Vernal Mine – Utah)

Overall, the conference was a success and the association is looking forward to another great conference next year in Las Vegas.

Save the Date!  The seventh annual conference will be held at Green Valley Ranch on Oct. 25-26, 2011.