Mining Safety in 2024 / 2025
As we step into 2025, recent workplace safety statistics from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) highlight both progress and ongoing challenges in the mining industry. In 2024, the U.S. mining sector recorded 28 fatalities, marking one of the lowest fatality rates in history, only surpassed by the 25 incidents reported in 2019. Encouragingly, the year ended on a positive note with zero fatalities in December, a testament to improved safety protocols and compliance measures (1).
However, the early days of 2025 have already seen 5 mining-related deaths by January 31st, serving as a stark reminder that safety must remain a top priority.
Unexpected Risks: Where Mining Fatalities Actually Occur
A critical and often misunderstood fact about mining safety is that the majority of incidents are not occurring underground, as commonly believed. In fact, over 78% of the fatalities in 2024 happened above ground or in mining facilities, rather than within the mines themselves. This data underscores the importance of comprehensive safety planning and training across all aspects of mining operations, from processing plants to transportation hubs, where hazards may be less obvious but equally dangerous.
Why Safety Planning is More Important Than Ever
For workplace safety managers, this serves as an urgent call to action. Whether in mining or other high-risk industries, ensuring that every job site, not just those perceived as high-risk, is compliant and well-prepared is critical.
Moreover, with the evolving regulatory landscape under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), businesses must stay informed to shifts in policies and enforcement priorities.
How ETC Can Help
At ETC, we take a holistic approach to workplace safety, offering consulting and training solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses across various industries, including mining. Our safety experts bring years of on-the-job experience from the field, witnessing firsthand the consequences of both effective and insufficient safety planning.
We encourage workplace safety managers to take a proactive approach by reviewing their current safety strategies and considering a consultation with one of our experts. Our team is here to provide insights, training, and strategic planning to ensure compliance and, most importantly, protect the well-being of your workforce.
Get Started Today
Don’t wait for the next incident to reevaluate your safety measures. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced safety professionals and ensure your operations are set up for a safer and more compliant 2025.
Visit ETC to learn more and get in touch with our team today.
Sources:
(1) https://www.msha.gov/data-and-reports/fatality-reports/search
