Mine Safety and Health Administration to require professionalism training for inspectors, specialists to improve engagement with mine operators

Mine Safety and Health Administration | September 18, 2026

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration has announced the implementation of an annual and comprehensive training course for all inspectors to ensure all interactions with stakeholders are consistently professional.

To reinforce the importance of positive stakeholder relations, MSHA developed a "professionalism" course for agency employees performing inspections and responding to mine accidents, hazard complaints, and general inquiries. Topics cover a myriad of scenarios, from day-to-day interactions with miners and mine managers to accident investigations.

"These courses are an essential refresher for our field staff and an important way to demonstrate to the mining industry that we are listening and understand their perspective," said Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health Wayne Palmer. "Our relationship with the mining industry is crucial to the health and safety of miners, and we want to be sure our employees conduct themselves professionally at every turn."

Subjects included in the course include:

• Competence and sound judgment
• Fostering respect
• Dedication to miner safety and public service
• Building trust
• The importance of listening skills
• Demonstrating integrity
• Fair and impartial treatment

Congress granted MSHA significant, exclusive authority to enhance the safety and health of miners. The agency is committed to carrying out its mission with the highest standards of professionalism, dignity, and respect.

Those from the mining industry with questions and concerns should reach out to [email protected] or call 202-693-9400.

Learn more about MSHA.

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