The Federal Mine Safety and Health Act (Mine Act) requires that the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) inspect all mines each year to ensure safe and healthy work environments for miners. In addition to setting safety and health standards for preventing hazardous and unhealthy conditions, MSHA's regulations establish requirements for:
- immediate notification by the mine operator of accidents, injuries and illnesses at the mine;
- training programs that meet the requirements of the Mine Act; and
- obtaining approval for certain equipment used in gassy underground mines.
The Mine Act covers all mine operators and miners throughout the United States, including the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
The Black Lung Benefits Program is administered by DOL's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs.