NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovation Awards

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) grants annual awards in four categories for advancements in mining health and safety innovations. The NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovation Awards recognize mines and companies demonstrating exceptional efforts to enhance worker safety and health. Reviewers evaluate entries based on the innovative implementation of technology or improved processes that exceed mandatory requirements. All mining operations that introduce outstanding health and safety technologies are eligible, as are organizations significantly contributing to their implementation. Technology manufacturers may submit nominations if they partner with a mine operator actively involved in developing and adopting the innovation. Eligible submissions should reflect continuing improvement initiatives addressing operational challenges rather than one-time solutions. Qualified mines and companies are welcome to self-nominate. There are four sector-specific awards given each year: (1) coal mining, in collaboration with the National Mining Association (NMA), (2) metal mining, in collaboration with NMA, (3) industrial minerals, in collaboration with Essential Minerals Association (EMA) and (4) sand, stone and gravel, in collaboration with the National Sand, Stone and Gravel Association NSSGA). To nominate a company, send an email to mining@cdc.gov specifying the relevant award sector and addressing the following questions: (1) What problem was addressed? (2) What is the technology and its operational method? (3) How was the technology modified and evaluated for your specific application? (4) What steps were taken to implement the technology at your mine? (5) What health and safety benefits have been realized or are anticipated? (6) Which mining operation or company is utilizing the technology? (6) Who is the primary contact for this submission (include name, email address, phone number)? Supporting materials such as images and diagrams are optional to facilitate understanding of the technology. Submissions do not need to be elaborate and may be written in basic language. NIOSH will request further clarification if needed during the review process. Submissions must be completed by Aug. 15, 2026. The NIOSH Office of Mine Safety and Health Research will monitor all applications and acknowledge those submitted by the deadline. Award recipients will receive written notification of their commendation for inclusion in public communications, prior to association meetings (typically scheduled in early fall).

NIOSH Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovation Awards

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