The National Mining Association (NMA), the U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), recognized outstanding achievements in environmental stewardship and technology at an awards ceremonies on Oct. 21, in Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Department of the Interior recognized two coal companies, two hardrock companies and one equipment manufacturer for their outstanding environmental performance, mine reclamation accomplishments and community outreach programs.

OSMRE 2019 winners include:

• Good Neighbor Award: Navajo Mine, Navajo Transitional Energy.
• Good Neighbor Award: Leer Mine Complex, Arch Coal.
• National Award: Vermilion Grove Mine, Peabody.
• National Award: Kayenta Mine, Peabody.

BLM 2019 winners include:
• Mine Legacy Steward Award (formerly Fix a Shaft Award), Newmont U.S.A. Limited.
• The Hardrock Mineral Community Outreach and Economic Security Award, Barrick.
• The Hardrock Environmental Award, Graymont – Indian Creek Mine.
• Small Operator Award, Goldnuts, LLC.

Technology

In addition, NIOSH recognized this year’s Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovations Awards winners. Honorees were selected due to the significant advancements they have made to enhance mine safety by applying technology or improved processes in innovative ways.
The following companies were recognized:

• Safescape was recognized for developing the Laddertube, a safer, more durable and easier-to-climb escapeway ladder than a traditional steel or timber option.
• The Gillette College Industry Safety Training Center was recognized for developing a stand-alone blind spot awareness training, which uses 360-degree photos from an operating mine, GoPro and drone footage, and virtual reality technology, to allow users to virtually experience blind spots from within 10 pieces of commonly used equipment in coal mines.

Photo: Peabody Energy’s Kayenta Mine.