The Sentinels of Safety Award winners for 2021 were recognized this month in Washington, D.C. by the National Mining Association (NMA), the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE). 

Sentinels of Safety are awarded to the nation’s safest mines that have successfully reached a minimum of 4,000 injury-free hours. The recognition includes coal and mineral mining operations in 10 categories of both small and large mines. 

This year’s ceremony honored 20 American mining operations – six coal mines and 14 mineral/metal mines – for their performances in 2021. 

“The extraordinary safety accomplishments of these companies serve as a model for all of industry, which is united behind a rigorous dedication to a culture of continuous improvement,” said Rich Nolan, NMA president and CEO. 

“Every mine in this country understands that the complex work we do requires constant vigilance and, through steadfast leadership, strong systems and an ingrained culture of safety, today’s honorees have achieved the ultimate goal: providing a safe environment for their employees.”  Initiated in 1925 by then Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover, a former mining engineer, the Sentinels of Safety Award program remains the nation’s most prestigious recognition of mine safety and has helped foster a strong safety commitment on the part of U.S. mines.

Technology 

During this month’s ceremony, NIOSH also recognized winners with its annual Mine Safety and Health Technology Innovation Awards. Honorees are selected for significant advancements they have made to enhance mine safety by applying technology or improved processes in innovative ways. 

Reclamation 

In addition, OSMRE recognized winners with its annual Excellence in Surface Mining Reclamation Awards, the highest honor given to coal mining companies with exemplary coal mine reclamation in the United States. As is customary, OSMRE honored one recipient with its National Award and one with its Good Neighbor Award.

COMPLETE LIST OF AWARD RECIPIENTS (2021)  To see the complete list of all award winners for 2021, click here to read NMA’s press release.