MSHA Launches Enforcement Initiative Targeting Silica Exposure in Mines
The agency will increase inspections and monitoring at high-risk sites to reduce miners’ exposure to respirable crystalline silica and prevent serious occupational illnesses.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Apr 29, 2026
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has launched a new enforcement initiative focused on reducing miners’ exposure to respirable crystalline silica, the agency announced Tuesday.
The initiative will prioritize inspections and compliance assistance at mines where silica exposure poses the greatest risk, particularly in metal and nonmetal operations. MSHA said the effort is aimed at protecting workers from serious health conditions, including silicosis, lung cancer and other respiratory diseases linked to prolonged silica exposure.
The agency will increase sampling and monitoring activities and work with mine operators to ensure controls such as ventilation, water sprays and dust suppression systems are effectively implemented. MSHA officials emphasized that enforcement actions will be taken when violations are identified.
The announcement follows the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen protections for miners and reduce occupational illness risks across the industry.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.