Next week, nearly 90 mine rescue teams representing companies from 12 states will put their emergency skills to the test in the 2013 national coal mine rescue, first aid, bench and preshift competition in Columbus, Ohio.

Sponsored by the National Mining Association and administered by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the four-day competition includes team and individual events as well as exhibits from companies and suppliers of coal mining equipment and services.

In the field competition, teams must solve a hypothetical mine emergency problem. They are also rated on how well they adhere to mine rescue procedures and how quickly they complete specific tasks.

In the bench contest, miners must ensure that equipment, such as multi-gas instruments and self-contained breathing apparatuses, work properly.

First-aid contestants need to demonstrate the correct method of caring for an injured miner and preshift examiners are evaluated based on how proficiently they identify potential hazards before the start of a shift.

The competition will be held on September 9-12 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.