The event is being hosted at the Clarion Resort on the Lake in Hot Springs and has been organised by the group with help from the state’s mining industry and the US Mine Safety and Health Administration.

“The purpose of the conference is to provide a forum for the mining community to focus on mine safety and health concerns,” the coordinators said in a recent announcement, adding that it would be beneficial to the entire industry across mining types, including mine managers, superintendents, safety directors, state and federal agencies, industry representatives, and others related to safety and health.

The conference will begin at 8am local time each day and vendor booths will also be available at the site. The technical sessions will include:

Arc Flash - Michael Pruitt (MSHA);

Arkansas Top 10 MSHA Violations - Todd Thornton (Acme Brick) and Shane Weatherford (Stratcor);

Blasting Safety - Jeff Fowler and Tyler Smith (Austin Powder);

Contractor Issues - Edwin Tucker (Acme Brick);

Hand Safety - Terry Bryant (Safety and Environmental Association);

Hearing Safety - Rocky McKinney (MSHA); and

MSHA Updates - Edward Lopez (MSHA).

MSHA’s Michael Van Dom will also chair an open forum for questions and answers by guests. Southern Tire’s Jason Campbell will also present on tyre safety.

The event’s organisers have requested registration by January 16, though it will also offer onsite sign-ups.

For more information, contact the Arkansas Department of Labor.