Scheduled for March 25 through 27, the second yearly gathering will offer a greater level of mining-specific sessions, according to the sponsoring school. Training, including completion certifications for MSHA, OSHA and the American Red Cross, will be available for attendees.

“This highly successful and well-offered event is an excellent way of training … in safe practices that are relevant to our regional industry," the organisers said.

“The focus of training will provide the tools necessary to reduce injuries, illnesses and fatalities."

Courses on offer include:

MSHA 8-Hour Underground Refresher

MSHA 8-Hour Surface Refresher

Basic Hydraulics

MSHA Record Keeping

MSHA Emergency Response

Ergonomics in the Workplace

Leadership and Team Building

Behavioural Safety Training

Substance Abuse

A special allocation of funding has permitted the 2008 event to be free of charge for guests, the organisers said recently, and operators, contractors and other related organisations are asked to take part.

More information on the conference can be found at the Western Energy Training Center website: www.westernenergytraining.org