The Mine and Industrial Accident Safety Hotline/Tip Line will be managed by the state’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management call center and will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“I want all miners and workers from any other industry in West Virginia to feel empowered to report problems in the workplace without fear of retribution,” Manchin said, noting that callers may choose to remain anonymous.

“This hotline will hopefully encourage more workers to become involved in strengthening safety procedures from the front lines.”

The governor pointed out that using the WVDHSEM for the service will ensure that those receiving calls are independent, and not affiliated with any regulatory agencies. The call center’s staff is also equipped to handle any situation involving life safety.

All received calls will be forwarded to the appropriate agency, whether regulatory or law enforcement, for follow-up. Those agencies will be required to report all issues being addressed back to the WVDHSEM.

“To help prevent future tragedies like last month’s at the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County and to fix unsafe conditions that may cause accidents, injuries or fatalities, we need all levels of mining and industry workforces to play an active role,” Manchin said.

“No one should hesitate to call the safety hotline with concerns – no matter how large or small.”

The West Virginia Mine and Industrial Accident Safety Hotline/Tip Line is now available at 1-866-808-0875.