The two organisations will work together to make safety a top priority in the mining industry, and address the needs of mine workers and mining companies.

Lauriski signed the new Alliance Agreement with NSC President and CEO Alan C. McMillan on Tuesday.

Under the agreement MSHA and the NSC will identify ways to enhance participation of the NSC's Mining and Minerals Resources Section in safety and health outreach to industry; collaborate on developing and conducting technical sessions at a variety of events and conferences; and work collaboratively to present clear and accurate statistical information on mining and minerals operations in the United States.

In addition, the alliance will enhance the existing relationship between MSHA and the NSC in the in the "Stay Out-Stay Alive" (SOSA) partnership, which educates young people and their parents about the hazards of playing in and around active or inactive mines.