“MSHA’s 2005 budget is targeted to change the conditions and practices that lend themselves to injuries and fatalities. It emphasizes a balanced approach to mine safety and health – supporting an effective blend of enforcement, technical support, and education and training, with compliance assistance as a common element of all three,” said MSHA assistant secretary Dave Lauriski.
Under the request, $250,000 has been earmarked to update the “Engineering and Design Coal Waste Disposal Facilities Manual”; $700,000 for National Mine Health and Safety Academy maintenance; $500,000 for training and succession for employees; and $250,000 to upgrade emergency community capability and capacity.
Under the IT budget, 750,000 has been designated to telecommunications connectivity; $500,000 for intrusion detection, network auditing, IT security training, and infrastructure upgrades; and $250,000 to develop web-based training modules.