The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) recognize the benefits of a cooperative alliance to improve safety and health conditions at mines throughout the United States.

MSHA and ASSE hereby form an Alliance to use their collaborative efforts and expertise to protect miners, promote best practices, and encourage mine operators to develop and utilize safety and health management programs.

MSHA and ASSE will work cooperatively through the Alliance to provide outreach, communication, and professional development opportunities regarding mine safety and health by:

• Developing and disseminating information on mine safety and health at appropriate conferences and through print/electronic media, and the MSHA and ASSE websites; and
  
  
• Participating at conferences, meetings and other key events where mine safety and health issues are proactively addressed.

MSHA and ASSE will designate representatives to develop a plan of action, determine appropriate procedures and identify the respective roles and responsibilities of the participants. In addition, the Alliance will meet periodically to share information and determine the status of activities and evaluate results. Unless otherwise extended, this Alliance will continue in effect until December 31, 2004. Either signatory may terminate the Alliance for any reason at any time, provided 30 days written notice is given. This Agreement may be modified at any time with the concurrence of both signatories.

Dave Lauriski Assistant Secetary of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration

Mark Hansen President American Society of Safety Engineers