News
IMAA Hosts a Conversation with MSHA’s David Zatezalo
On July 9th, IMAA hosted representatives from MSHA including Assistant Secretary David Zatezalo, Senior Advisor Ed Elliot, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Operations Pat Silvey, District Manager Ron Burns, and Mooresville Field Office Manager Donnie Lewis.
The morning consisted of a breakfast meet and greet with IMAA members and the MSHA representatives, as well as a presentation from MSHA. Both Mr. Zatezalo and Ms. Silvey lauded the efforts made by MSHA and Industry to dramatically reduce the number of fatalities and reportable injuries over the last ten years. They also covered MSHA’s current initiatives including powered haulage safety, belt conveyors, seat belt safety, the scofflaw initiative, and One MSHA. Afterward, IMAA Executive Director Calvin Lee moderated a panel discussion where members had an opportunity to ask questions of the MSHA representatives in attendance.
One of the biggest takeaways from the morning was the explanation of One MSHA. In an effort to provide more efficient use of resources, MSHA is blurring the distinction between coal and metal/non-metal enforcement. They explained that they are cross training inspectors and updating systems to accommodate the change where it makes sense. One of the changes is moving the reporting of the Mooresville field office from the North Central district office in Duluth to the Vincennes office.
IMAA would like to thank the Safety Committee for helping to arrange this meeting and the representatives of MSHA for traveling to Indiana to discuss current issues and initiatives with the IMAA membership.