MSHA's Spring Thaw 2012 schedule lists several mine safety and health workshops available to workers to raise awareness of mining hazards. MSHA reports that the courses coincide with the end of winter because data shows that incidents tend to increase in April and May. This may be because mine operations begin producing again at this time, sometimes with new employees who may be new to the mining industry, MSHA says.
The workshops are free and some will feature mining industry professionals and MSHA representatives who will share their insight.