The mining industry has traditionally developed health and safety standards and technology in reaction to adverse events. The University of Arizona Mining Safety Center of Excellence (SCE) is on a mission to change that.
Backed by the university’s strong legacy of mining expertise, the SCE is in an unparalleled position to positively influence the industry’s health and safety outcomes through research and education. We’re forging a safer path forward by bringing together industry experts to proactively improve the health and safety of miners using predictive models, machine learning and innovation.
SCE Research
As the only mine safety center with unfettered access to an underground mining laboratory at university’s San Xavier mine, SCE engineers and scientists have the unique ability to conduct translational research on a variety of health and safety topics ranging from mental health to rescue tactics. Our acclaimed cross-disciplinary faculty from mining and mineral resources, engineering, geology, environmental science and public health are working with stakeholders to achieve zero harm to miners through the discovery, development and promotion of pragmatic and sustainable industry standards and best practices.
Education and Training
The SCE is addressing the mining industry’s severe shortage of health and safety education and training through the development of our own coursework and degree programs. Our current offerings span three focus areas:
Safety
• Emergency Resiliency
• Basic Subterranean Rescue
• Advanced Subterranean Rescue
• Human/Machine Interaction
• Ergonometrics
Health
• Respiratory Exposures
• Noise Exposure Methods
• Thermal Stress Management
• Implementing Zero Harm
• Measures of Behavioral Health
Risk
• Supervisor Leadership
• Blockchains to Mitigate Risk
• Effective Training
• Program Evaluation
• Continuity of Risk Management
Rescue Consortium
While much work remains to be done to achieve zero harm in the mining industry, the SCE is committed to helping save miners from catastrophe in the immediacy. Through the Southwest Mine Rescue Consortium, we provide resources to member companies who may not have enough people to form mine rescue teams. We also provide training on such topics as mining-focused industrial hygiene, how to use data analytics and machine learning for improved outcomes, and self-escape scenarios and evaluation for miners and mine operators.
Become a Member
SCE member organizations are the first to learn about new health and safety research projects and enjoy discounts on our education courses and training programs.