A U.S. Federal agency under the U.S. Department of Labor. Their mission is to administer the provisions of the Federal Mine Safety & Health Act of 1977. Additional Info: MSHA uses mandatory safety and health standards as a means to eliminate fatal accidents; to reduce the frequency and severity of nonfatal accidents; to minimize health hazards; and to promote improved safety and health conditions in the Nation's mines. MSHA carries out the mandates of the Mine Act at all mining and mineral processing operations in the United States, regardless of size, number of employees, commodity mined, or method of extraction. The MSHA Approval and Certification Center approves and certifies certain mining products for use in underground coal and gassy underground metal mines. MSHA approvals issued by the Center is internationally recognized. The MHSA has faced criticism and challenges concerning recent mining disasters in the US. The agency has dealt with shrinking budgets and staffing while major coal companies have been gumming up the enforcement process with thousands of appeals meant to delay fines and compliance. Federal legislation is required to resolve these issues, however, such action has long been stymied by special interests and worker fears of losing their jobs. In the meantime, the health and safety of mine workers remains at risk. MSDS Relevance: You might See: The term MSHA used on a material safety data sheet in reference to respirators. Both NIOSH and MSHA have respirator specifications. See also: Administrative Controls, Engineering Controls, NIOSH, OSHA, Respirator