59th Annual Mine Rescue Demonstrates First Rate Commitment to Health and Safety

June 10, 2014

SMITHERS – The Mining Association of BC was pleased to be a part of the 59th Annual Provincial Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition last week.  Mine Rescue took place in Smithers on June 7th with 17 teams, representing mining operations from across BC, taking part in the competition.

The competition is divided into three categories, including: Surface, Underground and Three Person First Aid and features life-like simulations that test skills in firefighting, first aid, rope rescue, extrication and general mine rescue knowledge.

Major Category Competition Winners:

Three Person First Aid – Huckleberry Mines

Surface Mine Rescue –  Gibraltar Mines, Elkview Operations, Highland Valley Copper

Underground Mine Rescue – Quinsam Coal, New Gold Inc. New Afton, Nystar-Myra Falls

The detailed list of results from the 59th Annual Provincial Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition is available here: http://www.mining.bc.ca/our-focus/mine-rescue-bc

MABC would like to recognize the incredible commitment to safety and best practices demonstrated by all competitors.

“British Columbia has a long history of mine rescue and the mine rescue teams and personnel not only keep their fellow workers safe at the mine, but also contribute to the health and safety of their communities.  We are proud of the mining industry’s track record as one of the safest heavy industries and our sector-wide commitment to continuous improvement”, said Karina Briño, President and CEO of the Mining Association of BC.

The Chief Inspector, Al Hoffman, also took time following the competition to recognize four senior mines inspectors for outstanding contributions over a career.  MABC would like to congratulate and recognize Doug Flynn, Stephen Rothman, Ed Taje and Phil Pascuzzi for their dedication to making sure all BC miners work safely every day.