There is an allure to mining that comes from the days of the great gold rush. Average men and women striking it rich, but there are also the safety worries associated with coal and other types of mining. A mine worker is someone proficient at removing coal, minerals, non-minerals from the ground.
It could include anything from rare Earth metals to diamonds and more. If you want to know how to become a miner, then we’ve put together an article that provides information on what you need both physically and educationally.
This guide provides general mining information, so you can decide if the career is right for you.
How to Become a Miner: Physical Requirements
Mining isn’t an easy job like sitting behind a desk. It requires hard physical labor for long periods. Mines are small, cramped areas with tight spaces, which makes it unfit for anyone with claustrophobia. You are required to lift and move heavy objects as well as operate heavy machinery.
Anyone with a heart condition or is physically unfit may want to reconsider their career choice.
Education Requirements for Miners
The Mine Safety and Health Administration has a training course you must pass before becoming a professional miner. If you want to be an underground miner, then you need 32 hours of classroom training and 8 hours of training at a mine site.
If you want to be a surface miner, then you need 24 hours of in-class instruction and 8 hours at a mine site. There may be additional tasks and training needed for the various mining specialties such as gold or diamond mining.
If you want to learn more about the program, then check out the MSHA Part 48 refresher. It helps you understand what the course covers and the requirements.
Get Mining Experience
Once you’ve passed the test, you become an apprentice with an experienced miner. You must be supervised at all times for at least six months before seeking miner certification. The goal is to provide on-the-job training that prepares you for going solo.
They expect you to follow all rules and regulations and learn the safe and proper way to mine. Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship training, you move on to certification.
Mining Certification
You’ve passed the initial course and received your experience. You’re ready to begin working on your own. The general coal miner certification is for underground miners and the surface general coal miner certification is for surface miners.
The certification requirements for each state are different, but they all require passing an exam. You must have 8 hours of refresher training every year to maintain your status.
Mining as an Occupation
Mining isn’t for everyone. It can be a difficult job with safety risks. It can also be incredibly fulfilling and enjoyable. We hope this guide helped you understand how to become a miner and you can begin your journey.
If you want to know more about mining, certification, and the different types of mining then please explore our site.
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