How to Train New Miners Under Part 46

Updated on November 19, 2025 by MSC

Starting a mining operation or hiring new miners means more than putting boots on the ground—it means ensuring every worker has the knowledge and training to stay safe and compliant. Understanding how to train new miners under Part 46 is one of the most important steps for mine operators, supervisors, and contractors working at surface mining sites regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).

Whether you’re new to MSHA or refreshing your training program, this guide will help you confidently train, document, and protect your workforce according to MSHA Part 46 training requirements.

MSHA Part 46 Training Requirements Explained

MSHA Part 46 establishes federal training standards for miners who work at surface nonmetal mines, including sand, gravel, limestone, marble, shale, and clay operations. These rules are designed to reduce workplace accidents and ensure miners understand site-specific hazards before beginning work.

Under Part 46, mine operators are required to:

• Develop a written training plan before training begins.
• Provide new miner training (24 hours total) within 90 days of hire.
• Conduct annual refresher training (8 hours each year).
• Deliver task and site-specific training as needed.
• Keep detailed training records for each miner.

MSHA inspectors frequently review training plans and documentation during inspections, so accuracy and consistency are key.

Who Qualifies as a “New Miner” Under Part 46?

A “new miner” under Part 46 includes anyone who has never worked at a mine site before or who has been away from mining for more than 12 months. This category covers a wide range of workers—from brand-new hires and contractors entering the industry for the first time to experienced miners returning after a long absence. Even office staff, maintenance personnel, or other employees who spend time in operational areas may be considered new miners if they will be exposed to mining hazards. For these individuals, completing new miner training is a critical first step before they can safely enter the work environment.

MSHA’s Required Topics for New Miner Training

Part 46 outlines specific subjects that must be covered during new miner training. These ensure every worker understands both general and site-specific hazards.

Key topics include:

• Introduction to the mine environment.
• Recognition and avoidance of common hazards.
• Emergency procedures and evacuation plans.
• Health and safety standards and policies.
• Ground control and highwall safety.
• Electrical, mobile equipment, and conveyor safety.
• Miner rights and responsibilities under the Mine Act.
• First aid and accident reporting procedures.

Operators may also include additional subjects that address the unique risks of their mine site.

How Many Hours of Training Must New Miners Receive?

Every new miner must complete 24 hours of training within their first 90 days of employment. However, at least four hours must be completed before they start working.

The remaining 20 hours can be delivered gradually while the miner gains experience on the job, as long as all hours are completed within the 90-day window.

This flexibility allows operators to balance production with safety without delaying onboarding.

What Training Must Be Completed Before Starting Work?

Before a new miner begins any type of work activity, they must complete four hours of introductory training. This initial session introduces them to the mine environment, explains the hazards they’ll encounter, and walks them through essential safety practices. It also ensures that workers understand the mine’s emergency evacuation procedures, reporting methods, and their basic rights under federal mining law. By completing this orientation before entering active areas, new miners start their job with a clear understanding of how to stay safe from day one.

Who Can Conduct New Miner Training Under Part 46?

Under MSHA rules, new miner training must be delivered by a competent person—someone designated by the operator who has the necessary knowledge and experience in the topics they are teaching. Competent persons may be supervisors, safety managers, or experienced miners with the proper background, and many operators also rely on third-party MSHA training providers or consultants. Each training plan must clearly identify the individuals or job titles responsible for instruction, and these designated trainers must sign off on the completed training certificate to verify that the miner received proper instruction.

Can New Miner Training Be Completed Online?

Online MSHA Part 46 training has become a widely used solution because it offers flexibility, consistency, and reliable documentation. Many operators and contractors rely on online modules to deliver new miner training, annual refresher content, and hazard awareness lessons. Reputable online providers supply proof of completion and allow operators to download a compliant Form 5000-23 for their records. While online training effectively covers general safety principles, mine operators are still responsible for ensuring that site-specific instruction is conducted in person at the mine.

How to Document New Miner Training Correctly

Accurate recordkeeping is essential for MSHA compliance. Every training session must be documented using either:

• MSHA Form 5000-23, or
• An equivalent company training record containing all the same information.

Records must include:

• The miner’s name and ID.
• Date, subject, and duration of training.
• Instructor’s name and signature.
• A signed acknowledgment by the trainee.

All records must be kept on file for at least two years and available for inspection at any time.

Common Mistakes That Lead to MSHA Violations

Many operators unintentionally fall into compliance traps that result in MSHA citations. Common mistakes include failing to maintain an approved written training plan, not completing the full 24-hour new miner requirement, allowing miners to begin work without receiving the mandatory four-hour introductory training, and keeping incomplete or unsigned training records. Another frequent issue is assigning training duties to individuals who do not meet MSHA’s qualifications for a competent person. Avoiding these pitfalls helps protect your operation from fines and reinforces a proactive safety culture.

Best Practices to Stay Compliant and Protect Your Operation

Consistency is key when it comes to Part 46 compliance. Follow these best practices to keep your operation inspection-ready year-round:

1. Review and update your training plan annually.
2. Use standardized templates for training records.
3. Verify that competent persons are clearly designated.
4. Maintain digital backups of certificates and plans.
5. Conduct internal audits before MSHA inspections.

Regularly reviewing your procedures ensures that compliance doesn’t fall through the cracks.

Training Templates and Tools for Part 46: Save Time and Stay Compliant

Operators still relying on paper systems often find training management inefficient and prone to errors. Digital tools and templates streamline the process by offering customizable training plan formats, automated tracking for training hours and refresher deadlines, and instant certificate generation after completion. With secure cloud storage, operators can access records quickly during inspections and avoid the challenges associated with lost paperwork. These tools not only enhance efficiency but also strengthen compliance across the entire operation.

Your Next Steps for Part 46 Training

Understanding how to train new miners under Part 46 lays the foundation for a safer, more compliant operation. Now that you understand the requirements, it’s time to put your training program into action. Reviewing your current training plan, confirming your designated competent persons, and considering digital training systems can help streamline your compliance efforts. Scheduling refresher and site-specific training well in advance also ensures you never fall behind. By following these steps, you’ll protect your workforce, reduce the risk of costly violations, and build a safety culture that supports long-term success.