April 4, 2025 - SME is greatly disappointed to see the ongoing widespread Reductions in Force (RIFs) occurring at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), especially as it pertains to the many employees whose tireless research and other critical work ensures the safety of our country's vast mining industry workforce. 

Mining remains amongst the most safety sensitive and essential occupations, with workers being relied upon for a steady supply of minerals that are currently supporting energy independence, national defense and countless other cutting-edge technologies that make modern life possible.

In addition, mining schools in the US often receive a majority of their research funding from NIOSH. This research funding focuses on improving worker safety through developments in automation and other key innovations. Without these funds, mining engineering departments that are competing for students, professors, and other university resources find themselves facing greater shortages than ever.

We pledge to continue leveraging every resource at our disposal to educate and inform the public about NIOSH's essential functions, which are absolutely necessary in an era where mining activity on US soil will have to increase in order to meet forecasted mineral demands. To the individuals affected, many of whom are SME members, we promise to remain an unwavering advocate for your contributions, which have made mining practices in the United States the safest and most sustainable in the world.

You can learn more about our position on this matter by visiting SME's Media Center.