Emerging Issues

Stay aware of pertinent current and emerging research, including international research, and be prepared to act on potential health and safety issues.

Be prepared to deal with issues associated with increased remote control and automated equipment and systems.

Be prepared to provide recommendations to safeguard health and safety as best strategies for mining deep resources are developed.

Address the health effects of mixed exposures, such as diesel exhaust, hydrocarbons, and noise, as well as the combined effects of mixed noise (continuous and impulse-impact) environments.

Consider the extent and effects of radon and radiation exposure in the presence of other potential chemical agents as the United States increases its reliance on nuclear energy.

The Mining Program should seriously attend to workforce replacement issues expected within its own organization in the short term to ensure a supply of capable researchers as its older researchers retire.