Pictured above, left to right: Mike Alms, Dan Meier, Loretta Fondaw, Raul Guillermo, Jacob Montgomery, Travis Schaeffer, Marcus Tso, Dan Wiedwilt, Mark Baue, and Paul Dunk.
The mine rescue team plays an important role in disaster preparedness at Prairie State’s Lively Grove Mine. According to Mark Baue, “The main goal of this team is to act quickly and safely, protecting our people and assets in case of emergency.” This team is also prepared to assist neighboring mines, if needed.
Between October and March, the team practices at least eight hours every other month to meet standards set by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). From April to September, they practice multiple times during the month to prepare for competitions.
MSHA standards also require mine rescue teams to provide tours to neighboring mines. Twice each year, the Lively Grove mine rescue team tours the Gateway North mine and the Knight Hawk mine, along with providing tours of the Lively Grove mine to neighboring mine rescue teams.
By the end of 2019, the team will have competed in two skills competitions and five mine rescue competitions, including the National Mine Rescue Championship held in Lexington, Kentucky.
At Prairie State, we value safety for every person, at every level, every day. We thank our mine rescue team for working hard to ensure the safety of our employees.