Bentonite Safety & Reclamation

Safety

Wyoming mines take safety very seriously, and mine companies around the state have made safety a top priority for Wyoming’s mining industry. As a result, Wyoming mines are repeatedly recognized as some of the safest mining operations in the nation.

All mines employ dedicated safety professionals, and employees are trained in proper safety and practices for a safe work environment.

  • Most mines require further safety training before an employee can start working.
  • Existing employees are required to take an annual one-day safety training course.
  • Every shift starts with walk-around safety inspections.

Working mines are safer than many common occupations, and the U.S. mining industry has made significant strides in improving the health and safety of its workers. It is the result of seven key trends according to the National Mining Association.

  • A commitment by management, workers, and regulators to a goal of zero fatalities and injuries;
  • Better equipment design;
  • Technological advances;
  • Conscientious safety awareness;
  • Improved engineering methods;
  • Advanced and continuous training;
  • Strong oversight and assistance from the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Reclamation

Bentonite reclamation begins by replacing the overburden and blending it with the surrounding landscape. The subsoil and topsoil are replaced, then a variety of native seeds are planted to re-establish the habitat. Often teams will establish water features that will benefit livestock and wildlife, and on average a reclamation effort takes about 5 to 10 years to complete.