You don’t want to get rejected for performing your wrong training. So, if you are new and trying to navigate which is the best MSHA new miner training online, it can be tough. On top of that, the differences between Part 46 and Part 48 training can be quite confusing.
To help you have a better grasp of what exactly MSHA parts 46 and 48, we have compiled this blog for you. Read till the end to get a better understanding of it.
What is MSHA Training?
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all miners and mining contractors to undergo specific safety training. However, the type of training depends on the kind of mine you are working in. If you pick the wrong training, it could mean non-compliance, hefty fines, or, worse—being unprepared for the real risks that come with mining.
What’s the Difference Between MSHA Part 46 and Part 48 Training?
MSHA splits training into two primary categories: Part 46 and Part 48. Both exist to keep miners safe, but the type of mine you work at determines which one you need.
Part 46 covers surface mining operations such as sand, gravel, limestone, and cement. If you work at a surface mine that extracts materials used in construction or industrial processes, this is the training for you.
Part 48 is for miners working in underground operations or surface mines dealing with coal, metal, and non-metal mining. This category includes higher-risk environments where hazards can be significantly more dangerous.
Do You Need MSHA Part 46 Training?
Let’s say you are working in surface mining operations like:
- Sand and gravel pits
- Limestone quarries
- Granite mines
Other types of non-metal surface mining
If any of these sound familiar, then MSHA Part 46 training is your golden ticket to compliance. This training includes:
- New Miner Training (24 hours required for new hires)
- Annual Refresher Training (8 hours yearly to maintain certification)
- Site-specific hazard Training (to prepare you for unique risks at a particular mine)
Do You Need MSHA Part 48 Training?
Now, if your job involves underground mining or surface coal mines, Part 48 is where you belong.
This training is broken into two subcategories:
- Part 48 Subpart A: For underground coal, metal, and non-metal mining
- Part 48 Subpart B: For surface coal mines and other high-risk mining operations.
Why You Can’t Ignore MSHA Training Requirements
Skipping the proper training isn’t just breaking the rules; it’s putting yourself and your coworkers at serious risk.
Here’s what happens if you don’t comply with MSHA regulations:
- Fines and penalties – MSHA doesn’t play around. If your employer is found non-compliant, they could face hefty fines that can reach thousands of dollars.
- Job loss – Many mining companies won’t even let you step on-site without proper training.
- Accidents and injuries – The real cost of skipping training? Fatal mistakes that could’ve been prevented with the right education.
Where to Get MSHA Training That Actually Works for You
Now that you know whether you need MSHA Part 46 or Part 48, the next step is finding the right training program. You don’t want just any training—you want something that’s affordable, accessible, and MSHA-compliant.
That’s where Industrial Consulting & Training comes in. We provide various MSHA new miner training online classes to help you. Our classes include:
- Underground New Miner Part 48A
- Surface New Miner Part 48B
- Sand & Gravel New Miner Part 46
- Underground Part 48A Annual Refresher/Experienced Miner
- Surface Part 48B Annual Refresher/Experienced Miner
- Sand & Gravel Part 46 Annual Refresher
Which Training Do You Need?
If you are still not sure which MSHA training you need, ask yourself these simple questions:
- Do I work in an underground mine? If yes, you need Part 48 training.
- Am I working in a surface mine extracting sand, gravel, limestone, or similar materials? If yes, you need Part 46 training.
- Am I working in a coal mine, whether underground or surface? If yes, you need Part 48 training.
If you’re new to the industry and need to get certified, MSHA new miner training online is the fastest way to get started. If you already have your certification, don’t forget that MSHA refresher training is required every year to stay compliant.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, choosing the right MSHA training is not just about meeting legal requirements. Rather, it’s about ensuring you go home safely at the end of every shift. Whether you need MSHA Part 46 for surface mining or MSHA Part 48 for underground operations, proper training is non-negotiable. Check out our various classes available at Industrial Consulting & Training and enroll in MSHA new miner training online today.