A professional who inspects underground or open-pit mining areas and trains mine personnel to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and accepted mining practices designed to prevent mine accidents. Responsibilities include:

• Inspects mine workings to detect unsafe timbers, cribbing, roof bolts, electric wiring, elevators, explosives storage, equipment, and working conditions.
• Examines walls and roof surfaces for evidence of strata faults indicating cave-in or rock slide hazards.
• Tests air to detect concentrations of toxic gases and explosive dusts, using safety lamp, methane detector, carbon monoxide register, and anemometer.
• Recommends alteration or installation of ventilation shafts, partitions, or equipment to remedy inadequate air circulation of air-conditioning.
• Applies principles of mining engineering and human engineering to design protective equipment and safety devices for mine machinery.
• Gives instructions to mine personnel in safe working practices and first aid, and strives to promote and maintain safety-mindedness of workers.
• Investigates explosions, fires, and accidents and reports causes and recommendations for remedial action to insurance companies, mine management, and state authorities.
• May lead rescue activities during emergencies and maintain rescue equipment.