ODNR to Build New Mine Safety Training Simulator

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, OH – Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director James Zehringer announced today that ODNR will build a new mine safety training center in eastern Ohio. ODNR requests proposals from community and business leaders with potential locations for the new center. It is very important for businesses to put in motion safety training practices as this can help prevent injuries and issues at work that can cause even bigger ramifications.

“It is our duty at ODNR to ensure that Ohio’s dedicated miners have the training necessary to return home to their families at the end of each shift,” said Zehringer. “We are committed to the safety of Ohio miners, and this new mine safety training center will ensure our miners have a safe facility in which to train.”

Two million dollars in funding to build the new center was included in the capital budget recently signed by Governor Kasich. When completed, the new mine training center will include a simulated underground coal mine, training rooms and space to hold federally required mine safety competitions.

ODNR requests proposals for potential locations for the new center be submitted to the Department by Tuesday, July 15. ODNR is looking for approximately 10-15 acres with enough space for a building to house classrooms, the new mine simulator and ample outdoor space to hold mine safety competitions. Proposals can include acreage with already constructed buildings or land suitable to build.

Proposal evaluation will be based on: location, accessibility, cost, available utilities and development costs.

A list of the guidelines is available on ODNR’s website or by calling the ODNR Office of Real Estate at 614-265-6382.

Until the new facility is built, mine safety training courses will continue to be held at ODNR’s current mine safety facility in Cadiz.