The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) conducted impact inspections in October 2024 at 15 mines across several states, resulting in the issuance of 286 violations. These inspections target mines with poor compliance histories, past accidents, injuries, illnesses, and other concerns. Among the violations identified, 95 were deemed significant and substantial (S&S), while 12 were found to be unwarrantable failures.
"Miners have the right to work in a safe and healthy environment," stated Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health Chris Williamson. He emphasized that safety must be a core organizational value. Williamson noted that the inspection at Atalco Gramercy LLC’s Gramercy Operation revealed ongoing hazards and a culture disregarding miner safety.
The Gramercy Operation, an alumina facility in Louisiana, was inspected due to its enforcement history and hazard complaints. It is one of two mines under a pattern of violations notice from MSHA, highlighting chronic safety issues such as caustic spills. Since July 2023, the mine has received numerous withdrawal orders and experienced severe accidents.
A fatal incident on August 4, 2024, involving chemical burns prompted further investigation by MSHA. On October 7, Assistant Secretary Williamson expressed significant concerns about safety standards at the mine in a letter to Atlantic Alumina's president. Meetings followed with Atalco Gramercy management to discuss improvements.
The two-day inspection on October 28-29 found 60 violations of mandatory standards, including S&S violations and unwarrantable failures. Inspectors reported multiple hazardous conditions such as accumulations of caustic liquid and unsafe equipment practices.
These findings indicate systemic safety failures at Gramercy Operation. Despite previous enforcement actions, hazardous conditions persist between inspections. This underscores the need for commitment from corporate officers and employees to enhance the mine's safety culture.
