Mine rescue teams from around British Columbia came together this past weekend to compete in the 64th annual Provincial Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition.

“This event showcases the skill and professionalism of B.C.’s mine safety and rescue personnel,” said Michelle Mungall, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “Our government has put new resources in place to support mine safety and the frontline workers who are making a difference in communities across the province. Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition for their dedication to mine safety.”

The 2019 competition, hosted by the Province of British Columbia in Williams Lake, was an all-day event that provided an opportunity for teams to not only practice and showcase their skills, but also learn from one another – knowledge that is vital in real rescue situations.

The competition pits teams of mine safety and rescue professionals from throughout the province against one another in head-to-head competitions involving simulated mine rescue situations.

This annual event follows new resources allocated to the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources in Budget 2019 that will improve mine safety for workers and the environment. The ministry now has two expanded mining divisions: the Mines Health, Safety and Enforcement Division and the Mines Competitiveness and Authorizations Division. This supports recommendations from the Mining Jobs Task Force released earlier this year.

Through the ongoing co-operative efforts of mine employees, mine management, unions and regulators, mining continues to be one of the safest heavy industries in B.C. A complete list of the winners follows in the backgrounder below.

Learn More:

Provincial Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/mineral-exploration-mining/health-safety/emergency-preparedness

A backgrounder follows.