The health and safety of mine employees is constantly monitored by the Mine Safety
and Health Administration (MSHA) which covers employment, production, injuries, illnesses and accidents. The monitoring of these factors is needed for evaluating the existing procedures that are in place in order to keep effective measures in place. Chemicals that are used in the mining process can cause pollution to the environment, people and animals. Chemicals such as cyanide, mercury and methyl mercury which are used to merge the metals and minerals are released into the ocean, rivers and streams. These polluted waters can be the cause of serious health hazards to people as well as aquatic organisms. That is why it is essential that the mining industry have to follow strict safety measures and guidelines to reduce the negative effects on the environment and its people.