North Carolina Mining Injury Rates Significantly Reduced

press-releases

Published February 26th, 2026

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley announced a significant reduction in non-fatal and fatal injury rates within the state's mine and quarry industry. The non-fatal injury rate dropped to 0.68 per 200,000 man hours, less than half the national average. These improvements are attributed to agency partnerships, training, and a commitment to safety.

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What changed

The North Carolina Department of Labor has announced a significant decrease in injury rates for the state's mining and quarrying sector. The non-fatal injury rate has fallen from 0.82 to 0.68 per 200,000 man hours, and the fatal injury rate has decreased from 0.358 to 0.270 over the same period. These figures are now substantially lower than the national averages, reflecting successful safety initiatives undertaken by the agency in collaboration with mining companies.

This announcement serves as an informational update on the state's occupational safety performance in the mining industry. While no new regulatory requirements or compliance deadlines are imposed by this press release, it highlights the effectiveness of the NC Department of Labor's Mine and Quarry Bureau's ongoing efforts in promoting workplace safety through training, technical assistance, and consultations. Regulated entities in this sector should note the positive trend and continue to adhere to established safety standards.

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RALEIGH, NC Feb 26, 2026 North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley today announced that the state’s non-fatal injury rate for mine and quarry workers has declined even further, dropping from 0.82 to 0.68 per 200,000 man hours since September. The new rate is less than half the current national average of 1.38.

In addition, the rate of incidents involving fatal injuries has also reduced, falling from 0.358 to 0.270 per 200,000 man hours over the same period.

“These latest numbers show that safety in North Carolina’s mining industry is not only improving — it’s setting the standard,” Commissioner Farley said. “Cutting our non-fatal injury rate and reducing serious incidents even further demonstrates what can be accomplished through our agency's strong partnerships, consistent training, and a shared commitment to safety.”

These improvements build on the continued efforts of the NC Department of Labor’s Mine and Quarry Bureau, which works year-round to promote workplace safety through direct training, technical assistance, on-site consultations, and first aid/CPR instruction.

Currently, 243 active or intermittent mine sites operate across North Carolina. NCDOL collaborates closely with mining companies and contractors to identify hazards, strengthen safety programs, and assist in compliance with state and federal safety standards.

“Every reduction in injury rates represents real people protected from harm,” Farley added. “Our miners, inspectors, and safety professionals deserve credit for embracing a culture where safety comes first. We will continue working to drive these numbers even lower.”

For more information about mine and quarry safety programs, visit www.labor.nc.gov.