MSHA stands for the Mine Safety and Health Administration and is the governing body for all health and safety concerns within the mining industry. MSHA was developed in 1977 as part of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act (Mine Act). Within MSHA there are many divisions with different responsibilities. MSHA is federally funded, and the agency invests much of its resources into training and research for mine safety.

On a mine site, MSHA makes a minimum of 2 inspections per year for surface mines, and 4 inspections for underground mines; "spot" inspections can also be conducted. MSHA inspection are conducted without prior notice and can result in fines, citations, and/or orders.

Figure: MSHA has an organizational structure including district offices and divisions within the administration.