Washington D.C. – March 18, 2021 – Following the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) release of expanded, comprehensive guidance for creating COVID-19 safe mining and cement manufacturing environments, Portland Cement Association (PCA) Senior Vice President, Government Affairs Sean O’Neill released the following statement:

“Protecting our workforce during the COVID-19 emergency has been job number one for US cement manufacturers. The men and women of the cement industry, from our quarries to our cement plants and shipping operations, are designated as Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers. PCA and its member companies are committed to protecting miners and their families while continuing to provide critical building materials needed to maintain and improve our nation’s vital infrastructure.”

Over the last year, cement facilities have instituted comprehensive mitigation strategies tailored to the unique footprint and diverse range of operations across each facility. These strategies have drawn from the valuable and evolving guidance provided by MSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control.

MSHA’s new expanded guidance will provide cement facilities and miners with another valuable and flexible resource in adapting to the constantly changing COVID-19 threat.

Learn more about the industry's commitment to safety here.

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The Portland Cement Association (PCA), founded in 1916, is the premier policy, research, education, and market intelligence organization serving America’s cement manufacturers. PCA members represent over 90% of U.S. cement production capacity and have facilities in all 50 states. The association promotes safety, sustainability, and innovation in all aspects of construction, fosters continuous improvement in cement manufacturing and distribution, and generally promotes economic growth and sound infrastructure investment. For more information, visit www.cement.org.