Certification Exam Practice Questions

MSHA Surface Miner Competency Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of MSHA regulations for surface mining?
• Increase mine productivity
• Reduce paperwork
• Protect the health and safety of miners
• Provide training for mine operators

Rationale: MSHA’s core mission is to prevent mining injuries, illnesses, and

fatalities.

• Which federal law gives MSHA authority over mining operations? 1 / 4

• Federal Mine Working Act
• Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977
• National Miner Protection Law
• Safety and Health Enforcement Act

Rationale: The Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 established MSHA and

its enforcement authority.

• How often must newly hired miners receive New Miner Training?
• 8 hours
• 16 hours
• 24 hours
• 40 hours

Rationale: Surface miners must receive a minimum of 24 hours of new

miner training.

• Which form is used by MSHA to report accidents?
• Form 5000-4
• Form 300A
• Form 7000-1
• Form 8000-2

Rationale: MSHA Form 7000-1 is the official accident, injury, and illness

reporting form. 2 / 4

• How soon must a fatal accident be reported to MSHA?
• Within 30 minutes
• Within 12 hours
• Immediately, but no later than 15 minutes
• Within the shift

Rationale: Fatal accidents must be reported within 15 minutes as required

by law.

• What is the minimum safe distance when working near high-voltage

powerlines in surface mining?

• 5 feet
• 8 feet
• 10 feet
• 15 feet

Rationale: OSHA/MSHA guidelines require at least 10 feet from high-

voltage lines.

• Which document must miners have access to regarding hazardous

chemicals?

• Permit-to-Work File
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) 3 / 4

• Chemical Registry List
• Hazard Control Log

Rationale: SDS sheets provide required hazard and handling information.

8. The purpose of lockout/tagout procedures is to:

• Allow equipment testing
• Ensure machinery is de-energized before maintenance
• Remove faulty wiring
• Protect electrical contractors only

Rationale: LO/TO eliminates accidental startup during service.

• What is the greatest hazard when entering a confined space at a mine

site?

• Noise
• Poor lighting
• Oxygen deficiency
• Cold temperatures

Rationale: Oxygen deficiency is the most immediate and life-threatening

confined space hazard.

• Which piece of equipment requires a pre-operation inspection?
• / 4