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This Information Circular presents a self-escape competency framework for rank-and-file miners. This includes nine core competency areas and related training topics. Also, for use by trainers, individual competency assessment checklists for each of the competency areas are provided. This publication is based on the results of a four-year research project carried out by NIOSH in response to recommendations made by the National Academy of Sciences to advance self-escape training.
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Suggested Citation
NIOSH [2023]. Self-escape core competency profile: guidance for improving underground coal miners’ self-escape competency. By Ryan ME, Brnich MJ, Hoebbel CL. Pittsburgh PA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2023-133 (revised 10/2026), IC 9534.
Revisions
| Revision Date | Revisions | Citation of Revision |
| May, 2023 (Original) | NIOSH [2023]. Self-escape core competency profile: guidance for improving underground coal miners’ self-escape competency. By Ryan ME, Hoebbel CL, Brnich MJ. Pittsburgh PA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2023-133, IC 9534. https://doi.org/10.26616/NIOSHPUB2023133 | |
| June, 2023 | The publication month was changed from May 2023 to June 2023. The author order was corrected in the suggested citation. A 2003 MSHA report was added to the reference list. Minor errors in grammar and layout were corrected for clarity. | NIOSH [2023]. Self-escape core competency profile: guidance for improving underground coal miners’ self-escape competency. By Ryan ME, Brnich MJ, Hoebbel CL. Pittsburgh PA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2023-133 (revised 06/2023), IC 9534, https://doi.org/10.26616/NIOSHPUB2023133revised062023 |
| October, 2026 | Added a blank map and made minor text edits to Appendix C, spelled out “gOE” in references to “The Group for Organizational Effectiveness,” updated branding, and fixed broken links. | NIOSH [2023]. Self-escape core competency profile: guidance for improving underground coal miners’ self-escape competency. By Ryan ME, Brnich MJ, Hoebbel CL. Pittsburgh PA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2023-133 (revised 10/2026), IC 9534. |
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