Attachment B2 Response to Public Comment

Attachment B2 – Summary and Response to Public Comment

There were two main concerns presented during the public comment period regarding this study. The first was a question about the practical utility of the project. It was explained by the Project Officer that the practical utility of this study has already been demonstrated through the individualized results provided to each mine after participation in this study. Mine management is able to utilize the results presented to understand the current safety culture at the mine and make changes to improve the safety culture. The workforce at each mine can use the information provided to them during results briefings to hold management accountable for making some of the suggested changes. At the culmination of this study a summative document will be produced which will present findings as well as lessons learned and suggestions for improving the safety culture at any underground coal mine. This document will be of practical use for the underground coal mining industry.

The second concern raised during the public comment period was the lack of involvement of labor organizations in the development of survey items and interview questions. The Project Officer explained that this study is utilizing previously existing survey instruments and interview questions which have been proven to be both reliable and valid. Modifying, adding, or deleting questions based merely on the opinion of members of labor organization would jeopardize the reliability and validity of the data collection instruments.