Mining health and safety conference takes place later this month in Sudbury
A vital event for Canada’s mining industry returns to Northern Ontario later this month as Workplace Safety North (WSN) unveils details for the 27th annual Mining Health and Safety Conference, taking place April 30 to May 1 at Science North in Sudbury. This year’s theme, “The Foundation of Mining Safety,” highlights the importance of legal compliance, effective risk management, and the role of workplace culture in ensuring safe, healthy mining environments.
With more than 250 industry professionals expected to attend, the conference offers a comprehensive platform for learning, networking, and exploring best practices in occupational health and safety. The event features a robust agenda of keynote presentations, technical sessions, and a mining-focused trade show.
Keynote speaker brings high-impact message
Opening remarks on April 30 will come from WSN president and CEO Mike Parent, along with Steve Wrixon, vice president of health, safety and environment at Cementation.
They will be followed by a keynote address from Derek Daly, a former professional race car driver who survived one of the most catastrophic crash impacts in motorsport history. Daly’s story underscores how a near-death experience can catalyze industry-wide safety improvements, with his insights drawing parallels between high-risk environments in racing and mining.
Mock trial highlights legal realities of safety failures
A highlight of the first day will be a three-part mining mock trial, providing an interactive and educational look into the legal consequences of safety lapses. The trial will be conducted by Mathews, Dinsdale & Clark, a Toronto-based global HR law firm, and will feature senior partner Jeremy Warning and partner John Illingworth.
Innovation, research, and real-world applications
The conference continues into May 1 with a series of technical sessions in the Vale Cavern at Science North. These presentations will explore cutting-edge topics including:
- The new Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) silica standard
- Enhancing safety culture and leadership
- Psychological health and safety in mining
- Emerging collision avoidance technologies for underground operations
- Occupational hand-transmitted vibration exposure
- Fatigue risk management strategies
- Emergency response tactics for battery fires
Trade show and industry recognition
Running alongside the conference is the Information Exchange Trade Show, which will feature more than 30 vendors across several Science North venues, including the CTV Atrium, Sun Walk, and SN Lobby. Exhibitors will showcase the latest safety products, services, and technologies aimed at improving health and safety performance across the mining sector.
The conference concludes with an awards presentation hosted by WSN Health and Safety Specialist Sam Barbuto, recognizing outstanding contributions to health and safety in mining.
Collaboration for a safer mining sector
“This conference serves as a vital platform for industry professionals to connect, exchange insights, and reinforce the core principles of mining safety,” said Parent. “By prioritizing compliance, risk management, and a culture of safety, we are strengthening Ontario’s mining sector, ensuring it is recognized globally as the safest in the world.”
With a focus on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuous improvement, the 2025 Mining Health and Safety Conference aims to not only spotlight challenges but also drive forward solutions that benefit workers and organizations alike.
