Overview

The 3,000 non-metal mining companies in the US develop mine sites, extract non-metallic minerals from mines, and process the minerals mechanically through beneficiation (crushing, grinding, washing, separating, and concentrating) or by using chemical or electrochemical techniques. Products include dimensional stone blocks or slabs, crushed or broken stone, sand and gravel, clay, and minerals such as potash, soda, borate, sodium, potassium, and phosphate.

Injuries and Fatalities

The mining industry has a notoriously high injury and fatality rate.

Environmental Impacts

During operation, mining companies must control soil erosion and prevent runoff that could contaminate nearby bodies of water.