Ontario Mine Rescue (OMR) announced that in 2029, in honour of its 100th anniversary, it will be hosting the International Mine Rescue Body (IMRB) Conference in Ontario, Canada.

OMR’s CEO Mike Parent and Chief Mine Rescue Officer Shawn Rideout made the announcement September 23 during Austria’s IMRB Conference, a keystone event for the global mine rescue community, as it facilitates networking and knowledge exchange between mine rescue organizations on an international level.

Rideout was also elected to the IMRB Board of Directors, securing one of only two available positions. This election highlights the international recognition of OMR’s expertise and leadership in mine rescue and safety, it said. 

“Mine safety and emergency preparedness has always been our top priority,”  Parent said in a statement. “Not only will hosting the IMRB Conference in 2029 welcome our international colleagues to share knowledge, innovation, and best practices, but also invites them to celebrate a dedicated century of protecting miners’ lives with us.”

Ontario Mine Rescue has been at the forefront of mine safety in Canada for 100 years, and the upcoming conference will highlight ongoing advancements in training, equipment, and emergency response, while fostering collaboration with mine rescue organizations worldwide.

For a glimpse of what to expect for OMR’s centennial celebrations and the 2029 conference. Watch this video.