Silica and Safety Solutions
About John
Hi. I'm John Kalnins.
Born and raised in New York, I traded the bustling city life for the wide-open spaces of the West 25 years ago, settling in Denver.
In 2021, my family and I embraced a quieter lifestyle and moved to South Dakota. Now, I live just south of Rapid City on a 6-acre homestead with my wife, Robyn, our two mastiffs, Lulu and Boris, and 25 free-range chickens. I’m still lobbying for goats, but Robyn says no—for now.
My Career: From Mine Inspector To Safety Consultant
I’m a retired MSHA inspector with over 15 years of experience inspecting mines across Montana, Kansas, and everywhere in between. During my career, I’ve logged more than 2,000 hours of MSHA training and recently added the title of Authorized OSHA Trainer to my credentials.
Before becoming an inspector, I spent two decades working on large-scale construction and development projects. From underground mines to sprawling housing developments, I’ve been in the trenches—literally. This hands-on experience gives me a unique understanding of job sites, worker behaviors, safety risks, and the equipment used daily.
Experience Brings Training To Life
Being "trained" is one thing. Living the work? That’s another. My first-hand experience allows me to deliver training that’s practical, relatable, and memorable. I don’t just teach regulations; I make them relevant, showing how they benefit workers and keep them safe.
When I conduct site audits, my deep knowledge of inspection protocols ensures I know exactly what inspectors look for—and when they’ll look for it. I guide companies to find the balance between compliance and practicality, offering cost-effective solutions to citations and non-compliance issues.
Why I Do What I Do
An accident on a job site can cost a company millions of dollars—or, worse, cost a worker their life. Having seen the devastating impact of workplace accidents firsthand, including the loss of colleagues I once knew, I approach my work with a deep sense of responsibility.
My mission is simple: to save lives and safeguard livelihoods. Through my training sessions, site inspections, and consulting, I help companies create safer environments for their teams while ensuring compliance in a cost-effective way. It’s a win-win—for the employees on the ground and the organizations they work for.At the end of the day, knowing that my work keeps people safe and businesses running smoothly is the most rewarding part of what I do.
MY EDUCATION AND TRAINING:
MY EXPERIENCE:
15 years experience as a federal mine inspector.
25 years of experience in demolition, excavation, asphalt, concrete construction.
3 years self-employed as a health and safety consultant.