Overview
Title
Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Diesel-Powered Equipment in Underground Coal Mines
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government wants to make sure diesel machines in underground coal mines are safe, so they are asking people to share their thoughts on keeping these machines as safe as possible for the workers. They're looking for ideas until January 9, 2025, on how to make sure that all safety precautions are in place to avoid accidents and keep miners healthy.
Summary AI
The Department of Labor is seeking public comments on a proposed information collection regarding the safety and maintenance of diesel-powered equipment in underground coal mines. This request, submitted under the Paperwork Reduction Act, aims to ensure necessary safety measures are in place, such as maintenance records and exhaust emission tests, to protect miners from fire and health hazards associated with diesel equipment. The public can comment on the proposal until January 9, 2025, focusing on the necessity and implications of the data collection. The information collection's purpose is to enhance safety standards and reduce the risk associated with diesel machinery.
Abstract
The Department of Labor (DOL) is submitting this Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)-sponsored information collection request (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA). Public comments on the ICR are invited.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register announces a request for public comments regarding the safety and maintenance requirements for diesel-powered equipment in underground coal mines. Submitted by the Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), this information collection request (ICR) is under review in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Public comments on this matter are encouraged until January 9, 2025.
General Summary
The Department of Labor seeks to gather public input about the ongoing collection of data related to diesel-powered equipment in underground coal mines. This request emphasizes the importance of maintaining safety standards by keeping meticulous records of equipment maintenance and conducting regular exhaust emission tests. These measures are crucial to prevent fire hazards and safeguard miners' health against the harmful effects of diesel emissions, which include exposure to harmful gases and particulates.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One major concern is the level of detail provided about the costs associated with these regulations. The text mentions an annual cost burden of $398,170, yet it does not specify what constitutes this expense. Greater transparency in these calculations could alleviate concerns about potential wasteful spending.
Furthermore, technical jargon and complex references to regulatory codes might present accessibility challenges to the general public. Simplifying the language and providing context for these references could enhance understanding and engagement. Additionally, the document does not outline mechanisms for public participation beyond written comments, missing an opportunity to involve stakeholders through potentially more engaging methods such as public hearings or workshops.
Broader Public Impact
For the general public, this document might represent an assurance that the government is actively working to enhance the safety of miners, a sector historically prone to dangerous working conditions. Gathering input from the public can also empower individuals and organizations to contribute to shaping these safety standards.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Positive Impacts: - Mine Workers: Improved health and safety standards potentially resulting from this information collection could lead to safer working environments, reducing risks of injury, illness, or death. - Mine Operators: Clear guidelines and requirements can facilitate the adoption of best practices, possibly leading to more efficient and safer operations.
Negative Impacts: - Businesses: The expected financial costs associated with complying with these regulations may be viewed as burdensome, especially if they perceive the requirements as excessive or misaligned with practical realities.
In conclusion, the document highlights a critical aspect of mine safety administration that aims to protect worker safety while seeking to balance stakeholder interests through public feedback. However, increasing the transparency of costs involved and expanding public engagement options might strengthen the community's trust and involvement in this regulatory process.
Financial Assessment
The document outlines the submission of an information collection request under the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), focusing on the use of diesel-powered equipment in underground coal mines. A significant point of interest in this document is the Total Estimated Annual Other Costs Burden, which is noted as $398,170. This figure represents the anticipated additional financial obligations, apart from the administrative burden hours, that businesses or other organizations affected by these regulations will incur annually.
One of the key issues revolves around the lack of transparency regarding how this annual cost burden is calculated. For a clearer understanding, the document could include a detailed breakdown or methodology of this calculation. Such transparency would help alleviate concerns about potential financial mismanagement or wasteful spending. It would also allow businesses and stakeholders to prepare better for these expenses and understand the justification behind the financial figures.
Another important point of connection between the financial references and identified issues is the complexity of the language concerning the OMB review process. The document could improve clarity by simplifying the explanation of costs and their implications for businesses. This would ensure that the intended audience, particularly those without a technical background, can easily comprehend the financial obligations associated with compliance.
In addition, while the document invites public comments, it does not offer detailed avenues for broader public engagement, which could address the issue of unclear public participation. This could include discussions on the financial implications of these regulatory actions, providing stakeholders with a platform to voice cost-related concerns or suggestions.
Overall, the financial reference of $398,170 is a crucial element in understanding the economic impact of the proposed regulations. Enhancing the clarity and transparency of this financial data could significantly improve stakeholder engagement and confidence in the regulatory process.
Issues
• The document could include more specific information on how the annual cost burden of $398,170 is calculated to ensure transparency and avoid perceptions of potential wasteful spending.
• The language discussing the OMB review process could be simplified to enhance clarity for non-expert readers.
• There is no clear explanation of the avenues for public engagement beyond submitting comments. Including details on public hearings or workshops could enhance public participation.
• The document uses technical jargon related to regulatory codes (e.g., 'section 75.1901(a)' and '75.1911(j)') without providing a layman's explanation or context, which could make it difficult for the general public to understand.
• The document could benefit from a brief summary of the benefits and expected outcomes of the information collection to justify its practical utility.
• The reference to the previous Federal Register notice on August 26, 2024, lacks a concise summary, requiring readers to locate another document for comprehensive understanding.