FR 2024-30941

The document from the Federal Register, titled "Proposed Extension of Information Collection; Ground Control for Surface Coal Mines and Surface Work Areas of Underground Coal Mines," is a call for public comments by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), part of the Department of Labor. This request aims to gather feedback on an information collection initiative focused on ensuring the safety of highwalls, pits, and spoil banks in surface coal mines and surface work areas of underground coal mines.

General Summary

The main purpose of this document is to ensure that mine operators maintain safe conditions in and around mines to protect workers and visitors. It mandates that operators develop and submit detailed ground control plans that align with safe engineering practices. The document is part of a broader effort to minimize the paperwork burden and enhance the clarity of information collected as per the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the intent of the document is clear, there are several issues that might arise.

• Lack of Detailed Guidance: The document does not provide explicit instructions on how ground control plans should be developed. This omission may lead to varied interpretations by operators, potentially resulting in inconsistencies in safety standards.

• Estimation Transparency: It further lacks clarity on how the MSHA arrived at its estimations of time (2,398 hours) and costs ($663) associated with the data collection. Without transparent methods, stakeholders might question the accuracy of these figures.

• Ambiguity in Terminology: Terms like "prudent engineering design" and "ground control plans" are not well-defined within the document. This may cause operators to interpret these crucial terms differently, potentially impacting the efficacy of the safety initiatives.

• Unclear Technological Recommendations: There is a notable absence of specifics on what technologies or methodologies could be employed to reduce the burden of this reporting requirement, potentially leaving room for subjective interpretation.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broad Public Impact

The general public, especially those residing in communities near mining operations, might see improved safety conditions as a result of these measures. Enhanced safety standards could minimize the risk of accidents that might affect nearby areas, ensuring better protection for all parties.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Mine Operators: This document poses potential challenges for mine operators who must comply with these safety plans. Without clear and practical guidance, operators could face difficulties interpreting and implementing these requirements effectively. However, these regulations aim to elevate safety standards and operational efficiency, contributing to a safer working environment.

• Mine Workers: For the workforce, this initiative carries the promise of enhanced safety through improved regulation of mine environments. This could result in fewer accidents and a more secure working atmosphere, benefiting individual workers and the broader industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the document seeks to advance mine safety, issues such as unclear guidance and ambiguous terminology need addressing to prevent potential misunderstandings and inconsistencies in compliance. These refinements could help mitigate burdens on mine operators while ensuring the primary goal of enhanced miner safety is achieved effectively. Public comments, especially from stakeholders affected by these regulations, will be crucial in refining and clarifying the proposed measures.

In the document regarding the proposed extension of information collection for ground control in coal mines, one financial aspect is highlighted related to the Annual Other Burden Costs, which amount to $663. This figure represents additional costs associated with the administrative requirements and compliance activities necessitated by the collection of information for ground control standards in surface coal mines and surface work areas of underground coal mines.

Financial Allocation Summary

The $663 in annual other burden costs specifically pertains to the expenditures that respondents, such as mining companies, might incur from complying with the information collection requirements outlined by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). These costs could include various expenses such as administrative work, documentation, and submission of ground control plans as required by the MSHA.

Relation to Identified Issues

One notable issue within the document is the lack of specificity about how MSHA estimates the time burden of 2,398 hours and the associated costs of $663. This absence of detailed methodology or breakdown impairs transparency and may lead to skepticism or concerns among stakeholders about the accuracy and completeness of these estimates. Respondents may question whether the calculated financial burden reflects realistic costs or potentially overlooks some substantial expenses they might have to bear.

Additionally, the document does not clarify the technological tools or methodologies suggested for minimizing the information collection burden. This might suggest that the $663 estimate does not fully account for potential cost-saving measures that could be employed, leading to an underestimation of the financial burden if operators have dissimilar technological capabilities or needs.

Overall, the financial reference in the document underscores a potential gap in clear communications regarding cost estimations and could play a critical role in how the proposal impacts respondents. It is essential for the MSHA to provide clarity and justification for such financial figures to aid understanding and compliance among mine operators.