The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has received a petition from ICG Beckley, LLC for a modification to existing mine safety standards. The company wants to use unapproved Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs), specifically the CleanSpace EX and 3M Versaflo TR-800, in certain mining environments. These devices are suggested as alternatives to the discontinued 3M Airstream helmet, providing respiratory protection from coal mine dust. ICG Beckley argues that their use will maintain or enhance miner safety, even though these devices aren't MSHA approved. They propose extensive training, regular inspections, and strict conditions for using these PAPRs to ensure miner safety.
Simple Explanation
ICG Beckley wants to use special breathing masks in mines to keep workers safe from dust. These masks are not approved by the mine safety group, but the company promises to train workers and check the masks often to make sure they work well.