Wolf Run Mining, LLC submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requesting a change to the safety standards for their Leer South Mine. They want to use new types of air purifying respirators, the 3M Versaflo TR-800 and CleanSpace EX, instead of the discontinued 3M Airstream. These respirators are not MSHA-approved, but the company believes they provide equal or better protection and are safe to use. The proposal involves specific training, inspection, and maintenance procedures to ensure safety, especially in areas where methane gas might be present.
Simple Explanation
Wolf Run Mining wants to use new breathing masks in their mine because the old ones are not made anymore. They promise these new masks work just as well and keep the miners safe.