Search Results for agency_names:"Mine Safety and Health Administration"

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) received a petition from Rockwell Mining, LLC, to allow the use of certain powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) in specific areas of a mine, such as near pillar workings or longwall faces. These PAPRs, which include the CleanSpace EX and the 3M Versaflo TR-800s, are not MSHA-approved, but the petitioner claims they are intrinsically safe and offer better protection and comfort in hot conditions. The company proposes a detailed alternative method for ensuring safety, including training, inspections, and compliance with specific maintenance requirements. The notice invites public comments on the petition until January 15, 2025.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) received a petition from Kanawha Eagle Mining, LLC to allow the use of specific Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) near certain mining areas at the North Eagle Mine in West Virginia. These respirators, which are not currently approved by MSHA, are claimed to provide safety and comfort for miners, especially those with facial hair or who cannot use tight-fitting masks. The proposal outlines an alternative method to ensure safety while using these PAPRs, including regular inspections, training, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. The petition argues that this method will maintain or exceed the current safety standards for miners.

The Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is seeking public comments on its information collection efforts regarding the use of explosive materials and blasting units in specific mines. The focus is on Category III metal and nonmetal mines, which are considered potentially gassy and require safe blasting practices. MSHA wants feedback on the necessity of the information collected, its burden on respondents, and methods to improve data quality and submission efficiency. Public comments will help MSHA reassess and potentially extend the current data collection practices.

Rockwell Mining, LLC has submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) seeking a change in the application of existing safety standards at their Eagle #3 Mine in West Virginia. They request the use of two specific respirators, the CleanSpace EX and 3M Versaflo TR-800, which are not MSHA-approved, arguing these provide necessary protection and comfort for miners in hot conditions. The company proposes an alternative method, including specific training, inspection, and maintenance protocols, to ensure safety levels equivalent to existing standards. The petition indicates that these measures will expand respirator options and maintain miner safety without reducing current safety standards.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has received a petition from Rockwell Mining, LLC, requesting to modify the safety standard regarding the use of certain unapproved air purifying respirators in their Coal Branch No. 2 Mine. This modification seeks to incorporate alternatives to the currently available NIOSH-approved respirators, specifically the CleanSpace EX and 3M Versaflo TR-800 units, which provide continuous filtered air and suit miners with facial hair who cannot use traditional respirators. The petition argues that this alternative method offers protection equal to the existing standards, and the equipment will be maintained and operated under strict conditions to ensure safety. Public comments on this request are open until January 15, 2025.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reviewing a request from ICG Beckley, LLC to change a safety regulation. Specifically, they want to use newer, unapproved air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) in certain mining areas where older versions were used but have been discontinued. The petition explains why these new devices are safe and why sticking to the old rule could make things less safe for miners. Comments on this request must be sent to MSHA by April 21, 2025.

The Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) invites the public to comment on an information collection request regarding ground control in coal mines and surface work areas of underground coal mines. This effort aims to ensure mine operators maintain safe conditions in highwalls, pits, and spoil banks. The goal is to minimize reporting burdens and enhance the clarity and utility of the information collected. Comments must be submitted by February 25, 2025, through the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal or by mail.

Signal Peak Energy, LLC has submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requesting a change to existing safety standards at Bull Mountains Mine No. 1 in Montana. They want to use Dräger X-plore 8700 Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) instead of the current equipment, claiming this new model offers better performance and safety. Although these devices are not directly approved by MSHA, they are certified as safe for use in facilities with explosive gases and dust. Signal Peak Energy has detailed safety measures and training requirements to ensure the equipment keeps miners protected.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) received a petition from Rockwell Mining, LLC to modify safety regulations regarding equipment used at their Coal Branch No. 2 Mine in West Virginia. The company seeks permission to use two types of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs), which are not MSHA-approved, because they believe these PAPRs offer better respiratory protection and comfort for miners, especially those with facial hair or who cannot wear tight-fitting respirators. The proposal outlines detailed training, inspection, and maintenance guidelines to ensure safety and compliance. Public comments on the petition are to be submitted by January 15, 2025.

ICG Beckley, LLC has asked the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to allow the use of certain air purifying respirators to protect miners at its Beckley Pocahontas Mine in West Virginia. These respirators, specifically the CleanSpace EX and 3M Versaflo TR-800, are not currently approved under MSHA standards, but the company argues they offer comparable protection and comfort, especially in hot working conditions. The petition highlights issues with the supply and discontinuation of previously used equipment and outlines rigorous inspection and training procedures to ensure safety. MSHA is accepting public comments on the petition until April 21, 2025.