Rockwell Mining, LLC has requested a modification to allow the use of certain Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) within 150 feet of pillar workings or longwall faces at their Gateway Eagle Mine in West Virginia. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is considering this petition, which suggests using two specific models of PAPRs—CleanSpace EX and 3M Versaflo TR-800—that are not currently MSHA-approved but deemed intrinsically safe by the manufacturer. Rockwell argues that these devices provide high levels of respiratory protection and comfort, especially for miners with facial hair who struggle with traditional respirators. They propose comprehensive training and maintenance protocols to ensure miner safety.
Simple Explanation
Rockwell Mining wants to use special air masks in a mine to help workers breathe better, especially if they have beards, but these masks haven't been officially approved yet. They promise to teach people how to use them safely and make sure everything is checked and working well.