In a petition submitted to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Blue Diamond Coal Co. seeks to modify safety standards to allow the use of specific Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) that are not currently MSHA-approved. They argue that these devices, the CleanSpace EX and the 3M Versaflo TR-800, are intrinsically safe and provide continuous airflow for respiratory protection in harsh conditions. The company believes that offering these PAPRs will give miners additional options for respiratory protection and comfort, especially for those who have difficulty with fit requirements. The petition outlines detailed procedures and safety checks to ensure the PAPRs' safe use, ensuring they provide no less protection than existing standards.
Simple Explanation
Blue Diamond Coal Co. asked for permission to use new breathing masks for miners that aren't officially approved yet because they think these masks work well and keep miners safe. They believe that using these masks might make it easier and more comfortable for miners to breathe while they work, even though some people might worry about trying something not yet fully approved.