Peabody Twentymile Mining, LLC has submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to modify an existing safety standard, allowing the use of a new kind of respirator called the Drager X-plore 8700 at its Foidel Creek Mine in Colorado. The company wants to use these new respirators because the previously used ones, made by 3M, have been discontinued. While not currently approved by MSHA, Peabody believes the Drager X-plore 8700 offers the same level of safety as the old models. The petition sets out safety measures and training plans to ensure miner safety when using these new devices. The deadline for public comments on this proposal is April 2, 2025.
Simple Explanation
Peabody Mining wants permission to use a new type of mask at their mine because the old ones are no longer made. They believe the new masks work just as well, and they want to make sure everyone stays safe.