The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has received a petition from Rockwell Mining, LLC, requesting a change to existing safety standards for specific equipment used in mines. The petition seeks approval for the use of unapproved Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) in the Flying Eagle Mine in West Virginia. Rockwell Mining argues that the PAPRs, which are not currently MSHA-approved, offer equivalent or better protection for miners compared to the existing standards. As part of the petition, Rockwell proposes safety procedures, regular equipment checks, and training for miners to ensure the PAPRs can be safely used in mine conditions. Comments on this petition are due by January 13, 2025.
Simple Explanation
Rockwell Mining wants to use a special mask to help miners breathe safely, but these masks don't have the usual safety approval. They promise to keep checking the masks and train everyone to use them safely.