Rockwell Mining, LLC has submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requesting a change to existing safety rules at its Coal Branch No. 1 Mine in West Virginia. The company wants permission to use certain powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs), which are not MSHA-approved, in various parts of the mine. They argue that these devices provide a safe and comfortable alternative for respiratory protection, especially for miners who struggle with existing equipment due to facial hair or inability to fit-test. The petition outlines training and inspection protocols to ensure safety and seeks to expand respirator options for miners under new regulations concerning silica exposure.
Simple Explanation
Rockwell Mining wants to use special masks that help workers breathe better in their coal mine, but these masks aren't officially approved yet. They believe these masks will help people who have trouble using the regular ones.