🚧Proposed Rule on Aerial Tramways
MSHA proposes to revise title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations (30 CFR) part 56 by removing duplicative requirements for aerial tramways. Removing these provisions would not reduce protections afforded to miners because they are unnecessary and duplicative of information elsewhere in 30 CFR part 56.
Learn More⛏️MSHA Proposes Revision of Diesel Particulate Matter Regulations
MSHA is proposing to revise 30 CFR part 57 by removing outdated requirements for miners' exposures to diesel particulate matter (DPM) in underground metal and nonmetal mines (MNM). These revisions would streamline the requirements for DPM for underground MNM mine operators while maintaining the same level of protection for miners.
Learn More🚂Update on the Definition of "Person" in Railroad Regulations
This final rule updates the definition of "person" in FRA's regulations to provide for regulatory consistency. FRA is making these clarifying changes to better align with FRA's safety jurisdiction and to conform definitions in FRA's older regulations with the definition of "person" that FRA has used in its most recent rulemakings. In one section where "person" is defined, FRA is also replacing references to specific penalty amounts with general references to FRA's minimum civil monetary penalty, ordinary maximum civil monetary penalty, and aggravated maximum civil monetary penalty amounts, consistent with FRA's current practice.
Learn More🛠️New Rule Facilitates Non-Permissible PAPR Usage in Mining
MSHA is proposing to allow the use of non-permissible Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) in specified underground areas of mines, if the equipment meets certain technical specifications and is operated under specific conditions. This proposed rule would codify technical specifications and working conditions to allow the use of non-permissible PAPRs in underground gassy mines. This proposed rule would reduce burden because mine operators would no longer need to submit a petition for modification to use non-permissible PAPRs.
Learn More⚒️Proposed Deregulation for Blacksmith Shops in Mining Operations
MSHA is proposing to revise 30 CFR part 57 to remove outdated requirements regarding blacksmith shops located at surface metal and nonmetal mines. Removal of this standard would not result in a reduction of safety protection for miners at surface metal and nonmetal mines.
Learn More⚒️MSHA Proposes Removal of Outdated Trolley Safety Regulations
MSHA is proposing to remove and revise provisions for metal and nonmental (MNM) mines and coal mines regarding the use of trolleys for transportation of mined ore, coal, material, and personnel. Trolleys are an outdated technology that have been replaced by more efficient belt conveyor haulage systems for transporting mined ore and coal. Diesel and battery-operated mobile equipment are now used to transport personnel and equipment. Trolleys are no longer used in MNM or coal mines and there is no anticipated future use of this legacy equipment in MNM and coal mines.
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