⛏️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MSHA is proposing to revise 30 CFR part 57 by removing outdated requirements for miners' exposures to diesel particulate matter (DPM) in underground metal and nonmetal mines (MNM).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⚙️Proposed Changes to Electrical Safety Regulations in Coal Mining
MSHA proposes to revise title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations (30 CFR) part 75 by removing requirements for the use of permissible electric face equipment in coal seams above the water table. Removing these provisions would not reduce protections afforded to miners.
Learn More⚒️MSHA Proposes Removal of Outdated Trolley Safety Regulations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 Trolleys are an outdated technology that have been replaced by more efficient belt conveyor haulage systems for transporting mined ore and coal.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.
Learn More⚒️Regulatory Proposal for Conveyor Belt Approval in Underground Mines
MSHA is proposing to revise 30 CFR part 75 by removing outdated requirements for the approval process for conveyor belts used in underground coal mines. These revisions would streamline the current requirements for underground coal operators while maintaining the same level of protections for miners who work with such equipment.
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MSHA is proposing to revise 30 CFR part 57 to remove outdated requirements regarding blacksmith shops located at surface metal and nonmetal mines.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🛠️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⛏️Pennsylvania Surface Mining Regulatory Amendments and Implications
We, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), are approving an amendment to the Pennsylvania regulatory program under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). The amendment proposes to revise the Pennsylvania program to comply with four required amendments and to correct a provision we previously disapproved. The proposed amendment also includes revisions to Pennsylvania's program, including effluent limitations for bituminous underground coal mines, temporary cessation, the definition of Surface Mining Activities, civil penalties, and administrative requirements, as well as other administrative updates and non-substantive corrections.
Learn More⚖️Proposed Rescission of “Ten-Day Notices” in Surface Mining Regulations
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is proposing to rescind the "Ten-Day Notices and Corrective Action for State Regulatory Program Issues" Rule adopted on April 9, 2024. We are undertaking this change to align the regulations with the single, best meaning of the statutory language in the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). This proposed rule would streamline the process for OSMRE's coordination with State regulatory authorities to minimize duplication of efforts in the administration of SMCRA and appropriately recognize that State regulatory authorities are the primary regulatory authorities of non-Federal, non-Indian lands within their borders. We solicit comment on all aspects of this proposed rule.
Learn More⚖️New Civil Penalty Inflation Adjustments for Surface Mining Operations
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) adjusts for inflation its civil monetary penalties assessed under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) and its implementing regulations. OSMRE takes this regulatory action pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 (2015 Act), which further amended the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (1990 Act), and Office of Management and Budget guidance.
Learn More⛏️Petition for Modification of Mine Safety Standards by MSHA
This notice is a summary of a petition for modification submitted to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) by ICG Beckley, LLC.
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