New Mine Rescue Team Rule Published, Effective Nov. 14

  • Sep 16, 2008

MSHA yesterday published a final rule requiring more oxygen and more gas monitores to be carried by mine rescue teams, and a second rule affecting fire extinguishers used in underground coal mines. The rescue teams rule is intended to improve the effectiveness and response speed of mine rescue teams during emergencies.

"Mine rescue team members often put themselves in danger to save miners injured or trapped underground as the result of an explosion, fire, roof fall, or water inundation. It is critical that they be provided with the most up-to-date protective equipment so they can safely and effectively carry out their mission," said Richard Stickler, acting chief of MSHA. "In an emergency, a properly equipped mine rescue team could mean the difference between life and death." The rule takes effect Nov. 14.

Requirements of the final rule include four-hour (rather than two-hour) SCBAs; two (rather than one) extra oxygen bottles for every six SCBAs; eight hours (rather than six hours) of liquid air, liquid oxygen, pressurized oxygen, or oxygen-generating chemicals and carbon dioxide-absorbent chemicals to maintain SCBAs for a longer period of time; and four (rather than two) gas detectors appropriate for each gas that may be encountered.

The rule updates MSHA's existing equipment standards for teams serving underground metal and nonmetal mines (part 49, subpart A, Sec. 49.6) and underground coal mines (part 49, subpart B, Sec. 49.16).

Product Showcase

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • SECUPRO MARTEGO

    FOR HIGHEST DEMANDS. A cutting tool in which function and design go hand in hand. Meet the SECUPRO MARTEGO, our prize-winning squeeze-grip safety knife with fully automatic retractable blade for safety. • Ergonomically friendly trigger mechanism to engage the blade • Durable body made of aluminum • Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks • 9 mm Cutting depth • Easy, tool free blade change Dimensions: L 6.10" L x 0.71" W x 1.91" H Weight: 3.70 oz Cutting Depth: 9 mm Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence

Webinars