MSHA Extends Public Comment Window on Proposed Updates to Federal Standards

MSHA Extends Public Comment Window on Proposed Updates to Federal Standards

The changes would increase protection of miners from exposure to silica dust.

  • By Robert Yaniz Jr.
  • Aug 11, 2023

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) just released an important update regarding proposed amendments to federal standards designed to keep the nation’s miners safer.

In a release dated August 10, the DOL announced that the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has extended the period during which members of the public can comment on the proposed changes. Following demand from the mining community, MSHA has added an additional 15 days to the deadline, which was initially set for August 28.

“Several interested parties requested that the Department of Labor provide additional time to prepare and submit comments,” MSHA Assistant Secretary Chris Williamson said in a statement. “Upon careful consideration, we have decided to extend the comment period for 15 days and to promptly provide notice of the extension to the mining community.”

Published on July 13, the proposed change to the Federal Register would require mine operators to maintain miners’ Permissible Exposure Limit to respirable crystalline silica—also known as “silica dust”—in line with that of workers in other industries. If the proposed rule goes through, it would require operators to take immediate action to meet compliance standards. The rule also involves the addition of exposure sampling and no-cost medical surveillance.

Members of the public can submit comments to MSHA online at the federal rulemaking portal by September 11.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • 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

  • 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

  • Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

    Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. Read More

Featured

Most   Popular