Two New MSHA Tools Added to Track Violations

Online improvements will help increase compliance with critical health and safety standards

According to a news release, the U.S. Mine and Safety Health Administration (MSHA) has launched two new tools to assist operators, miners, MSHA and others in tracking violations of standards commonly associated with mining deaths and frequently found by federal mine inspectors in examinations of underground coal mines. These include tools to monitor a mine’s  compliance history, such as determining its eligibility for a pattern of violations or the number of significant and substantial violations issued in a given time period after a corrective action plan is put into place.

One of the enhancements is a tool that identifies the health and safety standards spotlighted in MSHA’s “Rules to Live By” outreach and enforcement program which began in 2010 to prevent some common causes of mining fatalities.

The second tool tracks compliance of nine standards associated with hazardous conditions that pose the greatest risk to underground coal miners. These nine standards cover ventilation, methane, roof control, combustible materials, rock dust, equipment guarding and other safeguards.

"These new web tools will enable mine operators to monitor their own compliance with specific safety and health standards that are commonly linked to mining deaths and frequently cited by MSHA," said Joseph A. Main, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health. "Operators will be able to track their mine's performance and take any corrective action that may be needed to improve compliance."

Product Showcase

  • Make selection & use of SRLs simpler with the new V-SHOCK line

    Make selection & use of SRLs simpler with the new V-SHOCK line

    The new MSA V-SHOCK EDGE Cable SRLs and Web PFLs for Leading Edge use are designed for simplicity and hassle-free safety. V-SHOCK EDGE solutions help make PPE selection on the jobsite quick and easy with color-coded housings, clear icons on labels, and clearance charts in the label pack. 3

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi-gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be 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). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

Featured