MSHA answers FAQs on coal dust rule

Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration has released a document with answers to frequently asked questions about the agency’s recent final rule on coal dust.

In the document, MSHA addresses dozens of questions about the rule, which aims to lower miners’ exposure to coal mine dust and end the prevalence of deadly diseases collectively known as “black lung.” The rule, which was published April 23, is scheduled to go into effect in stages, beginning Aug. 1.

Many questions in the Q&A document pertain to sampling procedures and ventilation plans. The questions will be updated on an ongoing basis, MSHA said.