MSHA proposes delay of rule on metal, non-metal mine examinations; seeks comment

Arlington, VA – The Mine Safety and Health Administration is proposing to delay until July 24 the effective date of a final rule intended to improve pre-shift examinations of metal and non-metal mines.

The rule was scheduled to go into effect on May 23. MSHA is seeking the delay “to assure that mine operators and miners affected by the examinations final rule have the training and compliance assistance they need prior to the rule’s effective date,” according to a notice published in the March 27 Federal Register.

The rule includes the following requirements:

• A competent person must examine the jobsite before miners start work.
• Mine operators must quickly notify miners of conditions that could harm their safety or health.
• A competent person must sign and date the examination record before the end of every shift. The examination record should include a description of the locations examined, conditions found and, if applicable, the corrective actions that were taken.
• Records must be available for inspection by MSHA and miners’ representatives.

Comments on the proposed extension are due April 26.