MSHA requests input on coal mine rescue training guides

Arlington, VA — The Mine Safety and Health Administration is seeking public comment on existing coal mine rescue training guides IG7 and IG7A, the agency announced Dec. 21.

After reviewing the guidance as required by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response (MINER) Act of 2006, MSHA concluded that the documents are “sufficient in providing team members with the necessary knowledge and skills to respond effectively in the event of an emergency,” the agency states on its website.

MSHA revised the guidelines in December 2013. Under Title 30 CFR Part 49.50, mine rescue teams must meet these initial criteria:

• Be available at all times when miners are underground, staying within one-hour ground travel time from the mine rescue station to the mine.
• Consist of five members and one alternate, except when alternative compliance is permitted.
• Have experience working in underground coal mines.
• Inspect, test and maintain appropriate rescue equipment upon receipt.
• Maintain physical fitness.
• Complete initial training.

Comments are due by Feb. 22, and must include “Instruction Guides IG7 and IG7A” in the subject line. Stakeholders can comment by:

• Emailing [email protected].
• Sending mail to MSHA, Office of Standards, Regulations and Variances, 201 12th St. S., Suite 4E401, Arlington, VA 22202-5452; or hand-delivering it to this address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Monday through Friday – except on federal holidays.
• Faxing (202) 693-9441.