Coal Company Seeks Tweak to Mine Safety Rules for Efficiency
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Notice
Summary
Consol Pennsylvania Coal Company asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different method that keeps miners just as safe. This change could affect how safety standards apply at their mines, and everyone has until February 11, 2026, to share their thoughts. The goal? Keep miners safe while possibly making safety checks easier or more efficient, without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Request to Use Non‑Permissible Test Gear
Consol Pennsylvania Coal Company asked MSHA to allow battery-powered, non‑permissible testing and diagnostic equipment to be used in return air outby the last open crosscut at the Harvey Mine (MSHA ID 36-10045) under a petition to modify 30 CFR 75.507-1(a). The petition specifically lists vibration analyzers (Emerson AMS 2140; Bentley Nevada vb7; Bentley Nevada Scout 100 EX; Bentley Nevada Commtest Scout 140, VBX and Scout Unit) and also seeks permission for laptops, oscilloscopes, cable fault detectors, infrared and point temperature probes, ultrasonic devices, electronic component testers, and electronic tachometers.
Safety Conditions: Methane Monitoring and Exams
If the modification is granted, the petition requires that non‑permissible electronic testing equipment be examined by a qualified person before use and that those exam results be recorded in the weekly examination book. It also requires continuous methane monitoring immediately before and during use and says equipment must not be used when methane is at or above 1%; if 1% or more methane is detected while equipment is in use it must be de‑energized and withdrawn.
Training and Notice Requirements
The petitioner must post the petition on mine bulletin boards and other conspicuous places at all mines to which it applies for at least 60 consecutive days and make a copy available to miners' representatives. The petitioner also must include the listed terms and conditions in initial and annual Part 48 refresher training so miners know the stipulations.
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