West Virginia Coal Operation Requests Safety Rule Adjustment
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Notice
Summary
Greenbrier Smokeless Coal Mining wants to change some safety rules at their mine to use a different method that keeps workers just as safe. This petition affects miners at their West Virginia site and could save the company time or money while still protecting everyone. Comments on this request must be sent by February 11, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Monthly Fan Test Method Change
Greenbrier Smokeless Coal Mining asked MSHA to allow a simulated signal test every 31 days instead of stopping the main mine fan at Mountaineer Pocahontas No. 1 Mine (MSHA ID 46-09172) in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The petition also proposes full shutdown (stop-the-fan) tests only every 6 or every 5–7 months, training for personnel, and keeping test and training records; the company says the alternative will guarantee no less protection for miners.
Potential Company Time and Cost Savings
The petitioner says stopping and restarting the main fan causes operational delays, hazards, and equipment damage; by using simulated signal tests every 31 days and fewer full shutdowns, the company could reduce those disruptions and associated time or costs at the Mountaineer Pocahontas No. 1 Mine. The petition includes alarms, training, and recordkeeping as part of the proposed alternative.
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