Coal Firm Petitions for Alternative Mine Safety Method Approval
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 could affect how safety is managed at their mines and might save time or money without risking anyone’s well-being. Everyone has until February 11, 2026, to share their thoughts on this petition.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Request to Use Non‑Permissible Diagnostic Gear
Consol Pennsylvania Coal Company asked MSHA to modify 30 CFR 75.500(d) to allow battery‑powered, non‑permissible testing and diagnostic equipment to be used in or inby the last open crosscut at the Enlow Fork Mine in Washington County, Pennsylvania. The petition specifically lists vibration analyzers (Emerson AMS 2140; Bentley Nevada vb7, Scout 100 EX, Commtest Scout 140/VBX/Scout) and also mentions laptops, oscilloscopes, cable fault detectors, temperature probes, infrared devices, signal analyzers, ultrasonic devices, electronic component testers, and tachometers.
Safety Conditions If Equipment Use Is Approved
The petitioner proposes specific safety controls to be required if non‑permissible equipment is allowed: qualified‑person examinations before use with results recorded in the weekly examination book; continuous qualified methane monitoring immediately before and during use; immediate de‑energizing and withdrawal of equipment if methane is detected at or above 1%; use of MSHA‑approved handheld methane detectors maintained per 30 CFR 75.320; suspension of coal production except for troubleshooting while testing; liberal rock dusting of the test area; and inclusion of the petition terms in initial and annual refresher Part 48 training. The petitioner also requires posting the petition at the mines for not less than 60 consecutive days (it was posted October 3, 2025).
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