Mining Firm Files Standard Safety Mod Petition
Published Date: 3/20/2025
Notice
Summary
ICG Beckley, LLC asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different way that keeps miners just as safe. This could affect how safety is managed at their mines, and everyone can share their thoughts by April 21, 2025. The change aims to keep miners safe without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Request to Use Unapproved PAPRs Underground
ICG Beckley, LLC asked MSHA to allow the use of two unapproved powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) — the 3M Versaflo TR-800 and the CleanSpace EX — in return air outby the last open crosscut at the Beckley Pocahontas Mine. The petition seeks a modification of 30 CFR 75.507-1(a) so these specific PAPRs can be used under the proposed conditions at that mine (Docket No. M-2025-020-C).
Methane Monitoring and Shutoff Rule
If the alternative PAPRs are allowed, they must be de-energized when methane is detected at concentrations of 1.0 percent or more. The petition requires continuous monitoring by a qualified person immediately before and during PAPR use, methane testing in accordance with 30 CFR 75.323(a) prior to energizing, and that MSHA-approved hand-held methane detectors provide visual and audible warnings at or above 1.0 percent methane.
Training, Inspections, and Recordkeeping Requirements
The petition requires that affected employees be trained on proper use and maintenance of the Versaflo TR-800 and CleanSpace EX per manufacturer guidance, that units be inspected before use, and that a dedicated logbook be kept with weekly examinations by a qualified person recorded. It also requires initial training before any use, submission of proposed training plan revisions within 60 days after a Proposed Decision and Order (PDO) becomes final, and annual retraining under 30 CFR part 48.
Battery and Charging Safety Conditions
The petitioned alternative limits which batteries and charging methods may be used: only 3M TR-830 battery packs or the CleanSpace EX Power Unit that meet UL 1642 or IEC 62133 are allowed; batteries must be charged on the surface in areas free of combustible material using specified chargers; batteries must not be wet or used outside manufacturer temperature limits; battery changeout must occur in intake air outby the last open crosscut, and batteries must be charged sufficiently before each shift.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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ACI Tygart Valley, a mining company, asked to change some safety rules to use a different method that keeps miners just as safe. This petition could affect coal miners and aims to keep safety strong while possibly making operations smoother. Everyone has until April 21, 2025, to share their thoughts, and no extra costs are expected from this change.
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