Wolf Run Mining seeks safety rule tweaks for coal operations—comments open
Published Date: 4/18/2025
Notice
Summary
Wolf Run Mining, LLC asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different way that keeps miners just as safe. This affects coal mines and aims to keep safety strong without extra costs or delays. Everyone has until May 19, 2025, to share their thoughts on this change.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Request to Use Two Non‑MSHA PAPRs
Wolf Run Mining asks MSHA to allow the 3M Versaflo TR-800 and the CleanSpace EX powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) as an alternative to 30 CFR 75.1002(a) (permissible electric equipment) at the Leer South Mine (MSHA ID 46-04168). The petitioner asserts these PAPRs are intrinsically safe, provide equivalent protection to the discontinued 3M Airstream helmet, and requests MSHA grant a modification so these units can be used.
Methane Limits and Use Zones for PAPRs
The petitioner proposes that neither the 3M Versaflo TR-800 nor the CleanSpace EX be used if methane is detected at or above 1.0 percent; units must be deenergized immediately at 1.0 percent or higher and withdrawn outby the last open crosscut. The proposal also limits use within 150 feet of pillar workings or longwall faces until MSHA inspects units and includes continuous methane monitoring by a qualified person and MSHA-approved handheld detectors that alarm at 1.0 percent.
Training, Inspection, Battery, and Recordkeeping Rules
If the alternative is granted, Wolf Run would require manufacturer-based training before use, submission of revised training plans within 60 days after the MSHA PDO becomes final, annual retraining, MSHA Certificates of Training noting PAPR use, weekly qualified-person equipment examinations recorded in a logbook (entries may be expunged after one year), and that specified battery packs meet UL 1642 or IEC 62133 standards and be charged only on the surface using listed chargers. Batteries must be changed out in intake air outby the last open crosscut and not used if damaged or wet.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-06723, Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
Wolf Run Mining, LLC asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different way that keeps miners just as safe. This affects miners at Wolf Run’s operations and could change how safety checks are done, but won’t cost extra or reduce protection. Everyone has until May 19, 2025, to share their thoughts on this petition.
Next: 2025-06725, Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
Mingo Logan Coal, LLC is asking to change some safety rules at their mine by using a different method that keeps miners just as safe. This petition affects coal miners and could change how safety is managed without costing extra money. Everyone has until May 19, 2025, to share their thoughts on this change.