Mines Get Paperwork Relief: Drill Checks Now Covered Elsewhere
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
MSHA wants to remove some rules about checking and maintaining drill equipment before starting work at surface metal and nonmetal mines. These rules are already covered by other safety standards, so this change won’t make mining any less safe. This update helps simplify the rules without costing extra time or money for miners and operators.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Rescind Drill Inspection and Maintenance Rules
MSHA proposes to remove rules that require maintenance of drill equipment and inspection of drilling areas before starting drilling operations at surface metal and nonmetal mines. MSHA says these requirements are duplicative of provisions in 30 CFR part 56, and removing them will not reduce miner protections or add time or money for miners and mine operators.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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