MSHA Speeds Up Coal Mine Conveyor Belt Approvals
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
MSHA is updating rules about conveyor belts in underground coal mines to make things simpler and faster for mine operators. They’re removing old, unnecessary steps but still keeping miners safe. These changes will save time and hassle without costing extra money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Easier Conveyor Belt Approvals
If you operate an underground coal mine, MSHA proposes to remove outdated approval steps for conveyor belts in 30 CFR part 75. The change would streamline current approval requirements for underground coal operators and save time and hassle without adding costs.
Miner Safety Protections Preserved
If you work with conveyor belts in an underground coal mine, MSHA proposes to change the approval process in 30 CFR part 75 but keep the same level of protections for miners. The proposal states these revisions would streamline requirements while maintaining miner safety and not increasing costs.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-11647 — Improving and Eliminating Regulations; Diesel Particulate Matter Emission Limits in Underground Coal Mines
MSHA wants to update rules about diesel pollution in underground coal mines by removing old limits on diesel engine emissions. This change helps mine operators by making rules simpler without lowering safety for miners. The update affects anyone running diesel equipment underground and aims to keep miners safe while cutting red tape.
Next: 2025-11738 — Trolleys
MSHA wants to update the rules by removing old trolley regulations for metal, nonmetal, and coal mines since trolleys are no longer used. Mines now use better tech like conveyor belts and battery-powered vehicles to move people and materials. This change clears up outdated rules and won’t cost mines extra money or time.