Pennsylvania Coal Seeks Modified Safety Standards Approval
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Notice
Summary
Consol Pennsylvania Coal Company wants to change some mine safety rules to use a different method that keeps miners just as safe. This petition affects coal miners and aims to keep safety strong while possibly making operations smoother. Comments on this change must be sent by February 11, 2026, so everyone has a chance to weigh in before any money or time impacts kick in.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Allow Specific Non‑Permissible Test Tools
If you work at Bailey Mine (MSHA ID 36-07230), Consol is asking MSHA to allow battery-powered non-permissible testing and diagnostic devices in or inby the last open crosscut. The petition specifically names vibration analyzers (Emerson AMS 2140; Bentley Nevada vb7, Scout 100 EX, Commtest Scout 140/VBX/Scout) and also lists laptops, oscilloscopes, cable fault detectors, infrared temperature devices, ultrasonic devices, electronic testers, and tachometers.
Methane Monitoring and 1% Limit
The petition would require continuous methane monitoring immediately before and during use of non-permissible electronic testing equipment, and it bars use if methane is detected at or above 1 percent. If methane reaches 1 percent or more while the equipment is in use, the device must be de-energized immediately and withdrawn outby the last open crosscut.
Pre‑Use Exams, Training, and Work Rules
The petitioner proposes that a qualified person examine non-permissible equipment before use and record results in the weekly examination book, that handheld methane detectors be MSHA-approved, and that miners receive initial and annual refresher training on the petition terms. The petition also requires liberal rock dusting at test areas, that production cease except for troubleshooting time (coal may remain on equipment for 'load' testing), and that non-permissible tools be used only when equivalent permissible tools are not available; the petition must be posted for at least 60 consecutive days.
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