MSHA Extends Coal Mine Sinking Safety Plan Submissions
Published Date: 1/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info about slope and shaft sinking plans at underground coal mines to keep miners safe. This proposal affects mine operators who must keep submitting these plans, with no big changes or extra costs expected. You’ve got until March 27, 2026, to share your thoughts on this paperwork extension!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Plans Aim To Protect Miner Safety
This information collection exists to make sure mine operators have slope and shaft plans that provide a safe working environment for miners. The plans are intended to minimize hazards during slope or shaft development by requiring engineering design, ventilation, and safeguards against caving.
Operators Must Submit Shaft/Slope Plans
If you operate an underground coal mine, you must prepare and submit a slope or shaft sinking plan for any slope or shaft commenced or extended after June 30, 1971. The plan must include the mine name and location, operator name and address, construction methods, elevation/depth and dimensions, coalbed location, strata characteristics, equipment to be used, ventilation system, and safeguards to prevent caving.
Paperwork Extension Keeps Same Burden
MSHA proposes to extend the existing information collection without change, so current reporting requirements continue. MSHA estimates 20 annual respondents, 50 annual responses, 1,001 annual hours of burden, and $30 in annual respondent costs, and is accepting comments through March 27, 2026.
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