Feds Renew Glow-in-the-Dark Mine Safety Logs
Published Date: 3/25/2026
Notice
Summary
The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info about radiation exposure to keep miners safe. They’re asking for public feedback by May 26, 2026, to make sure the paperwork isn’t too much and is easy to understand. This extension won’t add new costs but helps keep important safety checks running smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mine operators must sample and record radon
If you run a mine, you must take radon daughter air samples and record the date, location, and results. Sampling frequency depends on measured levels: a single exhaust sample is required; if samples exceed 0.1 working levels (WL) follow-up sampling rules apply (e.g., every two weeks in uranium mines, weekly where >0.3 WL until 5 consecutive weeks ≤0.3 WL); records must be kept at the mine or nearest office for at least two years.
Worker exposure records and annual reporting
Mine operators must calculate and record individual radon daughter exposures (using Form 4000-9 or equivalent) for all underground personnel in uranium mines and for workers in non-uranium mines where areas exceed 0.3 WL. Operators must submit copies of Form 4000-9 for required personnel to MSHA on or before February 15 each year (or within 45 days after shutdown), correct submitted errors within 60 days, retain or submit records per ANSI N13.8-1973, and provide year-to-date and cumulative exposure statements to a worker on written request.
Signs and respirator rules for high-radon inactive areas
Inactive mine workings with radon daughter concentrations above 1.0 WL must be posted against unauthorized entry and marked with signs stating that approved respirators must be worn. MSHA also makes the blank Form 4000-9 available on request.
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