Coal Mines Get Relief From Old Conveyor-Belt Flame-Resistance Rules
Published Date: 6/25/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting July 27, 2026, underground coal mines will no longer have to follow old flame-resistance rules for conveyor belts that are outdated and unnecessary. This change affects mine operators by cutting red tape without adding costs or safety risks. MSHA is cleaning up the rulebook to keep things simple and safe!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Remove outdated conveyor-belt rules
Starting July 27, 2026, MSHA removes the outdated flame-resistance approval provisions in 30 CFR 75.1108(a) and (b) for conveyor belts used in underground coal mines. The rule revises paragraph (c) to require that all conveyor belts be approved under 30 CFR part 14 and deletes the obsolete December 31, 2018 compliance date.
Miner safety protections preserved
MSHA states that removing the outdated paragraphs (a) and (b) does not reduce protections for miners and that revised paragraph (c) continues to require approval of all underground conveyor belts under 30 CFR part 14. The agency explicitly says protections afforded to miners remain unchanged.
No new costs or paperwork for small mines
MSHA certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this final rule will not have a "significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities." The agency also states the rule imposes no new information-collection or recordkeeping requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-12792, Improving and Eliminating Regulations; Diesel Particulate Matter Emission Limits in Underground Coal Mines
Starting July 27, 2026, underground coal mines will no longer have to follow old diesel pollution rules that are outdated and no longer needed. This change affects mine operators by cutting unnecessary red tape without lowering safety or air quality for miners. It’s a smart cleanup that saves time and keeps things running smoothly underground!
Next: 2026-12796, Improving and Eliminating Regulations; Use of Permissible Flame Safety Lamps in Underground Coal Mines
Starting July 27, 2026, underground coal mines will no longer be allowed to use old-fashioned flame safety lamps because they’re outdated and replaced by better electric lamps and gas detectors. This change affects miners and mine operators by simplifying safety rules without adding costs. It’s a smart cleanup that keeps mining safe and modern!