Another Mine Asks to Swap One Safety Method for Another
Published Date: 7/1/2026
Notice
Summary
Mettiki Coal WV, LLC asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different way that’s just as safe for miners. This affects their coal mine operations and could change how they work without costing extra money. Everyone has until July 31, 2026, to share their thoughts on this petition.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Petition to Allow Non‑MSHA Radios
Mettiki Coal WV asked MSHA to allow the Kenwood Model NX-3200 portable radio with the Kenwood KNB-79LC 7.4‑volt battery to be used in or inby the last open crosscut at the Mountain View Mine in Tucker County, West Virginia, as an alternative to the MSHA‑approved radios under 30 CFR 75.500(d). The company says the NX-3200 with the KNB-79LC is CSA and C UL US listed and would be used only under specific controls to provide communication for miners underground.
New Training and Recordkeeping Conditions
If the petition is granted, underground miners who carry the Kenwood NX-3200 must receive task training before use under 30 CFR 48.7, annual training under 30 CFR 48.8, and new/experienced miner training under 30 CFR 48.5/48.6. Training revisions must be submitted to the MSHA District Manager within 60 days after the Proposed Decision and Order becomes final, Certificates of Training (Form 5000-23) must note the radio training, and records must be kept at a surface location for at least one year.
Operational Limits and Battery Safety Rules
The proposed alternative would limit radio use and battery handling: the NX-3200 cannot be used in or inby the last open crosscut when methane is 1.0 percent or greater; batteries (KNB-79LC) must be inspected before use and before charging; charging is allowed only in designated areas free of combustible material and in intake air outby the last open crosscut; a fire extinguisher must be present when charging; and damaged radios/batteries must be removed from service.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-15717, Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria
In response to a public request, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reopening the rulemaking record and is scheduling a virtual public hearing on the Agency's proposed rule published on July 1, 2025, titled, "Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria."
2026-15670, Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria
In response to a public request, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reopening the rulemaking record and is scheduling a virtual public hearing on the Agency's proposed rule published on July 1, 2025, titled, "Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria."
2026-10456, Department of Labor Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Annual Adjustments for 2026
Good news for businesses and workers: the Department of Labor won’t raise any fines or penalties in 2026 because the usual inflation data wasn’t available. This means all civil penalties stay the same starting May 27, 2026. So, no surprise cost hikes this year—just steady rules and steady fees!
2026-19837, Proposed Extension of Information Collection: Certification and Qualification To Examine, Test, Operate Hoists and Perform Other Duties
The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info on certifying and qualifying people who operate hoists and do related tasks in mines. This helps keep miners safe by making sure only qualified folks handle this important equipment. They’re asking for public comments by November 30, 2026, and there’s no new cost or big changes—just a smooth extension of the current process.
2026-19266, Proposed Extension of Information Collection: Refuse Piles and Impoundment Structures
The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info about refuse piles and impoundment structures to keep miners safe. They’re asking for public feedback by November 20, 2026, to make sure the paperwork isn’t too much trouble. This update won’t cost extra but helps keep safety rules clear and easy to follow for mining companies.
2026-15139, Proposed Extension of Information Collection: Safety Standards for Underground Coal Mine Ventilation-Belt Entry Used as an Intake Air Course To Ventilate Working Sections and Areas Where Mechanized Mining Equipment Is Being Installed or Removed
The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info on how underground coal mines use belt entries for fresh air while installing or removing mining gear. This helps keep miners safe by making sure ventilation rules are followed. If you’re involved in coal mining, you can share your thoughts by September 25, 2026, with no new costs or big changes planned.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-13226, Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
Stillwater Mining Company asked to change some mine safety rules to use a new way that keeps miners just as safe. This change could affect how they work and might save time or money. Everyone has until July 31, 2026, to share their thoughts before a decision is made.
Next: 2026-13228, Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
Mettiki Coal WV, LLC asked to change some mine safety rules to use a different method that keeps miners just as safe. This affects miners at Mettiki Coal and could change how safety checks are done, but won’t cost extra or reduce protection. Everyone has until July 31, 2026, to share their thoughts on this petition.