Miners Scrap Unsafe Pillar Rules to Boost Underground Safety

2026-06513 — Affirmative Decisions on Petitions for Modification Granted in Whole or in Part

Mine operators and miner reps asked MSHA to approve new ways to keep mines safe between July and December 2025. MSHA reviewed these requests and said yes to some, as long as safety stays top-notch or improves. These changes might affect how mines work but won’t cut corners on safety, and you can check the full details online or in person.

2026-06516 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Kepler Processing Company wants to change some safety rules at their mine to use a different method that keeps workers just as safe. This petition could affect miners at Kepler’s site and might change how safety checks are done, but won’t cut corners on protection. Everyone has until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts, and no extra costs are expected from this change.

2026-06512 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Marfork Coal Company wants to change some safety rules at their Glen Alum Tunnel Mine. They’re asking to use a different way to keep miners safe that works just as well or better. If approved, this could affect how safety checks are done and might save the company some time or money. Everyone has until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts on this idea.

2026-06517 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Marfork Coal Company wants to change some safety rules at their Glen Alum Tunnel mine. They say their new plan will keep miners just as safe but might be easier or better to follow. If you have thoughts, speak up by May 4, 2026—this could affect how safety rules are applied and might save time or money.

2026-06518 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Marfork Coal Company asked to change some mine safety rules at their Glen Alum Tunnel mine. They want to use a different way to keep miners safe that works just as well but might be easier or cheaper. Everyone has until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts before a decision is made.

2026-06519 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Mountain Coal Company wants to change some safety rules at their West Elk Mine. They’re asking to use a different way to keep miners safe that works just as well as the current rules. If approved, this could save time and money without risking anyone’s safety. Everyone has until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts on this petition.

Previous: 2025-11738 — Trolleys

MSHA wants to update the rules by removing old trolley regulations for metal, nonmetal, and coal mines since trolleys are no longer used. Mines now use better tech like conveyor belts and battery-powered vehicles to move people and materials. This change clears up outdated rules and won’t cost mines extra money or time.

Next: 2025-11741 — Electronic Surveying Equipment in Underground Mines

MSHA wants to let underground coal mines use electronic surveying tools in dangerous, gassy areas if the gear meets safety rules. This change means mine operators won’t have to ask for special permission anymore, saving time and hassle. The new rules will kick in once finalized, making surveying safer and easier without extra costs.