Marfork Coal Requests Easier Mine Safety Compliance Method
Published Date: 4/3/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Mine Seeks OK for Battery PAPRs
Marfork Coal Company asked MSHA to change 30 CFR 75.507-1(a) so miners at the Glen Alum Tunnel Mine in Raleigh County, West Virginia could use a 3M Versaflow TR-800-HIK powered air‑purifying respirator (PAPR) motor/blower and battery as an alternative method of compliance. The company says the PAPR gives a constant airflow that helps respiratory protection and comfort, and notes that currently no battery‑powered respirators meet applicable MSHA permissibility. MSHA is accepting public comments on the petition through May 4, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
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.
2026-06512 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
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2026-06516 — Petition for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 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.
Next: 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.
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