CHARLESTON - Attached for your information is a pre-publication copy of aproposed rulethat the Mine Safety and Health Administration will publish in theFederal Registertomorrow regarding the installation of proximity detection system on underground mining equipment. Also attached is afact sheetthat the agency has prepared. Comments on the rule must be submitted 90-days following publication, approximately Dec. 2, 2015.
Under the proposed rule operators of underground coal mines would be required to install proximity detection systems on mining equipment, coal hauling machines and scoops on working sections using continuous mining machines. Consistent with the proximity requirements for continuous mining machines the proposal indicates that the final rule will be phased-in over a period of 8-36 months depending upon the date of manufacture and installation of proximity technology in advance of the final rule. The proposal solicits comments on application of this rule to equipment in use off the working section. Additionally, the proposed rule is only applicable to underground coal mines however; MSHA specifically solicits comment on extending this rule to underground metal and nonmetal operations as well.