MSHA Unified Agenda - [Final Rule Stage]

RIN: 1219-AB34

Publication ID: Fall 2009 

Title: High-Voltage Continuous Mining Machine Standard for Underground Coal Mines 

Abstract: MSHA’s July 16, 2004, NPRM (69 FR 42812) proposed to establish design requirements for approval of high-voltage continuous mining machines operating where miners work in underground mines. The rule also proposed to establish new mandatory electrical safety standards for the installation, use, and maintenance of the high-voltage continuous mining machines used in underground coal mines. MSHA published a supplemental NPRM on March 28, 2006 (71 FR 15359). The supplemental NPRM proposed and requested comments on two issues arising from oral and written comments that MSHA received during the hearing and post-hearing comment period on the NPRM. These issues involved: (1) The types of trailing cables that can be used with high-voltage continuous mining machines; and (2) a requirement to use high-voltage insulating gloves or other personal protective equipment when handling energized high-voltage trailing cables. MSHA regularly receives petitions for modifications from coal mine operators seeking permission to use high-voltage continuous mining machines. MSHA believes that, with appropriate safeguards, such machines are safe for use and routinely grants these petitions. 

Agency: Department of Labor(DOL) 

Priority: Other Significant 

RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda

Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 

Major: No 

Unfunded Mandates: No 

CFR Citation: 30 CFR 18; 30 CFR 75 (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.) 

Legal Authority: 30 USC 811; 30 USC 957; 30 USC 961 

Legal Deadline:  None

Timetable:

Action	Date	FR Cite
NPRM	07/16/2004	69 FR 42812
NPRM Comment Period End	08/23/2004
Second NPRM	03/28/2006	71 FR 15359
Second NPRM Comment Period End	05/30/2006
Final Action	04/00/2010

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No 

Government Levels Affected: None 

Federalism: No 

Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 

RIN Information URL: www.msha.gov/regsinfo.htm 

Public Comment URL: www.regulations.gov  

RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 

Agency Contact:
Patricia W. Silvey
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances
Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Room 631, 1100 Wilson Boulevard, Room 2350,
Arlington, VA 22209-3939
Phone:202 693-9440
Fax:202 693-9441
Email: silvey.patricia@dol.gov