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Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis

MSHA Unified Agenda - [Completed Actions]

RIN: 1219-AB58

Publication ID: Spring 2009 

Title: Refuge Alternatives for Underground Coal Mines 

Abstract: MSHA is investigating refuge alternatives for use in underground coal mines. Refuge alternatives, such as rescue chambers, and other structures or systems, could be used to increase the survival of miners trapped underground. Section 13 of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 requires the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to study refuge alternatives. Section 112(b) of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 requires MSHA to propose regulations by June 15, 2008, consistent with the recommendations of NIOSH, requiring rescue chambers in underground coal mines,or facilities that provide at least the same measure of protection, and to finalize the regulations by December 31, 2008. 

Agency: Department of Labor(DOL) 

Priority: Economically Significant 

RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda

Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Completed Actions 

Major: Yes 

Unfunded Mandates: No 

CFR Citation: 30 CFR 7; 30 CFR 50; 30 CFR 75 (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.

Legal Authority: 30 USC 811 

Legal Deadline:
Action Source Description Date

Final 

Statutory 

section 112(a) Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 

12/31/2008 

NPRM 

Statutory 

section 112(a) Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 

06/15/2008 

Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 

06/16/2008 

73 FR 34140 

NPRM Comment Period End 

08/18/2008 

 

Final Action 

12/31/2008 

73 FR 80656 

Final Action Effective 

03/02/2009 

 

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No 

Government Levels Affected: None 

Small Entities Affected: Businesses 

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
1100 Wilson Boulevard, Room 2350,
Arlington, VA 22209-3939
Phone:202 693-9440
Fax:202 693-9441
Email: silvey.patricia@dol.gov