The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a new rule from its Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) that updates the requirements for testing, evaluating, and approving electric motor-driven mine equipment and accessories used in mines with high risks of fire and explosion. This final rule incorporates eight voluntary consensus standards approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Manufacturers and product designers now have the option to follow either ANSI's voluntary consensus standards or MSHA-specific technical requirements when seeking approval. The intention is to provide more flexibility, which could lead to increased use of innovative technologies aimed at enhancing safety in mining operations.
"This final rule was based on input from the mining community and will promote the use of innovative mine safety and health technologies while maintaining existing safeguards that protect miners from explosions and other potential hazards in gassy mines," stated Chris Williamson, Assistant Secretary for Mine Safety and Health. "Putting this rule into effect shows how MSHA uses all of its tools to advance miner safety and health."
The new rule is set to take effect on January 9, 2025.
