MSHA agrees to longer comment period on two rules

MSHA has agreed to a longer comment period on two regulatory items: one proposed regulation would require workplace examinations before work begins and operators to document any hazards found, and the other is MSHA’s request for information on exposure to diesel exhaust in underground operations.

With stakeholders’ perspectives on the proposed workplace exams rule due by 30 September, the NSSGA is currently writing comments in opposition to the proposal’s key provisions as MSHA is requesting feedback on the effects of documenting hazards to see if it aids or hinders operators in avoiding safety violations. Operators currently inspect work areas during shifts and address any safety issues discovered accordingly. As the safety record of the industry has improved steadily for 15 years, the proposed rule as currently written is seen as overly prescriptive by the NSSGA.

Operators have until 30 November to comment on a rule regarding worker exposure to diesel exhaust in underground operations. In June 2016, MSHA issued a request for information on the matter of underground workers’ exposure to diesel exhaust. NSSGA’s Safety and Health Subcommittee is developing comments for MSHA on this issue.

Adapted from press release by Rebecca Bowden

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/01092016/msha-agrees-to-longer-comment-period-on-two-rules-178/