On Dec. 10, MSHA published a final rule that allows the use of eight voluntary consensus standards approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for electric mining equipment approvals. This final rule allows product manufacturers and designers seeking MSHA approval to follow either the ANSI-approved voluntary consensus standards or the existing MSHA-specific technical requirements.
This final rule updates MSHA’s testing, evaluation and approval requirements for electric motor-driven mine equipment and accessories (such as longwall mining systems and portable oxygen detectors) intended for use in gassy mines where hazardous atmospheres can pose fire or explosion risks.
MSHA is incorporating by reference eight ANSI-approved voluntary consensus standards and will accept them as alternatives to the existing MSHA-specific technical requirements.
With this final rule, MSHA is providing more flexibility to product designers and manufacturers seeking approval for electrical equipment used in gassy mines, which will expand the use of innovative and advanced technologies in U.S. mines.
At the same time, MSHA will continue to administer its testing, evaluation and approval program to ensure that this equipment can be safely operated by miners in hazardous environments. The final rule will thus promote technological improvements in mining practices that lead to improvements in the safety and health of miners.
The final rule will take effect on Jan. 9, 2025.