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DOL/MSHA RIN: 1219-AB34 Publication ID: Spring 2008 
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) 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: Long-Term Actions 
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  69 FR 51784 
Second NPRM  03/28/2006  71 FR 15359 
Second NPRM Comment Period End  05/30/2006  71 FR 15359 
Final Action  To Be Determined   
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

 



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