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Communications and Tracking for Underground Mines
Since the Sago, Aracoma and Darby accidents and subsequent enactment of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 (MINER Act), MSHA has investigated new communications and tracking technologies. Initially, MSHA conducted a search of available technologies, published a request for information and hosted a public meeting in Washington DC in March 2006. Based upon the findings from this investigation, MSHA selected a cross-section of new technologies and conducted tests at the CONSOL Energy McElroy Mine to evaluate potential application of such technologies in underground coal mines. The findings were published in a report that is available at the link provided below. In response to the identified industry need, MSHA received a significant number of approval requests for a new generation of communications and tracking technology. MSHA devoted significant resources to the investigation of these new technologies and has issued many new approvals which are listed at the link below. Additional requests continue to be received. Our Technical Support Directorate is reviewing these products and proposals and assisting interested manufacturers in obtaining MSHA approval. We have also been working with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as well as the NMA/BCOA Communication and Tracking Partnership to assist interested parties in arranging field tests of their systems to facilitate development. MSHA wishes to thank NIOSH, the NMA and the BCOA for their efforts in furthering the development of these important technologies. Manufacturers must obtain the appropriate MSHA approvals for the systems to be used in gassy underground mines. We encourage all interested manufacturers of communication and tracking technologies to contact us. Interested parties should contact David Chirdon at chirdon.david@dol.gov
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