U.S. Department of Labor

Mine Safety and Health Administration 4015 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, Virginia 22203-1984

ISSUE DATE: October 10, 2001

PROGRAM INFORMATION BULLETIN NO. P01-11

FROM:           MARVIN W. NICHOLS, JR.
                        Administrator
                             for Coal Mine Safety and Health

SUBJECT: Use of Previous Version of the Dust Data Card to Report "Sampling Start
                   Time"

Scope
This information bulletin applies to Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) personnel, coal mine operators, and independent contractors.

Purpose
This bulletin clarifies the information given in PIB No. P01-5, issued April 6, 2001, regarding the use of the previous version of the dust data card to report "Sampling Start Time" after September 30, 2001.

Information
The previous version of the dust data card may continue to be used after September 30, 2001, until supplies are exhausted. If used, operators and independent contractors may report the "Sampling Start Time" by writing it as a two-digit number, based on a 24-hour clock, in the space to the left of item 7 (Sampling Time). For example, if the start time is between 7:00 a.m. and 7:59 a.m., record "07," or if it is between 4:00 p.m. and 4:59 p.m., record "16." For a start time between midnight and 1 a.m., record "00."

If the start time is not recorded on the old-style dust data card, the sample will not be voided by MSHA and the computer-generated sampling report will show a "99" as the "Sampling Start Time."

Background
MSHA has received inquiries regarding the information provided in PIB No. P01-5, issued April 6, 2001, on the use of the previous version of the dust data card after September 30, 2001. Specifically, the commenters were unclear whether MSHA intended to either void samples submitted after that date not accompanied by a redesigned dust data card, or to permit the use of the previous version of the dust data card until supplies were completely exhausted.

Issuing Office and Contact Person
Coal Mine Safety and Health, Health Division
George E. Niewiadomski (703) 235-1358

Distribution
Coal Program Policy Manual Holders
CMS&H Special Interest Groups
Coal Mine Operators
Coal Independent Contractors