A mine safety rule from the U.S. Department of Labor is requiring mine operators to write safety programs for mobile equipment used in surface and underground mining.
It’s meant to protect miners from accidents, injuries and fatalities. The department’s Mine Safety and Health Administration says accidents involving powered haulage equipment and machinery have been the leading causes of mining deaths in recent years.
A summary of the rule says the programs “must include actions mine operators will take to identify hazards and risks to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities related to surface mobile equipment.” They must also be written with input from miners and their representatives.
The MSHA reports two deaths in Kentucky mines this year involving machinery. That includes one at a coal mine in Morgan County and another at a sandstone mine in Pike County. 26 fatalities from machinery and powered haulage have been reported nationwide.
The rule was published in the Federal Register on Wednesday. Full compliance with the rule is required starting July 17, 2024.
