November 18, 2020 - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) today announced a proposed rule incorporating national and international voluntary consensus standards related to electric motor-driven mine equipment and accessories.

Under the proposed rule, mine operators could use equipment and accessories that meet either 14 voluntary consensus standards or the existing MSHA approval requirements during a one-year transition period. Following the transition period, operators would use the consensus standards for equipment and accessories covered by consensus standards.

The proposed rule would improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the product approval process and promote the use of innovative technologies for improved mine safety and health.

The proposed rule can be viewed at the Office of the Federal Register’s Public Inspection Desk.

Miners and mine operators can find safety and health information on MSHA.gov.