September 9, 2025 - Combustible materials in mines “shall be cleaned up and not be permitted to accumulate in active workings, or on diesel-powered and electric equipment therein,” 30 CFR 75.400 mandates.

Mine Safety and Health Administration inspectors cited violations of that standard more than any other during calendar year 2024, the agency recently announced.

By publishing its top 10 list of most frequently cited standards, MSHA says operators can “take proactive steps to correct hazardous conditions; strengthen compliance programs; and prevent injuries, illnesses and fatalities from mining.”

Here’s a look at the full list:

Accumulation of combustible materials: 3,412 violations

Moving machine parts – 56.14107(a): 2,897

Housekeeping – 56.20003(a): 2,640

Preparation and submission of MSHA Form 7000-2 – Quarterly Employment and Coal Production Report – 50.30(a): 2,568

Electrical conductors – 56.12004: 2,507

Safety defects; examination, correction and records – 56.14100(b): 2,339

Mine ventilation plan; submission and approval – 75.370(a)(1): 1,956

Inspection and cover plates – 56.12032: 1,538

Horns and backup alarms – 56.14132(a): 1,527

Roof control plan – 75.220(a)(1): 1,493

MSHA encourages mining stakeholders to “review these standards, evaluate current practices and implement corrective actions to ensure a safe mining environment.”

Looking for more top 10 lists from Department of Labor agencies? Visit safetyandhealthmagazine.com on Sept. 16, when, during the NSC Safety Congress & Expo in Denver, OSHA and Safety+Health will announce OSHA’s Top 10 most frequently cited standards for fiscal year 2025.