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DOL/MSHA RIN: 1219-AA53 Publication ID: Spring 1998 
Title: Noise Standard 
Abstract: Notwithstanding MSHA's firm enforcement of its current noise regulations, miners are continuing to incur hearing impairment. Data indicate that hearing impairment can be reduced significantly, however, if effective protective action is used both to reduce or eliminate the noise and to minimize exposure to the noise. MSHA will publish a final rule applicable to all types of mining which would require that protective measures be taken where exposure to noise is at a level lower than that which is currently permitted. The final rule may require, for example, that the mine operator make audiometric testing available and provide hearing protection under particular circumstances when a miner's exposure exceeds the "action level." 
Agency: Department of Labor(DOL)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56    30 CFR 57    30 CFR 62    30 CFR 70    30 CFR 71   
Legal Authority: 30 USC 811   
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
ANPRM  12/04/1989  54 FR 50209   
ANPRM Comment Period End  06/22/1990  55 FR 6011   
NPRM  12/17/1996  61 FR 66348   
Extension of Comment Period to 4/21/97; Notice of Public Hearings  02/06/1997  62 FR 5554   
Hearings - Date Change Extension of Comment Period to 6/20/97  03/03/1997  62 FR 9404   
Extension of Comment Period to 8/1/97  06/13/1997  62 FR 32252   
NPRM Comment Period End  08/01/1997  62 FR 32252   
Availability of Report  12/16/1997  62 FR 65777   
Request for Comments Availability  12/23/1997  62 FR 67013   
Extension of Comment Period  01/16/1998  63 FR 2642   
Final Action  06/00/1998    
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes  Government Levels Affected: None 
Small Entities Affected: Businesses 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: Yes 
Agency Contact:
Patricia W. Silvey
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances
Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Room 631, 1100 Wilson Boulevard, Room 2350,
Arlington, VA 22209-3939
Phone:202 693-9440
Fax:202 693-9441
Email: silvey.patricia@dol.gov