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DOL/MSHA

RIN: 1219-AA75

Publication ID: Fall 1997

Title: Longwall Equipment (Including High-Voltage)
Abstract: Since 1970, MSHA regulations have required that high-voltage cables and transformers be kept at least 150 feet from the coal extraction area. The objective of this requirement is to prohibit the use of high-voltage cables and equipment that could serve as an ignition source for methane and coal dust in close proximity to the work area. ^PThe modern development of highly productive longwall mining systems has resulted in their widespread use in the mining industry. Mine operators, however, currently must apply to MSHA for a variance from the existing standards in order to use this high-voltage equipment. The increased use of high-voltage longwalls in underground coal mines in recent years has led to the design of safe high-voltage electrical equipment and associated cables. These improvements have occurred specifically in the area of design and construction of explosion-proof equipment; insulation, short circuit, ground fault, and mechanical protection of cables; and equipment for safe handling of cables. For these reasons, in August 1992 MSHA published a proposed rule to establish safety requirements for the design, construction, installation, use, and maintenance of high-voltage longwall equipment and associated cables. The proposal would eliminate the need for a variance to use this equipment.
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 18 30 CFR 75
Legal Authority: 30 USC 811 30 USC 957

Timetable:

Action	Date	FR Cite
NPRM	08/27/1992	57 FR 39036
NPRM Comment Period End	11/13/1992	57 FR 46350
Reopen Record	10/18/1995	60 FR 53891
Extension of Comment Period	11/14/1995	60 FR 57203
Comment Period Closed	12/18/1995	60 FR 57203
Final Action	05/00/1998

Additional Information: MSHA reopened the record on October 18, 1995. The comment period finally closed on December 18, 1995.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No	Government Levels Affected: None
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No
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