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DOL/MSHA

RIN: 1219-AA75

Publication ID: Spring 1999

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. The 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 final rule will 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 End	12/18/1995	60 FR 57203
Reopen Record	04/00/1999
Final Action	07/00/1999

Additional Information: MSHA reopened the record on October 18, 1995. The comment period finally closed on December 18, 1995.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes	Government Levels Affected: None
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No
Agency Contact: Marvin W. Nichols Jr. Director, Office of Standards Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration Room 2352, 1100 Wilson Boulevard, Room 2350, Arlington, VA 22209 Phone:202 693-9440 Fax:202 693-9441 Email: nichols-marvin@dol.gov