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DOL/MSHA | RIN: 1219-AA74 | Publication ID: Spring 2000 |
Title: Diesel Particulate Matter (Exposure of Underground Coal Miners) | |
Abstract: Epidemiological studies indicate that diesel exhaust presents potential health risks to workers ranging from headaches and nausea to respiratory disease and cancer. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health considers whole diesel exhaust to be a potential occupational carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer found that diesel engine exhaust is probably carcinogenic to humans. The rule as proposed for underground coal mines requires the use of filtration to remove diesel particulate matter and requires the use of engineering and work practice controls to reduce diesel particulate matter. | |
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 72 30 CFR 75 | |
Legal Authority: 30 USC 811 30 USC 813 |
Legal Deadline:
None |
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Statement of Need: The use of diesel-powered equipment in underground mines has increased significantly and rapidly during the past decade. We estimate that approximately 13,000 miners are occupationally exposed to diesel exhaust emissions in underground coal mines. Several epidemiological studies have shown a positive carcinogenic risk associated with exposure to diesel exhaust. Other reported health effects associated with exposure to diesel exhaust include dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, nausea, decreased visual acuity, and decreased forced expiratory volume. In addition, studies by MSHA and the former Bureau of Mines show that miners working in underground mining operations that use diesel equipment are probably the most heavily exposed workers of any occupational group. Based on the levels of diesel particulate measured in underground mining operations and the evidence of adverse health effects associated with exposure to diesel exhaust, we are concerned about the potential health risk to miners. |
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Alternatives: In the fall of 1995, we held a series of public workshops to gather suggestions for possible approaches to limit miners' exposure to diesel particulate. In addition, over the past 10 years, MSHA and the former Bureau of Mines have conducted research on methodologies for the measurement and control of diesel particulate in the mining environment. This research has demonstrated that the use of low sulfur fuel, good engine maintenance, exhaust after-treatment, new engine technology, and optimized application of ventilating air all play a role in reducing miners' exposure to diesel exhaust particulate matter. We considered establishing a PEL for diesel particulate in coal mines, but found that technology for measuring it in the presence of coal mine dust is not currently feasible. Therefore, the use of filtration to remove diesel particulate matter is required by the proposed rule. |
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Anticipated Costs and Benefits: We estimate that the per year compliance costs are just over $10 million, of which underground coal mine operators would incur about $10 million and manufacturers of diesel engines and equipment would incur about $14,000. The proposed rule would reduce a significant health risk to underground miners, reducing the potential for acute sensory irritations and respiratory symptoms, lung cancer, and premature death, along with the attendant suffering and costs to the miners, their families, and society. In addition to savings related to acute health effects, we estimate that some lung cancers would also be avoided. |
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Risks: Several epidemiological studies have found that exposure to diesel exhaust presents potential health risks to workers. Laboratory tests have shown diesel exhaust to be carcinogenic in rats, as well as toxic and mutagenic. These potential adverse health effects range from headaches and nausea to respiratory disease and cancer. In the confined space of the underground mine environment, occupational exposure to diesel exhaust may present a greater hazard due to ventilation limitations and the presence of other airborne contaminants, such as toxic mine dusts or mine gases. We believe that the health evidence forms a reasonable basis for reducing miners' exposure to diesel particulate. |
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Timetable:
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes | Government Levels Affected: None |
Small Entities Affected: Businesses | Federalism: No |
Included in the Regulatory Plan: Yes | |
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 |