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MSHA intends to issue a request for information on the examination of working places in metal and nonmetal mines to determine the adequacy of the Agency's existing standards.  Recent fatalities in metal and nonmetal mines raised concerns that persons who examine workplaces do not always identify conditions that may adversely affect safety or health or that operators do not correct such identified conditions in a timely manner.  MSHA is seeking information, data, and comment on whether the existing standards should be revised.  The Agency would seek information relative to: (1) persons conducting the examination, (2) the quality of the examination, and (3) the recordkeeping provision, among other provisions.  MSHA also is considering whether issuing guidance or disseminating best practices regarding the existing standards would effectively accomplish the Agency's goal of providing miners a safe working place.