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DOL/MSHA RIN: 1219-AB78 Publication ID: Spring 2017 
Title: Proximity Detection Systems for Mobile Machines in Underground Mines 
Abstract:

This final rule addresses hazards miners face when working near mobile equipment in underground mines. MSHA has concluded, from investigations of accidents involving mobile equipment and other reports, that action is needed to protect miner safety. Mobile equipment can pin, crush, or strike a miner working near the equipment. Proximity detection technology can prevent these types of accidents. The proposed rule would strengthen the protection for underground miners by reducing the potential of pinning, crushing, or striking hazards associated with working close to mobile equipment.

 
Agency: Department of Labor(DOL)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Long-Term Actions 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: 30 CFR 75   
Legal Authority: 30 U.S.C. 811   
Legal Deadline:  None

Statement of Need:

Mining is one of the most hazardous industries in this country. Miners continue to be injured or killed from pinning, crushing, or striking accidents involving mobile equipment. Equipment is available to help prevent accidents that cause debilitating injuries and accidental death.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

Promulgation of this standard is authorized by section 101(a) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977, as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006.

Alternatives:

No reasonable alternatives to this regulation would be as comprehensive or as effective in eliminating hazards and preventing injuries.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

MSHA's proposed rule included an estimate of the anticipated cost and benefits. 

Risks:

The lack of proximity detection systems on mobile equipment in underground mines contributes to a higher incidence of debilitating injuries and accidental deaths.

Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
Request for Information (RFI)  02/01/2010  75 FR 5009   
RFI Comment Period End  04/02/2010 
NPRM  09/02/2015  80 FR 53070   
Scheduling of Public Hearing  09/28/2015  80 FR 58229   
Public Hearing--Denver, Colorado 10/06/2015  10/06/2015 
Public Hearing--Birmingham, Alabama 10/08/2015  10/08/2015 
Public Hearing--Beaver, West Virginia 10/19/2015  10/19/2015 
Public Hearing--Indianapolis, Indiana 10/29/2015  10/29/2015 
NPRM Comment Period Extended  11/30/2015  80 FR 74740   
NPRM Comment Period Extended End  12/15/2015 
NPRM Comment Period Reopened  01/09/2017  82 FR 2285   
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End  02/08/2017 
Next Action Undetermined  To Be Determined 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: None 
Small Entities Affected: Businesses  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: Yes 
RIN Information URL: www.msha.gov/regsinfo.htm   Public Comment URL: www.regulations.gov  
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Related RINs: Related to 1219-AB65 
Agency Contact:
Sheila McConnell
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances
Department of Labor
Mine Safety and Health Administration
201 12th Street South, Room 4E401,
Arlington, VA 22202-5452
Phone:202 693-9440
Fax:202 693-9441
Email: mcconnell.sheila.a@dol.gov