Since the Sago, Aracoma, and Darby accidents and subsequent enactment of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 (MINER Act) , MSHA has investigated new communications and tracking technologies. Initially, MSHA conducted a search of available technologies, published a request for information, and hosted a public meeting in Washington, DC in March 2006. Based upon the findings, MSHA selected a cross-section of technologies and conducted tests at the CONSOL Energy McElroy Mine to evaluate their application in underground coal mines. In response to industry needs, MSHA received numerous approval requests for new communication and tracking technologies. The Technical Support Directorate reviews these products and assists manufacturers in obtaining MSHA approval. Manufacturers must obtain appropriate MSHA approvals for systems used in gassy underground mines. Interested manufacturers are encouraged to contact MSHA. Contact: Wesley Shumaker (shumaker.wesley@dol.gov) Mine Communications and Tracking Tutorial (PDF) This document is a working draft intended to provide relevant information to labor, industry, regulators, and academia regarding communications and tracking systems used for MINER Act compliance.
MSHA-Approved Communication and Tracking Technologies
Program Policy Letters
Compliance Guide
Publications
Public Meeting on Communications and Tracking Technologies
System Tests at CONSOL Energy, Inc., McElroy Mine
NIOSH Resources
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