MSHA’s final rule requires mine operators to have written safety programs for surface mobile equipment (excluding belt conveyors) at surface mines and surface areas of underground mines. The safety programs must include input from miners and their representatives and identify hazards and risks. District managers will discuss compliance assistance during stakeholder meetings in each district beginning in January 2024.
In recent years, powered haulage equipment and machinery have been leading causes of serious and fatal mine accidents, and this final rule is a key part of MSHA’s overall effort to improve safety in equipment use. This year the mining industry has experienced 40 mining fatalities, including 16 classified as machinery and 10 classified as powered haulage fatalities.
Other MSHA initiatives to combat the number of mining accidents, injuries, and fatalities in machinery, powered haulage equipment and other areas include safety and health alerts, the “Take Time, Save Lives” Campaign, Powered Haulage Equipment Guidance, and an Enhanced Enforcement Program.