Mine Agency Places Silica Rule Enforcement on Temporary Pause

The US Mine Safety and Health Administration announced a temporary enforcement pause on its rule that would require coal mines to cut respirable silica levels in half.

The agency pushed the compliance date back by four months to Aug. 18—citing the unforeseen cuts at National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s field offices as the reason to grant coal miner operators the extension. NIOSH provides MSHA with critical research, training, and resource development for responding to on-the-job injuries and hazards.

“This pause will also provide MSHA time to assist industry compliance, e.g., help accredited laboratories gain proficiency in MSHA analytical ...