MSHA
MSHA to publish rule to amend civil penalty regulations
In order to emphasize the importance of safe working conditions in mines, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is going to publish a proposed rule to amend existing civil penalty regulations. The rule, which will… Keep Reading
NSSGA to host webinar on mitigation strategies
The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) is hosting a webinar aimed at developing mitigation strategies for the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s (MSHA) elevated enforcement. The online webinar, titled “Strategies to Mitigate MSHA Elevated Enforcement,” will provide metal/nonmetal… Keep Reading
MSHA update shows increase in mid-year fatality rates
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) released a summary of fatalities in the mining industry that indicates an increase in the mid-year fatality count. Twenty-two miners were killed in the first half of 2014, reversing… Keep Reading
In the heat of summer
Mid-July temperatures are baking the usual hot spots in North America. And while a blast of polar air will cool things a bit in the Midwest early this week, the heat will return soon enough. With that in mind, the… Keep Reading
MSHA sues to allow inspectors into mine
The Associated Press reports that a sand and gravel mine in Jamestown, N.D., would not let MSHA inspectors enter the mine on three occasions to investigate complaints about safety. As a result, the U.S. Dept. of Labor filed a lawsuit… Keep Reading
MSHA can take control after mine accidents
Companies subject to OSHA are inspected after accidents, but employers are under no legal obligation to shut down all or part of their operations. In addition, companies are not required to correct conditions unless a citation is issued. And even… Keep Reading
MSHA details violations of California operation
Inspectors issued 172 citations, 21 orders and two safeguards during special impact inspections conducted at two metal/nonmetal mines and 10 coal mines, according to MSHA. MSHA shared one operation's inspection details: BCJ Sand and Rock Inc. of Butte County, Calif.… Keep Reading
Loader technology, MSHA enforcement focus of upcoming webinars
Two educational opportunities in NSSGA's AGG1 Online webinar series are available later this summer. Luck Stone Corp.'s 988 remote-control wheel loader will be the focus of a July 15 webinar. Presenters will discuss how the technology can help to improve… Keep Reading
Why 2014 is the year of the workers’ voice
MSHA has recently expressed concern about fatalities in the aggregates industry and about employees taking risks by not focusing on potential consequences. The agency has emphasized that fundamental procedures, such as locking out and blocking equipment, are indispensable to preventing… Keep Reading
