From: Metro News (WV)

Federal Mine Safety and Health Administration Director Joe Main says too many coal miners die or are injured from underground equipment.

In an effort to reduce the number of casualties connected to equipment failure, MSHA has proposed what is being called the proximity rule.

Main says the issue can no longer be ignored.

“When you look at the number of deaths that have occurred regarding miners being crushed in these underground mines, and you look at the number of miners that have perished this year in those accidents, I think it’s time to act,” Main said.

The proximity rule would put sensors on underground machines. If miners got too close to the equipment, it would shut down.

Main didn’t give exact specifics on the plan.

“We can’t go into the details of what the regulation is going to entail,” Main said. “The title of the rule as it stands is underground compliance.”

The proximity rule is just one of 11 new standard MSHA is proposing for the new year.

Main says it takes some time to enact meaningful policy.

“The regulatory process is not something you snap a finger at and you finalize the action tomorrow,” Main said. “It’s a process that takes time to effectively develop the rule-making action that you’re seeking to do.”

Other proposals include regulations for impoundment dams, coal mine dust and dust monitors, and operations with a pattern of violations.

The proposals come after 48 deaths in coal mines in the United States during 2010. That’s the most since 1992.

Thirty-five miners died while working in West Virginia.