MSHA launched inspection blitz in 57 coal mines
On the heels of the deadly West Virginia mine disaster that left 29 workers dead, MSHA launched an inspection blitz at 57 coal mines with a history of underground conditions that indicate a significant number of violations and/or conditions that may relate to methane accumulations, ventilation practices, rock dust applications and inadequate mine examinations.
MSHA approved a wireless tracking system for use in underground mines, a development prompted by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006, which requires mine operators to adopt wireless communications and electronic tracking systems by June 2009.