Mining/Oil/Gas

Washington — The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission is accepting comment on a proposed rule that would amend and update agency rules for implementing the Freedom of Information Act of 1966.

Washington — The Mine Safety and Health Administration is seeking comment on a proposed rule that would require certain mine operators to establish a written safety program for mobile and powered haulage equipment.

Arlington, VA — The Mine Safety and Health Administration has scheduled a conference call for Sept. 29 to provide stakeholders with agency news and collect feedback.

Washington — NIOSH has finalized the beta version of an online software tool designed to provide post-shift assessments of mine worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

Washington — The House passed a package of seven appropriations bills – including one that would give budget increases to worker safety agencies – with a 219-208 vote July 29.

Charlottesville, VA — Coal miners with black lung disease commonly face various mental health issues, including thoughts of suicide, results of a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Virginia show.

Arlington, VA — Alarmed by a recent surge in fatal and nonfatal work-related injuries involving powered haulage activity, the Mine Safety and Health Administration on July 20 will host a national Stand Down for Safety Day to help educate miners and employers in a bid to reduce injuries.

Washington — A House subcommittee has approved a funding bill that would give a $100 million increase to OSHA’s budget for fiscal year 2022, among other actions.

Toronto — Findings over the past decade – including the results of case studies in the past two to three years – have strengthened the link between the lung disease sarcoidosis and on-the-job exposures to, most notably, silica and silicates, dust from the World Trade Center, and metals, according to a recent research review.

Washington — NIOSH has planned a series of free, confidential health screenings for current and former coal miners via the agency’s Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program.