[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 96 (Wednesday, May 19, 1999)]
[Notices]
[Pages 27301-27309]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-12550]
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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Summary of Decisions Granting in Whole or in Part Petitions for
Modification
AGENCY: Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Labor.
ACTION: Notice of affirmative decisions issued by the Administrators
for Coal Mine Safety and Health and Metal and Nonmetal Mine Safety and
Health on petitions for modification of the application of mandatory
safety standards.
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SUMMARY: Under section 101 of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of
1977, the Secretary of Labor may allow the modification of the
application of a mandatory safety standard to a mine if the Secretary
determines either that an alternate method exists at a specific mine
that will guarantee no less protection for the miners affected than
that provided by the standard, or that the application of the standard
at a specific mine will result in a diminution of safety to the
affected miners.
Final decisions on these petitions are based upon the petitioner's
statements, comments and information submitted by interested persons,
and a field investigation of the conditions at the mine. MSHA has
granted or partially granted the requests for modification submitted by
the petitioners listed below. In some instances, the decisions are
conditioned upon compliance with stipulations stated in the decision.
The cite following ``FR Notice:'' refers to the issue of the Federal
Register where MSHA published the notice that the petitioner was
seeking a modification.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Petitions and copies of the final decisions
are available for examination by the public in the Office of Standards,
Regulations, and Variances, MSHA, Room 627, 4015 Wilson Boulevard,
Arlington, Virginia 22203. Contact Barbara Barron at 703-235-1910.
Dated: May 13, 1999.
Carol J. Jones,
Acting Director, Office of Standards, Regulations and Variances.
Affirmative Decisions on Petitions for Modification
Docket No.: M-98-001-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11696.
Petitioner: Remington Coal Company, Inc. (formerly Day Mining,
Inc.).
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use 2,400 volt cables
to power high-voltage longwall equipment considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted with conditions for the Stockburg No. 1
Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-003-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11696.
Petitioner: Pine Ridge Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use 2,400 volt cables
to power high-voltage equipment inby the last open crosscut at
continuous miner sections considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted with conditions for the Big Mountain No. 16 Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-004-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11696.
Petitioner: Pine Ridge Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use 2,400 volt cables
to power high-voltage equipment inby the last open crosscut at
continuous miner sections considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted with conditions for the Robin Hood No. 9 Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-009-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11696.
Petitioner: FKZ Coal, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.335.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to permit alternative
methods of construction of seals using wooden materials of moderate
size and weight due to the difficulty in accessing previously driven
headings and breasts containing inaccessible abandoned workings; to
accept a design criteria in the 10 psi range; and to permit the water
trap to be installed in the gangway seal and sampling tube in the
monkey seal for seals installed in pairs considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the No. 1 Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-012-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11697.
Petitioner: FKZ Coal, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1400.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a slope
conveyance (gunboat) in transporting persons without installing safety
catches or other no less effective devices but instead to use increased
rope strength/safety factor and secondary safety rope connection in
place of such devices considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the No. 1 Vein Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-016-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11697.
Petitioner: G & P Contractors, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install two five
pound or one ten pound portable chemical fire extinguisher in the
operator's deck of each Mescher tractor operated at the mine and to
have this fire extinguisher readily accessible to the operator; to
inspect each fire extinguisher daily prior to entering the escapeway;
to keep at the mine a daily record of the inspection; to have a
sufficient number of spare fire extinguishers maintained at the mine in
case a fire extinguisher becomes defective; and to provide training to
each employee operating the Mescher tractor on the proper procedures
for conducting daily inspections of the fire extinguisher considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Goodin Creek Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-017-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11697.
Petitioner: Lodestar Energy, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a minimum of 4-
feet of clearance on a secondary escapeway at its Wheatcroft mine
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Wheatcroft
Mine with conditions for locations of reduced width in approximately
twenty feet of the secondary escapeway near and between the slope coal
haulage conveyor tail roller guarding to the No. 2 belt drive head
support beam.
Docket No.: M-98-018-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 11697.
Petitioner: G & P Contractors, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.342.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use hand-held
continuous-duty methane and oxygen detectors instead of machine-mounted
methane monitors on permissible three-wheel tractors with drag bottom
buckets considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the
Goodin Creek Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-019-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18232.
Petitioner: Energy West Mining Company.
[[Page 27302]]
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to amend the Decision
and Order Granting Petition for Modification No. M-94-166-C is granted.
The Assistant Secretary had granted a modification of 30 CFR 75.350 to
enable the company to conduct longwall mining with two rather than
three entries in longwall panels under deep cover. The Assistant
Secretary had concluded that mining under deep cover with more than two
entries would result in a diminution of safety. The current
modification amends the conditions under which the original
modification was granted to accommodate the high-pressure emulsion
station within the two-entry longwall retreat sections at Energy West's
Trail Mountain Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-020-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18232.
Petitioner: Energy West Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.352.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to amend the Decision
and Order Granting Petition for Modification No. M-94-167-C is granted.
The Assistant Secretary had granted a modification of 30 C.F.R.
Sec. 73.352 to enable the company to conduct longwall mining with two
rather than three entries in longwall panels under deep cover. The
Assistant Secretary had concluded that mining under deep cover with
more than two entries would result in a diminution safety. The current
modification amends the conditions under which the original
modification was granted to accommodate the high-pressure emulsion
station within the two-entry longwall retreat sections at Energy West's
Trail Mountain Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-023-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18232.
Petitioner: Fray Mining, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 77.214.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow construction of
a refuse bench fill in an area containing abandoned mine openings
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Mine No. 2
with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-025-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18233.
Petitioner: Marrowbone Development Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use an automatic fire
detection system based on carbon monoxide monitoring of the underground
conveyor entries to allow air coursed through conveyor belt entries to
be used to ventilate active working places and to install a carbon
monoxide detection system as an early warning fire detection system in
all belt entries used to course intake air to a working place
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the North
Marrowbone Creek Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-026-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18233.
Petitioner: Marrowbone Development Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use permanently
installed spring-loaded locking devices instead of padlocks on battery
plugs and to install and maintain spring-loaded locking devices on
battery plugs to prevent the threaded rings that secure the battery
plugs to the battery receptacles from loosening unintentionally
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the North
Marrowbone Creek Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-027-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 18233.
Petitioner: Eagle Energy, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use 4,160 volt cables
to power longwall equipment considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Mine No. 1 with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-029-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 29034.
Petitioner: Joliett Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1400.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a slope
conveyance (gunboat) in transporting persons without installing safety
catches or other no less effective devices but instead to use increased
rope strength/safety factor and secondary safety rope connection in
place of such devices considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the No. 3 Vein Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-98-033-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 29034.
Petitioner: Sea ``B'' Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1710.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to operate self-
propelled electric face equipment without canopies because of the
mining heights less than 46 inches at the Silver Creek Mine considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted with conditions for the three
center-driven Joy 21SC shuttle cars, Serial Nos. ET11685, ET13646
standard drive reel, and ET16734 off-standard reel; for the S&S Scoop
CX2, Serial No. CX2 323; for the Long Airdox Scoop 482, Serial No. 482-
2240; and, for the Fletcher Roof Bolting Machine, Model RD RR11 w/T-Bar
ATRS, Serial No. 97095, in heights (floor to roof) less than 46 inches.
Docket No.: M-98-062-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 44292.
Petitioner: Independence Coal Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
longwall mining equipment and the nominal voltage of power circuits for
this equipment would not exceed 2,400 volts considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted with conditions for the 2,400-volt
continuous miner system(s) used at the Justice No. 1 Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-063-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 44292.
Petitioner: Independence Coal Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
longwall mining equipment and the nominal voltage of power circuits for
this equipment would not exceed 2,400 volts considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted with conditions for the 2,400-volt
continuous miner system(s) used at the Jack's Branch Buffalo Creek
Mine.
Docket No.: M-98-086-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 58431.
Petitioner: Kedco, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
2,400 volt cables to power continuous mining machines in and inby the
last open crosscut considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
with conditions for the 2,400-volt continuous miner system used at the
No. 2 Mine.
Docket No.: M-97-004-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 11926.
Petitioner: Eastern Mingo Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use (2,300 volt) a.c.
electricity to power continuous mining equipment considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted with conditions for the 2,400-volt
continuous miner used at the Big Branch Mine.
Docket No.: M-97-020-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23797.
Petitioner: Becky Coal Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install two number
five or
[[Page 27303]]
one number ten portable chemical fire extinguisher in the operator's
deck of each Mescher tractor operated at its mine; to have the fire
extinguisher readily accessible to the operator; and to have each fire
extinguisher inspected daily by the equipment operator prior to
entering the escapeway and if any defects are found replace the
extinguisher before entering considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Mine No. 5 with conditions for Mescher three wheel
tractors to be operated in the primary intake escapeway.
Docket No.: M-97-027-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23798.
Petitioner: Arclar Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use intake air from
belt haulage entries to ventilate the active working places and to
install and maintain a carbon monoxide monitoring system along the
beltline considered acceptable alternative method. Granted with
conditions to allow air coursed through conveyor belt entries to be
used to ventilate working places.
Docket No.: M-97-029-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23798.
Petitioner: Arch of Illinois.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.323.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to have the section's
transformer located in the intake air/power entry and maintained at
least 300 feet away from any type of mining (development or secondary
mining/winging) and that the intake would feed the air to the active
working face, the gob area, and around the bleeder system considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Conant Mine with
conditions for application only during the second mining process known
as ``winging'' using the Archveyor system.
Docket No.: M-97-034-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23799.
Petitioner: Tanoma Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.326 (now 75.350).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to amend paragraph 1(b)
by adding ``when pillaring, inby sensor is to be located at least 150
feet but no more than 160 feet from the inby end of the RFM''
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-035-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23799.
Petitioner: Birdeye Coal Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install two number
five or one number ten portable chemical fire extinguisher in the
operator's deck considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for
No. 4 Mine for Mescher three wheel tractors to be operated in the
primary intake escapeway.
Docket No.: M-97-050-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 29372.
Petitioner: Canyon Fuel Company, LLC.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
4,160 volt cables to supply power to longwall equipment used inby the
last open crosscut considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the SUFCO for the 4,160-volt longwall equipment.
Docket No.: M-97-060-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 34311.
Petitioner: B. and B. Anthracite Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to conduct examinations
of areas from the gunboat/slope car with an alternative air quality
evaluation at the section's intake level, and to travel and thoroughly
examine these areas for hazardous conditions once a month considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock Ridge No. 1 Slope
Mine with conditions for 30 CFR 75.364(b)(4), to conduct examinations
of the seals located along the return and bleeder air courses from the
ladder on a weekly basis, not monthly as proposed by petitioner.
Docket No.: M-97-062-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 34311.
Petitioner: B. and B. Anthracite Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement
mine maps annually instead of every 6 months, as required, and to
update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Rock Ridge No. 1 Slope Mine with conditions for
annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.
Docket No.: M-97-064-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 34311.
Petitioner: Consolidation Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to establish evaluation
points P and Q that would be maintained in safe condition; and to have
a certified person test for methane and the quantity of air at both
check points on a weekly basis and place their initials, date, and time
in a record book kept on the surface and made available for inspection
by interested persons considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the Shoemaker Mine with conditions for the unsafe-to-travel 1780-
foot segment of the 4 South and East Returns return aircourse near
Whittaker Air Shaft and Portal area.
Docket No.: M-97-067-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 34312.
Petitioner: Old Ben Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use in lieu of a
padlock a Spring-Loaded Plug Interlock attached to the receptacle and
permanently attached to the battery-case so that when the battery-plugs
are secured and the spring loaded interlock is released, the threaded
ring securing the battery plugs cannot become loose considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Ziegler No. 11 Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-073-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 38123.
Petitioner: Apogee Coal Company (dBA Arch of Illinois).
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of
high-voltage trailing cables (2400 Vac) inby the last open crosscut and
within 150 feet of pillar workings at the continuous miner sections
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Conant Mine
with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-077-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 38123.
Petitioner: Apogee Coal Company (dBA Arch of Illinois).
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.701.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of a
diesel-powered generator to supply power to mobile mining equipment
when the equipment is being moved from one area to another without
grounding the neutral to a low resistance ground field considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the 480-volt, three-phase,
200KW/250 KVA DPG set supplying power to a 250 KVA three-phase
transformer and three-phase power circuits.
Docket No.: M-97-078-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 38123.
Petitioner: Eastern Associated Coal Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.507.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a 2300-volt
three-phase alternating current electric power circuit
[[Page 27304]]
for the pump, and the power circuit would be designed and installed to
contain (1) either a direct or derived neutral which would be grounded
through a suitable resistor at the source transformer or power center;
(2) a grounding circuit originating at the grounded side of the
grounding resistor that would extend along with the power conductors
and serve as the grounding conductor for the frame of the pump and all
the associated electric equipment where power is supplied from the
circuit; (3) a grounding resistor that would limit the ground fault
current to no more that 15 amperes; (4) a suitable circuit breaker to
provide protection against grounded phase, undervoltage, short circuit,
and overload; (5) a disconnecting device; and (6) a fail-safe ground
check circuit considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the
Harris No. 1 Mine and Lightfoot No. 2 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-079-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 38124.
Petitioner: Consolidation Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
cables not extending 4,160 volts inby the last open crosscut and has
listed in the petition specific terms and conditions for their safe use
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Blacksville
No. 2 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-082-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 44724.
Petitioner: Tanoma Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to plug and mine through
oil and gas wells considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for
the Tanoma Mine with conditions for mining through or near (whenever
the safety barrier diameter is reduced to a distance less than the
District Manager would approve pursuant to Section 75.1700) plugged oil
or gas wells penetrating the Lower Kittanning Coal Seam.
Docket No.: M-97-084-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 44724.
Petitioner: Turris Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use intake air coming
from belt haulage entries to ventilate workings and to install a carbon
monoxide monitoring system as an early warning system along belt
haulage entries considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for
the Turris Coal Company with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-087-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 46379.
Petitioner: Costain Coal, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1103-4.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install one CO sensor
not more than 100 feet downwind of where both the tailpiece and belt
drive are located, and at intervals not to exceed 2,000 feet along each
conveyor belt entry considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the Smith Underground No. 1 Mine with conditions for the use of a
carbon monoxide monitoring system that identifies the location of
sensors in lieu of identifying belt flights.
Docket No.: M-97-089-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 46379.
Petitioner: Garrett Mining, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use belt haulage
entries as intake air courses for ventilation of active working places,
and to install a low-level CO monitoring system as an early warning
fire detection system in all belt entries used as intake air courses
considered alternative method. Granted for the No. 2 Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-090-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 46379.
Petitioner: Costain Coal, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a spring-loaded
device with specific characteristics instead of a padlock to secure
plugs and electrical type connectors to batteries and to the
permissible mobile powered equipment the batteries serve considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Smith Underground No. 1
Mine with conditions for the use of permanently installed spring-loaded
locking devices in lieu of padlocks on battery plugs.
Docket No.: M-97-091-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 46379.
Petitioner: G & P Contractors, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install two 5-pound
or one 10-pound portable chemical fire extinguisher in the operator's
deck of each Mescher tractor readily accessible to the operator; to
have the fire extinguisher inspected daily by the equipment operator
prior to entering the escapeway; to have the operator make a record of
the daily inspections and keep them at the mine site; and to have a
sufficient number of spare fire extinguishers maintained at the mine in
case an extinguisher becomes defective considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Stoney Fork Mine No. 2 with
conditions for Mescher three wheel tractors to be operated in the
primary intake escapeway.
Docket No.: M-97-094-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 46380.
Petitioner: Consolidation Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.804.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a high-voltage
cable with an internal ground check conductor smaller than No. 10
(A.W.G.) as a part of its longwall mining system considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Shoemaker Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-097-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51910.
Petitioner: CONSOL of Kentucky, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1101-8.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a single overhead
pipe system with \1/2\-inch orifice automatic sprinklers located on 10-
foot centers, located to cover 50 feet of fire-resistant belt or 150
feet of non-fire resistant belt, with actuation temperatures between
200 and 230 degrees Fahrenheit and with water pressure equal to or
greater than 10 psi; to have the sprinklers located not more than 10
feet apart, so that the discharge of water will extend over the belt
drive, belt take-up, electrical control, and gear reducing unit
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Big Springs
No. 6 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-098-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51910.
Petitioner: Eastern Associated Coal Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
cables (2400-volt) inby the last open crosscut at the longwall working
sections considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the
Harris No. 1 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-099-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51910.
Petitioner: Lodestar Energy, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503 (18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a spring-loaded
device with specific fastening characteristics instead of a padlock to
secure plugs and electrical type connectors to batteries and to the
permissible mobile powered equipment to prevent accidental separation
of the battery plugs from their receptacles during normal
[[Page 27305]]
operation of the battery equipment considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Baker Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-100-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51910.
Petitioner: Eastern Associated Coal Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to request that
paragraph 28 of the PDO be amended to provide at least one escapeway on
the tailgate side of the longwall face considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Federal No. 2 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-102-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51908.
Petitioner: Mark P. Shingara Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.335.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to permit alternative
methods of seal construction using wooden materials of moderate size
and weight due to the difficulty in accessing previously driven
headings and breasts containing inaccessible abandoned workings; to
accept a design criteria in the 10 psi range; and to permit the water
trap to be installed in the gangway seal and sampling tube in the
monkey seal for seals installed in pairs considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the No. 4 Vein Slope with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-103-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51908.
Petitioner: Mark P. Shingara Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.360.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to visually examine each
seal for physical damage from the slope gunboat during the preshift
examination after an air quality reading is taken in by the intake
portal and to test for the quantity and quality of air at the intake
air split locations off the slope in the gangway portion of the working
section considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the No. 4
Vein Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-104-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51909.
Petitioner: Mark P. Shingara Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine these areas
from the gunboat/slope car with an alternative air quality evaluation
at the section's intake level, and travel and thoroughly examine these
areas for hazardous conditions once a month considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the No. 4 Vein Slope Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-108-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51909.
Petitioner: Mark P. Shingara Coal.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1400.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a slope
conveyance (gunboat) in transporting persons without installing safety
catches or other no less effective devices but instead use increased
rope strength/safety factor and secondary safety rope connection in
place of such devices considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the No. 4 Vein Slope with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-109-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51909.
Petitioner: Oxbow Carbon & Minerals, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.804.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of
Anaconda Type SHD+GC, Pirelli Type SHD-Center-GC, Tiger Brand Type SHD-
CGC, and other brands of identical construction flame-resistant cables
on the high-voltage longwall system(s) and that these cables would
utilize a flexible No. 16 A.W.G. ground check conductor for the ground
continuity check circuit considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Sanborn Creek Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-110-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 51909.
Petitioner: Oxbow Carbon & Minerals, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use 2,400 volt cables
to power longwall equipment considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Sanborn Creek Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-114-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 59893.
Petitioner: Roberts Bros. Coal Co., Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a spring-loaded
device with specific fastening characteristics instead of a padlock to
secure plugs and electrical type connectors to batteries and to the
permissible mobile powered equipment, to prevent accidental separation
of the battery plugs from their receptacles during normal operation of
the battery equipment and in the event of a battery fire, the spring-
loaded device can be disconnected much faster and safer than a padlock
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Cardinal No.
2 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-115-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 59893.
Petitioner: BJM Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of a
spring-loaded locking device instead of padlocks to secure battery
plugs to machine mounted receptacles which would prevent the threaded
lock ring on a plug from turning and coming loose unintentionally
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Camp Creek
Deep Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-116-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 59893.
Petitioner: BJM Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of a
spring-loaded locking device instead of padlocks to secure battery
plugs to machine mounted receptacles which would prevent the threaded
lock ring on a plug from turning and coming loose unintentionally
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Mine No. 9b
with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-119-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 63727.
Petitioner: The Pittsburg & Midway Coal Mining Co.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of a
spring-loaded device with specific fastening characteristics with its
fastening configuration to secure plugs and electrical-type connectors
to batteries and to the permissible mobile-powered equipment, which the
batteries serve, instead of using a padlock considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Sebree No. 1 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-121-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 63727.
Petitioner: Consol of Kentucky, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1101-8.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to permit the use of a
single line of automatic sprinklers for its fire protection system on
main and secondary belt conveyor and the use of a single overhead pipe
system with \1/2\-inch orifice automatic sprinklers located on 10-foot
centers, located to cover 50 feet of fire-resistant belt or 150 feet of
non-fire resistant belt, with actuation temperatures between 200 to 230
degrees Fahrenheit, and with water pressure equal to or greater than 10
psi; to locate the sprinklers not more than 10 feet apart so that the
discharge of water
[[Page 27306]]
will extend over the belt drive, belt take-up, electrical control, and
gear reducing unit; to conduct a test using the specific procedures
outlined in this petition during the installation of each new system,
during any subsequent repair or replacement of any critical part, and
annually to ensure proper operation considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Ridge No. 8 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-125-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 63728.
Petitioner: Island Creek Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a spring-loaded
metal locking device instead of padlocks to secure battery charging
plugs to machine-mounted battery receptacles on permissible, mobile,
battery-powered scoop cars considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Ohio No. 11 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-127-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 63728.
Petitioner: Genwal Resources, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1101-8.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a water sprinkler
system with a single overhead pipe system and automatic sprinklers
located not more than 10 feet apart so that the water discharged from
the sprinklers will cover 50 feet of fire resistant belt, or 150 feet
of non-fire resistant belt adjacent to the belt drive; and to permit
automatic sprinklers(s) will cover the drive motor(s), belt take-up
electrical controls, and gear reducing unit for each belt drive and to
conduct a functional test to ensure proper operation during the
installation of each new system and during subsequent repair or
replacement of any critical part; and to submit to the District Manager
proposed revisions to their Part 48 training plan that would specify
initial and refresher training for compliance to this petition
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Crandall
Canyon Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-141-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 2700.
Petitioner: M & M Anthracite Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1400.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a slope
conveyance (gunboat) in transporting persons without installing safety
catches or other no less effective devices but instead use increased
rope strength/safety factor and secondary safety rope connection in
place of such devices considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the Little Tracey Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-142-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 2700.
Petitioner: Elk Run Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503(18.41(f)).
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use permanently
installed, spring-loaded locking devices on mobile battery-powered
machines to prevent unintentional loosening of battery plugs from
battery receptacles in order to eliminate the hazards associated with
difficult removal of padlocks during emergency situations, instead of
using padlocks considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for
the Black Knight II Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-149-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 5972.
Petitioner: Canfield Energy, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.342.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use hand-held
continuous-duty methane and oxygen indicators in lieu of machine-
mounted methane monitors on permissible three-wheel tractors with drag
bottom buckets considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for
the Canfield No. 4 Mine with conditions for the Mescher permissible
three-wheel battery-powered tractors used to load coal.
Docket No.: M-97-150-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 5972.
Petitioner: Chestnut Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use cross-sections
instead of contour lines through the intake slope, at locations of rock
tunnel connections between veins, and at 1,000-foot intervals of
advance from the intake slope, and to limit the required mapping of the
mine workings above and below to those present within 100 feet of the
veins being mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins
beyond the 100-foot limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the No. 10 Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-151-C.
FR Notice: 63 FR 5972.
Petitioner: Peabody Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.503.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a spring-loaded
metal locking device for securing the battery-connecting plugs to
machine-mounted battery receptacles on permissible, mobile, battery-
powered scoop cars and tractors instead of using padlocks considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Camp No. 1 Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-044-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 33141.
Petitioner: Consolidation Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to establish two check
points, on inby and outby the affected area; to maintain these check
points in a safe condition at all times; and to have a certified person
test for methane and the quantity of air on a weekly basis at both
check points and the person making such examinations would record the
results with their initials and date in a record book kept on the
surface and made accessible to interested parties considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Loveridge No. 22 Mine with
conditions for the ``unsafe to travel'' 60-foot segment of the
designated return aircourse which has ventilated the battery charging
station (old inside shop) near Sugar Run Shaft.
Docket No.: M-96-081-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 47193.
Petitioner: Kiah Creek Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to evaluate the area at
the toe of the fall to determine the quantity and quality of air
flowing across the fall and by the seals considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the No. 8 Mine with conditions to allow
monitoring of air flowing over the roof fall in front of the old
Southeast Main Nos. 2 & 3 mine seals and indirect evaluation in lieu of
physical examination and gas checks at those seals.
Docket No.: M-96-086-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 47193.
Petitioner: Utah Fuel Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.344.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use audible and
visual alarms to be located at the surface office building where
assigned persons can respond to the alarms instead of at unmanned
locations underground considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the Skyline No. 3 Mine and Skyline No. 1 with conditions for the
preshift examination of remote electrical installations and compressors
serving mine de-watering pump installations conducted by pumpers who
are certified mine examiners.
Docket No.: M-96-087-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 47193.
Petitioner: Utah Fuel Company.
[[Page 27307]]
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.340.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use audible and
visual alarms to be located at the surface office building where
assigned persons can respond to the alarms instead of at unmanned
locations underground considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for the Skyline No. 1 Mine and Skyline No. 3 with conditions for the
continuous monitoring of electrical installations providing power to
mine de-watering pump installations in remote locations by an MSHA
approved Atmospheric Monitoring System which activates visual and
audible alarms at the system's surface location.
Docket No.: M-96-095-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 47194.
Petitioner: Arch of Illinois.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.362.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use an intrinsically
safe atmospheric monitoring system (AMS), a Trolex Explosive Gas Sensor
Model No. TX3266 or an equivalent AMS, to test for methane before the
equipment is energized, and to continuously detect and test for methane
at 20-minute intervals while the mining equipment is energized in the
working face. This would eliminate personnel exposure to the potential
hazards of the face area during the tests considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Conant Mine with conditions for
application only during the second mining process known as ``winging''
using the Archveyor system.
Docket No.: M-96-096-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 47194.
Petitioner: Arch of Illinois.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.331.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a ``blowing''
auxiliary permissible fan and tubing with the Archveyor System to
ventilate the wing cut face area considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Conant Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-119-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 57460.
Petitioner: Utah Fuel Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.360.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to continuously monitor
electrical installations for carbon monoxide or temperature rather than
conduct preshift examinations and to physically examine these
installations for other hazardous conditions at least weekly; and to
have the miners entering these areas certified and conduct an
examination for themselves or to have a certified person examine the
areas prior to other employees entering these areas considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Skyline Mine No. 1 with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-137-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 64373.
Petitioner: D.J.T. Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine the areas
from the gunboat/slope car with an alternative air quality evaluation
at the section's intake level, and travel and throughly examine these
areas for hazardous conditions once a month considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the D.J.T. Slope Mine with conditions
for 30 CFR 75.364(b)(4), to conduct examinations of the seals located
along the return and bleeder air courses from the ladder on a weekly
basis, not monthly as proposed by petitioner.
Docket No.: M-96-168-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 4331.
Petitioner: Apogee Coal Company (dba Arch of Illinois).
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.901.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow a diesel
powered generator to be operated for supplying power to mobile mining
equipment when such equipment is being moved from one area of the mine
to another without grounding the neutral to a low resistance ground
field and that the mining personnel would be trained in the proper
testing procedures to be used at the mine whenever this practice occurs
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Conant Mine
with conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-174-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 4332.
Petitioner: Mallie Coal Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install two five-
pound or one ten-pound portable chemical fire extinguisher in the
operators deck of each Mescher tractor operated at the mine; to have
the fire extinguisher readily accessible to the operator; and to have
each fire extinguisher inspected daily by the equipment operator prior
to entering the escapeway considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Mine No. 5 with conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-183-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 4333.
Petitioner: Kerr-McGee Coal Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 77.1304.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use petroleum-based
lubrication oil, which would be drained from its Jacobs Ranch Mine
equipment, blended with fuel oil to create an Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil
(ANFO) blasting agent and proposes to submit proposed revisions to its
part 48 training plan, which include initial and refresher training
regarding compliance to its petition considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Jacobs Ranch Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-96-194-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 4334.
Petitioner: Apogee Coal Company (dba Arch of Illinois).
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.333.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow permanent
stoppings to be built and maintained to a point not to exceed 900 feet
from the point of deepest penetration in the conveyor belt entry or to
a distance from the point of deepest penetration in the conveyor belt
entry not to exceed 1\1/2\ time the length of the Archveyor continuous
face haulage system considered acceptable alternative method. Granted
for Conant Mine with conditions for application only to the Archveyor
system (i.e. stageloader, system conveyor, continuous mining machine,
and bolter car if used).
Docket No.: M-96-207-C.
FR Notice: 62 FR 11925.
Petitioner: Brookside Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine the areas
from the gunboat/slope car with an alternative air quality evaluation
at the section's intake level, and travel and throughly examine these
areas for hazardous conditions once a month considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Diamond Vein Slope Mine with
conditions for 30 CFR 75.364(b)(4), to conduct examinations of the
seals located along the return and bleeder air courses from the ladder
on a weekly basis, not monthly as proposed by petitioner.
Docket No.: M-95-078-C.
FR Notice: 60 FR 31499.
Petitioner: R. & D. Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.332.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use air passing
through inaccessible abandoned workings and additional areas by mixing
with air in the intake haulage slope to ventilate the only active
workings section, to ensure air quality by sampling intake air during
preshift and on-shift examinations, and to suspend mine production when
air quality fails to meet specified criteria considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the Buck Mountain Slope Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-115-C.
[[Page 27308]]
FR Notice: 60 FR 46871.
Petitioner: Consolidation Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to establish check
points J and K to monitor the affected area and to have a certified
person examine the area for methane and the quantity of air at both
check points on a weekly basis; and to have the certified person
initial and record the date, time, and results of the weekly
examinations in a book kept on the surface and made available for
inspection by interested persons considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Shoemaker Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-167-C.
FR Notice: 60 FR 64080.
Petitioner: Cyprus Plateau Mining Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use high-voltage
(2,400 or 4,160 volt) cables to power longwall mining equipment
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Willow Creek
Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-183-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306.
Petitioner: Mountain Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use non-permissible
electronic testing or diagnostic equipment within 150 feet of pillar
workings; and to use low-voltage or battery operated non-permissible
equipment such as, but not limited to, laptop computers, oscilloscopes,
vibration analysis machines, and cable fault detectors considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the West Elk Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-184-C.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306.
Petitioner: Mountain Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.500.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use non-permissible
electronic testing or diagnostic equipment in or inby the last open
crosscut; and use low-voltage or battery operated non-permissible
equipment such as, but not limited to, laptop computers, oscilloscopes,
vibration analysis machines, and cable fault detectors considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the West Elk Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-94-135-C.
FR Notice: 59 FR 46269.
Petitioner: K & S Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.332.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use air passing
through inaccessible abandoned workings and additional areas by mixing
with the air in the intake haulage slope to ventilate the only active
working section, to ensure air quality by sampling intake air during
preshift and on-shift examinations, and to suspend mine production when
air quality fails to meet specified criteria considered acceptable
alternative method. Granted for the First Chance Slope Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-93-07-C.
FR Notice: 58 FR 8065.
Petitioner: McElroy Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to establish monitoring
stations at the North Return and the Left Return of 2-North before it
enters the affected aircourses, and continue using monitoring stations
at the 1-South entries of the affected return aircourse daily as
described in petition for modification, docket number M-92-142-C
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Slope No. 1
Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-93-027-C.
FR Notice: 58 FR 13805.
Petitioner: Cyprus Plateau Mining Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.350.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to install a low-level
carbon monoxide detection in all belt entries used as intake aircourses
to ventilate active working places considered acceptable alternative
method. Granted for the Star Point No. 2 Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-93-097-C.
FR Notice: 58 FR 39237.
Petitioner: E & E Fuels.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.364.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine the intake
haulage slope and primary escapeway from the gunboat/slope car with an
alternative air quality evaluation at the section's intake level, and
to travel and thoroughly examine these areas for hazardous conditions
once a month considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the
Orchard Slope Mine with conditions for 30 CFR 75.364(b)(1) regarding
weekly examinations of the seals located along the return and bleeder
air courses from the ladder on a weekly basis, not monthly as proposed
by petitioner.
Docket No.: M-93-116-C.
FR Notice: 58 FR 39239.
Petitioner: Buck Mountain Coal Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.360.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine each seal for
physical damage from the slope gunboat during the preshift examination
after an air quantity reading is taken inby the intake portal and to
test for the quantity and quality of air at the intake air split
locations off the slope in the gangway portion of the working section
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Buck Mountain
Slope Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-002-M.
FR Notice: 62 FR 23800.
Petitioner: Barrick Goldstrike Mines, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.6309.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to allow the use of used
crankcase oil blended with diesel fuel to prepare ammonium nitrate/fuel
oil (ANFO) for blasting considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Barrick Goldstrick Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-004-M.
FR Notice: 62 FR 34312.
Petitioner: Homestake Mining Company.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.6202.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to substitute a flashing
amber light in place of signs on rubber-tired mobile equipment used in
the ramp systems and to have the light readily visible from all
directions, and the flashing amber light would be a natural extension
of the amber light currently used at the Homestake Mine to delineate
explosive storage facilities considered acceptable alternative method.
Granted for the Lead, S.D. Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-97-013-M.
FR Notice: 63 FR 2700.
Petitioner: Tg Soda Ash, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 57.22305.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to operate a
nonpermissible pump in an area of the mine that was previously a
shortwall panel, and to operate approved equipment inby the last open
break or in areas where methane may enter the airstream considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Wyoming Soda Ash Mine
with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-012-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306
Petitioner: Rock of Ages Quarries, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between
[[Page 27309]]
the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock of Ages Light Side
Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-013-M
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306.
Petitioner: Rock of Ages Quarries, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock of Ages
Light Side Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-014-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306.
Petitioner: Rock of Ages Quarries, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock of Ages
Light Side Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-015-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8306.
Petitioner: Rock of Ages Quarries, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock of Ages
Light Side Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-017-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8307.
Petitioner: Swenson Granite Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Swenson Gray
Quarry Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-95-018-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8307.
Petitioner: Swenson Granite Company, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal applies to chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists,
allowing the use of chain drives for such application considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Lower Quarry Mine with
conditions.
Docket No.: M-94-031-M.
FR Notice: 59 FR 29305.
Petitioner: Mitsubishi Cement Corporation.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 57.13020.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to establish blow-off
stations at various places in the plant where employees can clean their
clothes with compressed air; to install tamper-proof airline regulators
at each station to ensure that primary operating air pressure is
consistent; and to post rules for employees to follow when using
compressed air to clean their clothes considered acceptable alternative
method. The compressed air would have an OSHA-approved nozzle with
pressure no greater than 2-6 psi at normal average line pressure.
Granted for the Cushenbury Plant with conditions.
Docket No.: M-94-037-M.
FR Notice: 61 FR 8307.
Petitioner: Rock of Ages Quarries, Inc.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 56.19003.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use chain drives
between the driving mechanism and the gear train of the hoists
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for the Rock of Ages
Light Side Mine with conditions.
Docket No.: M-81-072-M.
FR Notice: 47 FR 8898.
Petitioner: Ziegler Chemical and Mineral Corp.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 57.19-3.
Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a V-belt drive
personnel hoist known as Hoist B-11 at its gilsonite mines considered
acceptable alternative method. Granted for Bonanza Mine with
conditions.
[FR Doc. 99-12550 Filed 5-18-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-43-P