{"abstract":"This proposed rule supercedes the proposed rule published by MSHA on July 7, 2000. Under this proposed rule mine operators would be required to verify and periodically monitor, through sampling, the effectiveness of the dust control parameters for each mechanized mining unit (MMU) specified in the mine ventilation plan. For samples to be valid, the operator would be required to sample on a production shift during which the amount of material produced by a MMU is at or above the verification production level using only the dust control parameters listed in the ventilation plan. The use of approved powered, air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) and/or verifiable administrative controls would be allowed as a supplemental means of compliance when MSHA determines that all feasible engineering or environmental controls are being used. MSHA is also proposing to rescind operator compliance sampling in underground coal mines. The use of a personal, continuous dust monitor (PCDM), once developed and approved, could be used by an operator in conjunction with the dust control parameters specified in the mine ventilation plan. The proposed rule would significantly improve miners health protection by limiting the exposure of individual miners to respirable coal mine dust.","action":"Proposed rule; notice of public hearings; close of record.","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF LABOR","name":"Labor Department","id":271,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/labor-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/271","parent_id":null,"slug":"labor-department"},{"raw_name":"Mine Safety and Health Administration","name":"Mine Safety and Health Administration","id":288,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/mine-safety-and-health-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/288","parent_id":271,"slug":"mine-safety-and-health-administration"}],"body_html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/full_text/html/2003/03/06/03-3941.html","cfr_references":[{"chapter":null,"citation_url":null,"part":70,"title":30},{"chapter":null,"citation_url":null,"part":75,"title":30},{"chapter":null,"citation_url":null,"part":90,"title":30}],"citation":"68 FR 10784","comment_url":null,"comments_close_on":"2003-06-04","correction_of":null,"corrections":[],"dates":"Comments on the proposed rule should be submitted on or before June 4, 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