Federal rule to protect coal, metal and nonmetal miners’ health delayed indefinitely

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The implementation of a federal rule aimed at protecting mine workers’ health was delayed indefinitely, according to the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

MSHA had established the “2024 Silica Rule,” which made conforming amendments to current mining standards regarding respirable crystalline silica and respiratory protection.

Crystalline silica is a common mineral that can be found in various materials, including stone, mortar and concrete, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

OSHA also said workers who inhale the mineral are at increased risk of lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, silicosis and kidney disease.

The 2024 Silica Rule lowered the permissible exposure limit for the mineral at coal and metal and nonmetal mines, MSHA said.

Following the publication of the rule, MSHA said industry groups filed petitions in federal appeals court, leading the court to issue a stay for the 2024 Silica Rule compliance deadlines.

MSHA said it will continue to enforce existing standards, but delay the enforcement of the conforming amendments until the court-ordered stay is terminated and there is a resolution on how to move forward.