By: Ed Stuber
If you operate any mine – metal, non-metal or coal mine, or quarries, gravel and aggregate pits, you’re likely aware of the Mine Health and Safety Administration’s (MSHA) new Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) standard that took effect on June 17, 2024. With these new regulations in place, ensuring your operation’s compliance can seem daunting. However, we’re here to help simplify the process and guide you through the years ahead with our expertise and comprehensive and cost-effective MSHA compliance kit.
Understanding the New RCS Standard
The new MSHA rule mandates that operators conduct silica surveys as required by 30 CFR 56.5002. These surveys are crucial to demonstrate compliance with the directive. Coal mine operators have until April 14, 2025, to fully comply with the new requirements, while Metal and Non-Metal (MNM) mine operators have until April 8, 2026.
The key changes under the new rule include lowering the permissible exposure level (PEL) for respirable crystalline silica to 50 µg/m³ for a full 8-hour shift. Additionally, an action level of 25 µg/m³, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA), has been established. These stringent requirements necessitate accurate and reliable sampling and analysis to ensure compliance.
The MSHA Compliance Kit from SGS
To aid in this transition, SGS offers an all-inclusive MSHA compliance kit designed to meet all your sampling needs efficiently. Our kit includes:
- Personal Sampling Pumps: Reliable and easy-to-use pumps for collecting air samples.
- Media: High-quality sampling media for accurate analysis.
- PPIs or Cyclones: Choose between Parallel Particle Impactors (PPIs) and traditional cyclones.
- Calibration Units: Ensure your equipment is always accurately calibrated.
Benefits of Our MSHA Compliance Kit
Our kit is designed not only to help you comply with MSHA regulations but also to streamline your sampling process:
- Comprehensive Solution: Everything you need is included in one convenient package.
- Quick Turnaround: Standard results turnaround time is just 5 business days.
- Online Access: View your results anytime via our secure web portal.
- Expert Support: Access to our experienced technical staff, including Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH) and dedicated project managers.
The new MSHA RCS rule allows the use of PPIs, which offer several advantages over traditional cyclones. PPIs are incredibly easy to set up, saving you valuable time and effort. Their one-time use design eliminates the risk of contamination between samples, ensuring more accurate results. Additionally, the self-contained filters mean there’s no need to handle sample filters in the field, reducing the potential for errors. Another significant benefit is the flexibility PPIs offer; they do not require directional orientation, allowing employees to move freely while completing their work assignments.
Get Started with SGS Today
Navigating the new MSHA RCS requirements doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’re committed to providing you with the tools and support needed to achieve compliance efficiently and effectively. For more information on our MSHA compliance kit or to get started, contact us at 888-432-5227 or use our IHLive Chat feature available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM EST.
Looking for even more insight? Don’t miss our exclusive IH Webinar, “Navigating the New MSHA Rule: Solutions for Compliance” on August 8, 2024! Register Here.