[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 101 (Thursday, May 23, 1996)]
[Notices]
[Pages 25913-25918]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-12973]



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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(c) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act 
of 1977, the Secretary of Labor may modify 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.
    Summaries of petitions received by the Secretary appear 
periodically in the Federal Register. 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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 14, 1996.
Patricia W. Silvey,
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations and Variances.

Affirmative Decisions on Petitions for Modification

    Docket No.: M-93-024-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 13805.
    Petitioner: Peabody Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 77.900.
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use a magnetic motor 
starter instead of tripping a circuit breaker for ground phase 
protection and undervoltage protection, use a circuit breaker for short 
circuit protection, and use the magnetic motor starter and circuit 
breaker for overload protection for serving portable or mobile phase 
alternating current equipment considered acceptable alternative method. 
Granted Hawthorn Mine with conditions.

    Docket No.: M-93-087-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39236.
    Petitioner: Neumeister Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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 in by the intake portal, 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 and 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine 
with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air haulage 
slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-089-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39236.
    Petitioner: Neumeister Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use nonpermissible 
electric equipment within 150 feet of the pillar line and to suspend 
equipment operation anytime the methane concentration at the equipment 
reaches 0.25 percent, either during operation or a preshift examination 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine 
with conditions for the use of nonpermissible electric drags and 
associated nonpermissible electric components located within 150 feet 
from pillar workings.

    Docket No.: M-93-090-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39236.
    Petitioner: Neumeister Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers to replace existing requirements where rock dust, 
water cars, and other water storage are not practical considered 
acceptable alternative method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine with 
conditions for firefighting equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-091-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39236.
    Petitioner: Neumeister Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-092-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39236.
    Petitioner: Neumeister Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-099-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39237.
    Petitioner: E & E Fuels Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers to replace existing requirements where rock dust, 
water cars, and other water storage are not practical considered 
acceptable alternative method. Granted for Orchard Slope Mine with 
conditions for firefighting equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-100-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39237.
    Petitioner: E & E Fuels Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet

[[Page 25914]]

intervals of advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of 
mine workings above and below to those present within 100 feet of the 
vein being mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins 
beyond the 100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Orchard Slope Mine with conditions for 
the use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the 
mapping of mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of 
the vein being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-101-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39237.
    Petitioner: E & E Fuels Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Orchard Slope Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplements of the mine maps.

    Docket No.: M-93-109-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39238.
    Petitioner: Wenrich Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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 in by the intake portal, to test 
for the quantity and quality of air at the intake air split locations 
off the slop in the gangway portion of the working section, and to 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain 
Slope Mine with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air 
haulage slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-111-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39238.
    Petitioner: Wenrich Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers to replace existing requirements where rock dust, 
water cars, and other water storage are not practical considered 
acceptable alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine 
with conditions for firefighting equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-119-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39239.
    Petitioner: R. and D. Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine with conditions for the 
use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping 
of miner above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-120-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39239.
    Petitioner: R. and D. Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine with 
conditions for annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-124-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39240.
    Petitioner: Kintzel Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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, 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, and to 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Lykens No. 6 Mine 
with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air haulage 
slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-127-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39240.
    Petitioner: Kintzel Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers to replace existing requirements where rock dust, 
water cars, and other water storage are not practical considered 
acceptable alternative method. Granted for Lykens No. 6 Mine with 
conditions for firefighting equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-128-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39240
    Petitioner: Kintzel Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Lykens No. 6 Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-129-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39240.
    Petitioner: Kintzel Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Lykens No. 6 Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-134-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39241.
    Petitioner: M & S Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use nonpermissible 
electric equipment within 150 feet of the pillar line and to suspend 
equipment operation anytime the methane concentration at the equipment 
reaches 0.25 percent, either during operation or a preshift examination 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain 
Slope Mine with conditions for the use of nonpermissible electric drags 
and associated nonpermissible electric components located within 150 
feet from pillar workings.

    Docket No.: M-93-135-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39241.
    Petitioner: M & S Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers to replace existing requirements where rock dust, 
water cars, and other water storage are not practical considered 
acceptable alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine 
with conditions for firefighting equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-136-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39241.
    Petitioner: M & S Coal Company.

[[Page 25915]]

    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine with conditions for the 
use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping 
of mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-138-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39241.
    Petitioner: Jeff Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use nonpermissible 
electric equipment within 150 feet of the pillar line and to suspend 
equipment operation anytime the methane concentration at the equipment 
reaches 0.25 percent, either during operation or a preshift examination 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Tracy Vein Slope 
Mine with conditions for use of nonpermissible battery-powered 
locomotives located within 150 feet from pillar workings.

    Docket No.: M-93-139-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39241.
    Petitioner: Jeff Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Tracy Vein Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-140-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39242.
    Petitioner: Jeff Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Tracy Vein Slope Mine with conditions for the use 
of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of 
mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-141-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39242.
    Petitioner: Jeff Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Tracy Vein Slope Mine with conditions 
for annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-155-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39570.
    Petitioner: Little Rock Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for No. 1 Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-156-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 39570.
    Petitioner: Little Rock Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for No. 1 Slope Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplement of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-163-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41295.
    Petitioner: Nowacki Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Nowacki Coal Company Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting 
equipment in the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-164-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41295.
    Petitioner: Nowacki Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Nowacki Coal Company Slope Mine with conditions for 
the use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the 
mapping of mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of 
the vein being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-165-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41295.
    Petitioner: Nowacki Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for Nowacki Coal Company Slope Mine with 
conditions for annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.
    Docket No.: M-93-169-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41295.
    Petitioner: Tito Coal.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
White Vein Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-170-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41296.
    Petitioner: Tito Coal.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being

[[Page 25916]]

mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for White Vein Slope Mine with conditions for the use 
of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of 
mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-171-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41296.
    Petitioner: Tito Coal.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for White Vein Slope Mine with conditions 
for annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-176-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41296.
    Petitioner: Little Buck Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
No. 2 Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-177-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41296.
    Petitioner: Little Buck Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-178-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41296.
    Petitioner: Little Buck Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative method. Granted for No. 2 Slope Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-184-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41297.
    Petitioner: Primrose Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1.
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use nonpermissible 
electric equipment within 150 feet of the pillar line and to suspend 
equipment operation anytime the methane concentration at the equipment 
reaches 0.25 percent, either during operation or a preshift examination 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Primrose Slope 
Mine with conditions for use of nonpermissible battery-powered 
locomotives located within 150 feet from pillar workings.

    Docket No.: M-93-185-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41297.
    Petitioner: Primrose Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Primrose Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-186-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41297.
    Petitioner: Primrose Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Primrose Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-194-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 41298.
    Petitioner: Brookside Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Four Foot Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-203-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 44700.
    Petitioner: Sunset Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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, 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, and to 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Orchard Slope 
Mine with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air 
haulage slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-205-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 44700.
    Petitioner: Sunset Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Orchard Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-206-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 44701.
    Petitioner: Sunset Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Orchard Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-218-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46219.
    Petitioner: Rhen Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to examine each seal for 
physical damage from the slope gunboat

[[Page 25917]]

during the preshift examination after an air quantity reading is taken 
inby the intake portal, 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, and to physically examine the entire length of the 
slope once a month considered acceptable alternative method. Granted 
for Skidmore Slope Mine with conditions for examinations of seals in 
the intake air haulage slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-220-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46219.
    Petitioner: Rhen Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Skidmore Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-221-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46219.
    Petitioner: Rhen Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Skidmore Slope Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-232-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46221.
    Petitioner: S & M Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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, 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, and to 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for Buck Mountain 
Slope Mine with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air 
haulage slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-234-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46221.
    Petitioner: S & M Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
Buck Mountain Slope Mine with conditions for firefighting equipment in 
the working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-235-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46221.
    Petitioner: S & M Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine with conditions for the 
use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping 
of mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-236-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 46221.
    Petitioner: S & M Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative. Granted for Buck Mountain Slope Mine with conditions for 
annual revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-263-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 57626.
    Petitioner: B & B Anthracite Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Rock Ridge Slope Mine with conditions for the use 
of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of 
mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-264-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 57626.
    Petitioner: B & B Anthracite Coal Company.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for Rock Ridge No. 1 Slope Mine with conditions for the 
use of cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping 
of mines above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein 
being mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-285-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 57626.
    Petitioner: International Anthracite Corp.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative. Granted for B & M Tunnel Mine with conditions for annual 
revisions and supplements of the mine map.

    Docket No.: M-93-289-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 58567.
    Petitioner: R S & W Coal Company, Inc.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.360(b)(5).
    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, 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, and to 
physically examine the entire length of the slope once a month 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for R S & W Drift 
Mine with conditions for examinations of seals in the intake air 
haulage slope of this mine.

    Docket No.: M-93-291-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 58567.

[[Page 25918]]

    Petitioner: R S & W Coal Company, Inc.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1002-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use nonpermissible 
electric equipment within 150 feet of the pillar line and to suspend 
equipment operation anytime the methane concentration at the equipment 
reaches 0.25 percent, either during operation or a preshift examination 
considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for R S & W Drift 
Mine with conditions for use of nonpermissible battery-powered 
locomotives located within 150 feet from pillar workings.

    Docket No.: M-93-292-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 58568.
    Petitioner: R S & W Coal Company, Inc.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1100-2(a)(2).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to use only portable 
fire extinguishers where rock dust, water cars, and other water storage 
are not practical considered acceptable alternative method. Granted for 
R S & W Drift Mine with conditions for fire-fighting equipment in the 
working section.

    Docket No.: M-93-293-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 58568.
    Petitioner: R S & W Coal Company, Inc.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1200 (d), (h), and (i).
    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 feet intervals of 
advance from the intake slope and to limit the mapping of mine workings 
above and below to those present within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined except when veins are interconnected to other veins beyond the 
100 feet limit through rock tunnels considered acceptable alternative 
method. Granted for R S & W Drift Mine with conditions for the use of 
cross-sections, in lieu of contour lines, limiting the mapping of mines 
above or below this mine to those within 100 feet of the vein being 
mined.

    Docket No.: M-93-294-C.
    FR Notice: 58 FR 58568.
    Petitioner: R S & W Coal Company, Inc.
    Reg Affected: 30 CFR 75.1202-1(a).
    Summary of Findings: Petitioner's proposal to revise and supplement 
mine maps on an annual basis instead of the required 6 month interval 
and to update maps daily by hand notations considered acceptable 
alternative. Granted for R S & W Drift Mine with conditions for annual 
revisions and supplements of the mine map.

[FR Doc. 96-12973 Filed 5-22-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-43-P