The standard becomes effective on Oct. 3, 2001. Miners have a right to know about the chemical hazards where they work, and operators have a responsibility to know about the chemical hazards at their mines.
Mining can expose workers to a variety of hazardous chemicals.
For example, explosives contain organic nitrates that produce nitrogen oxides and ammonia when detonated. Roof bolting systems used underground contain plastic resins and reactants. Solvents used in equipment maintenance can be both toxic and flammable. Mill reagents can contain hydrogen sulfide, cyanide or other dangerous chemicals. Products taken off mine property need not be labeled, but information must be provided to a customer upon request.