With the administrative rulemaking process complete, the MSHA respirable crystalline silica standard takes effect on June 17, 2024. Mining operators must conduct a qualitative assessment on changes that would affect exposure eighteen: • Coal mines are required to meet the new MSHA respirable crystalline silica standard on April 15, 2025. • Metal and nonmetal mines are required to meet the MSHA respirable crystalline silica standard on April 8, 2026. The new rule does not allow the use of respiratory protection for compliance, a key difference from OSHA’s silica rule. Mining operators must collect a baseline test for miners’ exposure before the effective date, conduct a three-month follow-up and implement periodic testing thereafter. Sources: Respirable Crystalline Silica | Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) MSHA Releases Final Rule on Respirable Crystalline Silica - Ogletree As the compliance deadline nears, competition for engineering services to help facilities meet the new MSHA standards is expected to be fierce. Now is the ideal time to begin analysis and mitigation.