What self-contained self-rescue device must an underground coal mine operator provide to miners, and how long must it protect them under 30 CFR 75.1714? Answer in under 100 words.

How it works

Provision of devices. Each underground coal mine operator shall make available an approved self-rescue device — defined as an MSHA-approved self-contained self-rescue device (SCSR) — to every miner who goes underground.

Training prerequisite. Before any person authorized by the mine operator goes underground, the operator must instruct and train that person in accordance with the training provisions set forth in Title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 48 (training and retraining of miners and other persons at mining operations).

Regulatory history. The rule was established on November 21, 1978 (43 FR 54246) and subsequently amended on March 30, 1988 (53 FR 10336), June 8, 1995 (60 FR 30401), and December 8, 2006 (71 FR 71454).

Key requirements at a glance

Exceptions & edge cases

• Visitors are included: Non-miner individuals who are authorized by the mine operator to enter the underground areas of the mine must also be provided an approved SCSR protecting for at least one hour.

• 'At least one hour or longer': Devices providing protection beyond 60 minutes satisfy the standard; anything less does not.

• No underground entry without training: No person authorized by the mine operator may go underground until instruction and training per 30 CFR Part 48 has been completed.