West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 46 - Coal Mine Health And Safety
West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) – Agency 46: Coal Mine Health and Safety
Overview:
Agency 46 of the West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) contains the rules and regulations governing coal mine health and safety in the state, as promulgated by the Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training (MHST). These rules implement and enforce provisions of Chapter 22A of the West Virginia Code, which pertains to mining safety, training, accident reporting, and equipment standards.
The goal is to promote the safety, health, and training of individuals working in underground and surface coal mines throughout West Virginia.
Key Rules Typically Found in Agency 46:
Note: Rule numbers and contents may vary slightly over time. Here are the commonly included chapters and topics:
🔹 46 CSR 1 – Rules and Regulations Governing the Safety of Those Employed in and Around Underground Coal Mines
Covers general safety requirements
Explosives handling
Roof control and ventilation
Fire protection and emergency preparedness
Electrical equipment and power circuits
Reporting of accidents and violations
🔹 46 CSR 3 – Rules and Regulations Governing the Submission and Approval of Roof Control Plans
Required roof control plans for underground mines
Approval procedures and plan amendments
Minimum support standards
🔹 46 CSR 4 – Rules and Regulations Governing Surface Coal Mines and Facilities
Safety requirements for surface mining operations
Operation and maintenance of machinery
Haul roads, blasting, and highwall safety
Training and supervision standards
🔹 46 CSR 6 – Rules Governing the Use of Diesel-Powered Equipment in Underground Coal Mines
Permissibility of diesel equipment
Ventilation and fire suppression requirements
Fuel handling and engine emissions standards
🔹 46 CSR 7 – Substance Abuse Screening Policy and Procedures
Mandated drug and alcohol testing for miners
Pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing
Requirements for approved labs and medical review officers
🔹 46 CSR 8 – Certification and Recertification of Underground and Surface Miners
Certification exams for various mining roles:
Underground miners
Surface miners
Electricians
Foremen
Continuing education and recertification intervals
🔹 46 CSR 9 – Rules Governing the Installation, Use, and Maintenance of Conveyor Belts
Belt haulage safety standards
Fire protection systems
Belt alignment and maintenance
Administering Agency:
The rules are enforced by the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, which:
Conducts inspections and investigations
Oversees miner training and certification
Issues citations and orders
Responds to mining accidents and hazards
Legal Authority:
These rules are authorized by W. Va. Code §22A, including:
§22A-1 – General provisions
§22A-2 – Underground mining
§22A-3 – Surface mining
§22A-6 – Enforcement and penalties
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