Friday, May 19, 2006

Diesel and dust

Well, we knew this was coming. MSHA has issued a final rule strengthening protections for miners exposed to diesel particulate matter (DPM) from diesel exhaust in underground metal and nonmetal mines. "Diesel Particulate Matter Exposure of Underground Metal and Nonmetal Miners" will be published in the Federal Register on May 18th. "Exposure to DPM is a significant public health concern, and underground miners are exposed to higher concentrations of DPM than any other occupational group," said David G. Dye, acting administrator for MSHA. "This final rule ensures enhanced protection for miners from the effects of diesel particulate matter." Your comment?