Communications and Tracking for Underground Mines
MSHA continues to review emergency communications and tracking systems that represent the most promising technologies for application in underground mines. Both MSHA-approved Technologies and those under development will be evaluated. Information on these systems will be provided as it is gathered. MSHA has begun to receive a significant number of approval requests for a new generation of communications and tracking technology. Resources have been gradually shifted from exploring the availability of new technologies to focusing on evaluation and testing activities for issuance of MSHA approval.
In response to the Sago Mine disaster, to date MSHA has received numerous proposals from manufacturers and distributors of emergency communication and tracking systems. Additional proposals continue to be received. Our Technical Support Directorate is reviewing these products and proposals and assisting interested manufacturers in obtaining MSHA approval. We have also been working with the NIOSH Communication and Tracking Partnership to assist interested parties in arranging field tests of their systems to facilitate development. MSHA wishes to thank NIOSH for their efforts in further development of these important technologies.
Manufacturers need to obtain the appropriate MSHA approvals for the systems to be used in the gassy areas of underground mines. We encourage all manufacturers of communication and tracking technologies to contact us.
Interested parties should contact David Chirdon at chirdon.david@dol.gov
As of May 28, 2008, MSHA is processing 48 approval applications for communications and tracking technology. Since the beginning of 2006, we have issued 45 new or revised approvals for communications and tracking products. We have observed 49 tests or demonstrations of 29 different communications and/or tracking systems at various mine sites. We have met with representatives from 62 communications and tracking system companies. To date, we have had discussions with various vendors regarding 168 different proposals for development of mine communications and tracking systems. We recently initiated a program to evaluate new technology communication and tracking system performance after MSHA approval and system deployment.
MSHA-approved Technologies
Public Meeting Held on Communications and Tracking Technologies
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Request for Information - Underground Communications and Tracking of Underground Miners.
Program Policy Letter
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P08-V-2 - Approval of Communication and Tracking Devices Required by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 (MINER Act)
Underground Communications and Tracking System Tests at
CONSOL Energy, Inc., McElroy Mine
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