MSHA Issues Program Policy Letter on Workplace Examinations
On November 10, MSHA issued a program policy letter (http://www.msha.gov/REGS/COMPLIAN/PPLS/2010/PPL10-IV-03.asp) clarifying its requirements for mine workplace examinations. The letter states that operators must inspect each working place for safety and health hazards at least once each shift and keep a record of the examination. If conditions present an imminent danger, the operator must withdraw workers from the area until the danger has been eliminated.