Mining of Pillars
Summary
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is proposing new rules about how mining companies can remove pillars—the columns of rock left behind to support mine roofs. This rule matters because it affects worker safety in mines and could influence how efficiently companies can extract minerals while keeping employees protected from cave-ins and other accidents.
Key Points
- 1MSHA is setting new standards for when and how miners can safely remove support pillars from underground mines
- 2The rule applies to all mining operations that use pillar-and-room mining techniques to extract coal and other minerals
- 3Mining companies must follow updated safety procedures if they want to remove these rock supports
- 4Public comment period runs from July 1, 2025 to August 1, 2025—workers, mining companies, and concerned citizens can submit feedback
- 5The final rule will establish safety requirements designed to prevent mine collapses and protect worker lives
Key Dates
July 1, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
The Digest Network
AI Comment Drafter
Describe your concern and we'll help you draft a substantive comment.
AI-generated draft. Always review and edit before submitting. Replace all [bracketed placeholders] with your specific details. Your comment should reflect your genuine views and experience.