OMSL recently observed testing of the CSE SR-100 self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs). Testing highlighted concerns regarding the handling of these devices and training with respect to the care of these devices. Please read the
SCSR Emergency Awareness Bulletin for this critical information.
The Office of Mine Safety and Licensing has filed emergency regulations with the Legislative Research Commission. The regulations are effective immediately and correspond with the passage of Senate Bill 200 and House Bill 572.
- Emergency regulations under 805 KAR 8060E establish provisions for the assessment and imposition of civil penalties against licensed facilities.
Emergency regulations under 825 KAR 1020E provide for the filing of a petition of appeal with the Mine Safety Review Commission by individuals or licensees who are aggrieved by a regulatory determination.
The press release announcing the emergency regulations can be found at http://governor.ky.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/20060710minesafety.htm
KRS 351.170 (2) requires each licensed facility to report to the executive director by the close of the business next day any certified individual who:
- has been discharged for violation of the company's substance or alcohol abuse policies
- refused to submit to a test required by the company’s substance or alcohol abuse policies or KRS 351.182, 351.183, 351.184, 351.185, and 352.180
- tested positive and failed to complete an employee assistance program
Please use the Reporting Form for Violation of Drug and Alcohol Free Status to satisfy this statutory requirement.
To assist in this reporting requirement, see Frequently Asked Questions for Reporting Drug\Alcohol Free Status Violations.
The Department for Natural Resources (DNR) has issued DNR Order No. 06-001 with regard to the inspection and certification of mine seals.
Please note the increased inspection requirements associated with alternative mine seals is for a duration of seven days, while the certification requirements for all mine seals is henceforth.
The Department for Natural Resources has established a toll free telephone number, which will be manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week to facilitate the reporting of a mine emergency. Governor Ernie Fletcher announced the number in a press release on June 12, 2006.
On Monday, January 30, 2006, I was asked to fill the position of Interim Executive Director. I am honored to accept this challenge until an Executive Director is named. Like most of my predecessors, I quickly became aware of the level of competence and professionalism with the OMSL staff, both at the main office in Frankfort and in the field offices within the six districts. Thank all of you so much for your help these past weeks.
The recent weeks have been both interesting and enjoyable. I have enjoyed talking to my friends from industry and look forward to working with you again while I am here. Many of these people whom I consider my friends, both labor and union, I met during the 18 years that I have worked in the industry. Some of them I met during the 15 years that I have been with OMSL.
As always, let’s all work together to ensure the agency moves forward in its quest for the year when all of Kentucky’s coal miners return home safely each day.
Sincerely,
Johnny Greene
Interim Executive Director
