A Federal Register notice set for publication Tuesday says the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) wants an extension of data collection on diesel-powered equipment in underground coal mines. Engines powering diesel equipment are potential contributors to fires and explosion hazards in the confined environment of an underground coal mine where combustible coal dust and explosive methane gas are present, MSHA says. "In addition, diesel equipment operating in an underground coal mine can pose serious health risks to miners from exposure to diesel exhaust emissions, including diesel particulates, oxides of nitrogen, and carbon monoxide. Diesel exhaust is a lung carcinogen in animals."
