MSHA reopens comment period for proposed respirator rule

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has reopened the comment period through December 8 for its proposed respirator rule, which was originally published in the Federal Register on July 1, 2025. The rule would permit the use of nonpermissible powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) in gassy areas of underground mines.

MSHA states that because no permissible PAPRs are currently commercially available in the U.S., underground mine operators must obtain agency approval for their use by filing a petition for modification under 30 CFR Part 44. Since 2021, MSHA has received more than 150 petitions.

The proposed rule would establish technical specifications and working conditions for PAPR use, allowing mine operators to use them in specified underground areas without filing a petition for approval.

MSHA will hold a virtual public hearing on the proposed rule at 9 a.m. on November 17.