CHARLESTON, W.Va. Strengthening Coal Mine Seals

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.wvva.com/News/index.php?ID=16817

Strengthening Coal Mine Seals
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- Underground coal mines must strengthen or replace seals made of cement foam block like those that failed in the Sago Mine disaster.

Mines that can't beef up seals or replace them safely must monitor sealed areas for explosive gases daily and make sure it remains non-explosive.

The changes are mandated by new regulations approved by a state panel today.

Both requirements go beyond federal rules adopted by the Mine Safety and Health Administration last May. MSHA's emergency sealing rule does not address repairing or replacing existing foam seals, only new ones.

Like that MSHA rule, however, the state would require rebuilt or replacement seals to withstand explosions generating 50 pounds per square inch of pressure.

State Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training Director Ron Wooten said he expects to direct mines to submit renovation plans soon.