Federal Register #MSHA-2026-0694

Stillwater Mine Petition to Use Sealed Bottled Water in Refuge Chambers Instead of Waterlines

This notice summarizes a petition for modification of mine safety standards at the Stillwater Mine in Montana: - Government Buyer: - Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Department of Labor - Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances - OEMs and Vendors Mentioned: - Kenwood (for portable radios) - Locally fabricated steel refuge units (no specific OEM named) - Products/Services Referenced (not procured): - Kenwood Model NX3200 portable radios and KNB79LC battery packs (for miner training) - Sealed bottled water containers (four 5-gallon containers per refuge chamber, two chambers, supporting up to 8 persons for 96 hours) - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Petition requests use of sealed bottled water in refuge chambers instead of waterlines, aiming to improve safety by eliminating risks from re-energizing electrical systems and restoring water pumps - Refuge chambers are equipped to support up to 8 people for 96 hours - Training requirements for use of Kenwood radios are outlined, but no procurement is requested - No procurement of products or services is being solicited in this notice; it is a regulatory modification request only

Description

This notice summarizes a petition for modification submitted to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) by Stillwater Mining Company. The petition requests a modification of 30 CFR 57.11052(d) to allow the use of sealed bottled water instead of waterlines for supplying potable water in two refuge chambers at the Stillwater Mine in Montana. The petitioner argues that this alternative method will provide no less protection than the existing standard and will reduce risks associated with re-energizing electrical infrastructure and restoring mine water pumping systems. Comments on the petition must be received by July 31, 2026.

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