# Federal Register #2026-23052

MSHA rule removes outdated underground coal mine electrical-equipment requirements

**Buyer:** U.S. Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
**Posted:** November 12, 2026
**Identifier:** 2026-23052

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) finalized a rule removing outdated electrical-equipment requirements for underground coal seams above the water table.
- **Government agency:** U.S. Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
- **Action:** Removes and reserves 30 CFR 75.501, 75.501-1, 75.501-2, 75.501-3, and 75.502, with conforming amendments to related provisions.
- **Rationale and safety requirements:** MSHA considers all underground coal mines gassy, regardless of their location relative to the water table. The agency says miner protections remain in place under other applicable requirements in 30 CFR Part 75.
- **Procurement scope:** This is a regulatory action, not a request to purchase products or services. No OEMs, vendors, products, quantities, or part numbers are identified.

### Description

MSHA's final rule removes requirements for permissible electric face equipment in coal seams above the water table because all underground coal mines are now considered gassy, regardless of their location relative to the water table. It removes and reserves 30 CFR 75.501, 75.501-1, 75.501-2, 75.501-3, and 75.502, and makes conforming amendments to related provisions. The agency states that protections for miners are not reduced because electric equipment requirements are covered elsewhere in 30 CFR part 75. The rule is effective December 14, 2026.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/11/12/2026-23052/electrical-equipment-for-coal-seams-above-the-water-table)