Federal officials say almost every mine sample taken since
August would meet tougher limits on coal dust.
A U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration
news release Monday said 99 percent of about 7,500 samples were below the new
standard.
Initial requirements of the coal dust
rule became effective Aug. 1. The federal rule proposed in 2010 aims to reduce
black lung disease.
New requirements include increased dust
sampling in mines and citations when coal operators don't take immediate action
for high levels.
In February 2016, better monitoring equipment
will be required. In August 2016, the allowable concentration of coal dust will
drop. Officials will be able to cite violations based on single samples,
instead of average levels.
Federal officials said mines met the
new standard despite voicing concerns they couldn't.
