Section 103(h) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act), 30 U.S.C. 813, authorizes MSHA to collect information necessary to carry out its duty in protecting the safety and health of miners.
Title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations (30 CFR) § 57.11053 requires the development of an escape and evacuation plan specifically addressing the unique conditions of each underground metal and nonmetal mine. Section 57.11053 also requires that revisions be made as mining progresses. The plan must be available to representatives of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and conspicuously posted at locations convenient to all persons on the surface and underground. The mine operator and MSHA are required to jointly review the plan at least once every six months.
The burden decrease was due to fewer respondents (251 previous to 231 current). The number of responses also decreased (from 502 to 462) and the burden hours reflect the decrease (4,267 to 3,927). Burden costs also decreased from $2,510 to $2,310 also due to a decrease in active underground metal and nonmetal mines.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.