House Passes Miner Safety Bill

It’s a law that is sorely needed–as recent events have tragically proven. House Passes Miner Safety BillBy Cliff Montgomery – Nov. 4th, 2007The House of Representatives on Oct. 29th passed the Mine Communications Technology Innovation Act of 2007, a bill intended to better protect America’s miners.It’s a law that is sorely needed–as recent events have tragically proven.And it’s apparently a very popular piece of legislation. The bill was only introduced into the House on Oct. 17th; twelve days later it had been fully amended by the House Committee on Science and Technology. It then was immediately put onto the floor for a voice vote after a suspension of House rules, and quickly passed.Currently it is being considered by the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.Below we offer an extension of remarks from one of the bill’s sponsors, Representative Mark Udall (D-CO), who offers a clear explanation for why this bill should be law:“Madam Speaker, as a co-sponsor, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3877, the Mine Communications Technology Innovation Act, which was introduced by our colleague from Utah, Mr. [Jim] Matheson [D-UT].”Mining is an important part of our history, and it will be critical to our future as well; but we have seen too many mining accidents that have ended in tragedy. Too often, these tragedies have been related to difficulties with communication. The unfortunate deaths of six miners and three rescuers at the Crandall Canyon Mine this year has highlighted the severe communication challenges that miners face when deep underground.”While mines generally use reliable communications systems, some mines–specifically, deep underground mines–present a number of unique challenges that make communications and tracking more difficult.”For example, the open air pathway required for radio signals and WiFi often do not exist in underground mines–and less than ten percent of the radio spectrum that is used above ground can be used underground.”Additionally, in the event of a catastrophic event, existing communications systems are often compromised.”This bill would help improve tracking and communications systems for two-way communication between the miners and people above ground. Specifically, H.R. 3877 would accelerate the research and development of innovative mine tracking and communications technologies.”Since the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) addresses oversight of immediately available technologies, this legislation is targeted R&D for new technologies…[which will] advance our ability to communicate underground.”Under this legislation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) would establish an initiative…[which will] promote the research, development, and demonstration of miner tracking and communications systems, …[as well as] promote the establishment of standards and other measurement services regarding underground miners.”Not only will this legislation help miners, but it will draw upon the expertise of Colorado researchers. NIST’s Boulder labs have already begun similar work for communications in collapsed buildings, and are well positioned to support this new effort with its experience in developing technical standards, best practices and conformance testing.”This bill will ensure that our miners have the state-of-the-art equipment they need to communicate with people above ground, especially in times of emergency.”I urge the House to support this important legislation that will help us save lives in the future.”Like what you’re reading so far? Then why not order a full year (52 issues) of thee-newsletter for only $15? A major article covering an story not being told in the Corporate Press will be delivered to your email every Monday morning for a full year, for less than 30 cents an issue. Order Now!