SB2813 Summary

• Amends the Coal Mining Act to replace references to "permissible flame safety lamps" with "multi-gas detectors" throughout mine examination and safety procedures.

• Defines a new "Recorder" position as a person with mine manager or mine examiner certification designated to record examination results, allowing mine examiners to call results to a surface recorder instead of personally recording them.

• Reduces the required examination time from 4 hours to 3 hours before workers enter underground areas in mines.

• Adds detailed requirements for mines with minimum 120 psi seals, including weekly seal examinations and full mine examinations every 7 consecutive days if not previously examined.

• Authorizes text messaging as an approved 2-way communication system in mines, subject to Department approval, with pre-programmed messages for miner status and emergency response information.