The Mine Safety and Health Administration has proposed halving the permissible level of Silica Exposure to 50 micrograms per cubic meter, a change that could save thousands of lives. Silica dust is toxic and can cause black lung disease in miners. Advocates for the stricter guideline are celebrating the proposed change but are also concerned about potential loopholes that the industry could exploit. They are calling for more funding for inspectors and stricter sampling oversight. The proposed rule will require routine medical testing of all mineworkers and companies to find ways of limiting silica exposure.

The post A rule that could help save coal miners’ lives finally Moves Forward appeared first on Balanced News Summary.