Recent News & Blogs

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is one of the most significant occupational hazards in mining. With MSHA’s recent final rule lowering permissible exposure limits (PEL) to 50 µg/m³ (8-h TWA) and introducing an action level of 25 µg/m³, mine operators must now adopt more precise monitoring and analytical strategies.

Initially, coal operators were expected to meet MSHA’s new respirable crystalline silica (RCS) standard by April 14, 2025. However, on May 22, 2025, MSHA announced a delay—pushing enforcement back to August 18, 2025 for coal mine sites. This delay applies only to coal; metal and nonmetal mines must adhere to the original April 8, 2026 deadline.