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The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has introduced new regulations to protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica, a hazardous substance linked to severe health conditions like silicosis and lung cancer. These updated standards lower permissible exposure limits (PEL) and enforce stricter monitoring and reporting requirements, ensuring a safer work environment across mining operations.
With compliance deadlines approaching, businesses must act swiftly to implement these measures, safeguard their workforce, and avoid potential penalties. At RJ Lee Group, we offer expert testing and consulting services to help ensure your operations remain compliant.
Below is a list of the most frequently asked questions asked of RJ Lee Group Scientists regarding the new MSHA regulation:
MSHA CFR Part 60 F.A.Q.
Q: When do I need to begin testing to comply with MSHA R30 CFR Part 6?
A: The Mine Safety and Health Administration's (MSHA) final rule on respirable crystalline silica became effective on June 17, 2024. Coal mine operators must comply with the new standards by April 14, 2025, and metal and nonmetal (MNM) mine operators must comply by April 8, 2026.
Q: Does RJ Lee Group offer analysis and reporting on respirable silica?
A: Yes, we are fully equipped and prepared to provide analyses of respirable crystalline silica air samples obtained using size-selective samplers that conform to the ISO 7708:1995 standard.
Q: Is RJ Lee Group accredited per the MSHA requirements?
A: Yes. Our laboratory is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory (AIHA LAP ID #100364) to analyze respirable crystalline silica in air samples using XRD and IR methods.
Q: How does RJ Lee Group test air samples for respirable silica?
A: We test samples using either XRD (X-ray diffraction) or FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy). We recommend XRD for its higher throughput, faster turnaround times, and because it can detect all 3 polymorphs (quartz, cristobalite, and tridymite) while FTIR only detects α-quartz.
XRD Instruments used for sample analysis
Q: What is the difference between the two methods?
A: FTIR (NIOSH 7603) measures a sample's absorption of infrared light, identifying molecular bonds within crystalline silica (quartz). XRD (NIOSH 7500) uses X-rays to detect crystalline structures by analyzing their unique diffraction patterns.
Q: Are both methods compliant with MSHA Regulations?
A: Yes, either method is acceptable by MSHA and will be in compliance with regulations.
Q: How will my results be reported?
A: Results are typically reported by mass, reported in micrograms (µg) or milligrams (mg), or by air concentration, reported in mass per cubic meter (µg/m3 or mg/m3). Be sure to discuss your needs with us.
Q: Can I get sampling media from RJ Lee Group?
A: Yes, RJ Lee Group offers two options for collecting samples.
- 2pc or 3pc Cassettes: Pre-weighed and ready for sampling; the cost of the cassettes and ground shipping are included in the analysis cost when you work with RJ Lee Group. Expedited shipping is available for a fee and is charged for cassettes not analyzed by RJ Lee Group.
- Parallel Particle Impactor (PPI): Convenient, pre-weighed, and ready for use, PPI’s do not require a cyclone. Because PPIs are disposable and not re-loadable, there is a purchase fee for this type.
A typical PPI sample cartridge
Q: How do I know if I need a 2-piece or 3-piece cassette for my cyclone?
A: The choice will depend on the size-selective sampler that you are using. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended instructions for calibration and use.
Q: What kind of pump will I need?
A: Any personal pump that samples 2 liters per minute (LPM) during a work shift is acceptable, except in underground coal mines.
Q: What kind of pump do I need for an underground coal mine?
A: An ELF (Enhanced Low Flow) pump is almost always required to monitor respirable crystalline silica in underground coal mines.
Q: Do I have to include Field Blanks along with my samples?
A: We recommend including 1 field blank per sampling set or 1 field blank per 10% of the samples submitted. Field blanks are important for sample integrity and quality control, and they are analyzed and reported on just like any other sample.
Q: How do I pay for sample analysis?
A: RJ Lee Group requires a valid Purchase Order (PO) for all sampling media requests and will issue an invoice for applicable products and services. Payment may be completed via credit card through our secure payment portal, check, or ACH wire transfer. Please note that sampling media is non-returnable and will be billed upon order unless included in the analysis cost.
Q: Where do I send my samples?
A: All samples to be tested per MSHA CFR Part 60 are shipped to our Hochberg Road laboratory. Please include a Chain of Custody (CoC) form with your shipment and use our Submit, a Sample notification system for efficient processing.
RJ Lee Group
350 Hochberg Road
Monroeville, PA 15146
RJ Lee Group's Chemistry Testing Lab Facility
Q: Where can I learn more about MSHA CFR Part 60?
A: The Mine Safety and Health Administration has published a resources page to provide additional information for operators and miners here.
You can also find practical advice regarding sampling and testing on the RJ Lee Group blog.
• How to prepare for the new MSHA regulations on air monitoring for silica.
• Silica Sampling Best Practices: Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance
Q: Can I discuss my needs with an expert?
A: Absolutely. RJ Lee Group’s Client Relations Team can walk you through everything you need to know about collecting and submitting samples for analysis, and we have a team of experts to answer questions about environmental health & safety, geology, mineralogy, and more.