Federal regulations in the USA require mining products destined for use in underground coal and gassy underground mines, be approved or certified to MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) standards or non-MSHA Product Safety Standards; equivalent to the applicable product approval requirements having the same degree of protection.

Under MSHA’s Subchapter B – Testing, Evaluation, and Approval of Mining Products – Part 6, the U.S. Department of Labor has mandated that MSHA accept testing and evaluation by recognised independent laboratories in lieu of MSHA performing their own testing and evaluation. Eurofins E&E North America is an accredited NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) accepted as part of MSHA‘s Part 6 approval of Mining products.

Products required to be evaluated and tested range from small electronic devices to large mining systems.

MSHA approval

MSHA will accept testing and evaluation performed by an independent laboratory for purposes of MSHA product approval provided that they receive:

• Written evidence of the laboratory’s independence and current recognition by a laboratory accrediting organisation
• Complete technical explanation of how the product complies with each requirement in the applicable MSHA product approval requirements
• Identification of components or features of the product that are critical to the safety of the product
• All documentation, including drawings and specifications, as submitted to the independent laboratory by the applicant

Non-MSHA standards

MSHA will accept equivalent non-MSHA product safety standards, assuming they provide the same degree of protection. With modifications, these standards are accepted:

• IEC 60079-0, Fourth Edition, 2004-01
• IEC 60079-1, Fifth Edition, 2003-11

Laboratory capabilities

Our equipment test locations and our experienced test engineers provide you with expert level support throughout.

Extensive resources

Our team of engineers are experienced with assessing all types of mining equipment.

Clear project timescales

Projects can be started early and progressed quickly with our efficient and established processes.

Communication 

Regular, clear and constructive communication allows you to stay on top of your testing and approval process.