MSHA temporarily halts silica enforcement

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) will temporarily pause its silica enforcement for coal mine operators until August 18, 2025, four months from its original compliance date of April 14, 2025.

Under the agency’s silica rule, mine operators must update their respiratory protection programs. This may require them to obtain additional respirators and sampling devices. MSHA says the temporary pause provides time for operators to secure necessary equipment and come into compliance. It will also give the agency time to assist with mining industry compliance.

MSHA will continue its regular enforcement activities on existing standards for respirable coal mine dust. The pause does not affect the April 8, 2026, compliance date for metal and nonmetal mines.