West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 48 - Miner Training Education And Certification
West Virginia Code of State Rules – Agency 48: Miner Training, Education, and Certification
Overview:
Agency 48 of the West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) establishes the official rules for miner training, education, and certification, as administered by the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training (WVMHST). These rules are designed to ensure that miners and mine operators are properly trained, tested, and certified to promote health and safety in both surface and underground mining environments.
The rules implement and expand upon the requirements found in West Virginia Code §22A, particularly focused on mine safety and education.
Key Objectives of Agency 48 Rules:
Certify and train coal miners, mine foremen, electrical workers, and other specialized roles.
Promote safe mining practices through mandated training programs.
Ensure compliance with federal and state mining regulations.
Establish qualifications, examination procedures, and continuing education standards.
Core Rule Series under Agency 48:
🔹 §48-1: Certification Requirements
Outlines procedures to obtain state certifications for:
Underground miners
Surface miners
Mine foremen
Electricians
Shot-firers
Mine examiners
Describes eligibility (age, experience, health), application requirements, and documentation.
🔹 §48-2: Training and Education Standards
Mandates initial training (e.g., 40-hour new miner courses) and annual refresher training.
Addresses:
Safety and health topics
Hazard recognition
Use of self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs)
Mine rescue training
Covers both in-person and approved online/remote training platforms (if permitted).
🔹 §48-3: Examination Procedures
Details written and practical exams required for certifications.
Exam topics include:
Mining laws and regulations
Emergency response
Electrical safety (for electricians)
Specifies passing scores, retesting rules, and how exams are administered.
🔹 §48-4: Reciprocity and Certification Transfers
Rules for recognizing mining certifications from other states or federal authorities (e.g., MSHA).
May require additional testing or documentation to prove equivalency.
🔹 §48-5: Disciplinary Procedures and Revocation
Lists grounds for disciplinary actions, including:
Falsifying training records
Negligence leading to accidents or unsafe work environments
Working without proper certification
Outlines due process rights, hearing procedures, and reinstatement rules.
🔹 §48-6: Instructor Approval and Training Providers
Requirements for individuals or institutions seeking to offer certified training.
Instructors must meet specific experience and education thresholds.
Training programs must align with MSHA standards and state regulations.
Certification Types Commonly Regulated:
Underground Coal Miner
Surface Coal Miner
Mine Foreman (Fire Boss)
Electrician (Underground/Surface)
Shot-firer/Blaster
Mine Rescue Team Members
Instructor Certification
Legal Authority:
West Virginia Code §22A – Miners' Health, Safety and Training Act
Administered by the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training (WVMHST)
Training schedules and forms
Exam applications and study guides
Lists of certified individuals and instructors
Regulatory updates
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