Coal mine operators may apply for and be granted a permit to use nonpermissible explosives and nonpermissible shot-firing units. Applications contain the safeguards the mine operator is going to employ to protect the miners while using nonpermissible blasting items.
Applications for permits increased from 50 to 68; a decrease in misfires requiring a placecard to be posted (from 57 to 33) corresponds to the decrease in the number of active mining units using explosives to break coal.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.