1219-0141 Supporting Statement 2025

Emergency Mine Evacuation

OMB Control Number: 1219-0141

OMB Expiration Date: 12/31/2025

Supporting Statement for

Emergency Mine Evacuation

Paperwork Reduction Act Submission

This information collection request (ICR) seeks to extend, without change, a currently approved information collection.

OMB Control Number: 1219-0141

Information Collection Request Title: Emergency Mine Evacuation

Type of OMB Review: Extension

Authority:

Part 48 – Training and Retraining of Miners

Subpart A – Training and Retraining of Underground Miners

30 CFR 48.3 – Training plans; time of submission; where filed; information required; time for approval; method for disapproval; commencement of training; approval of instructors.

Part 75 – Mandatory Safety Standards – Underground Coal Mines

Subpart P – Mine Emergencies

30 CFR 75.1502 – Mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction.

30 CFR 75.1504 – Mine emergency evacuation training and drills.

30 CFR 75.1505 – Escapeway maps.

Part 75 – Mandatory Safety Standards – Underground Coal Mines

Subpart R – Miscellaneous

30 CFR 75.1714-2 – Self-rescue devices; use and location requirements.

30 CFR 75.1714-3 – Self-rescue devices; inspection, testing, maintenance, repair, and recordkeeping.

30 CFR 75.1714-4 – Additional self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs).

30 CFR 75.1714-5 – Map locations of self-contained self-rescuers (SCSR).

30 CFR 75.1714-8 – Reporting SCSR inventory and malfunctions; retention of SCSRs.

Collection Instrument(s): MSHA Form 2000-222, Self-Contained Self-Rescuer (SCSR) Inventory and Report

General Instructions

A Supporting Statement, including the text of the notice to the public required by 5 CFR 1320.5(a)(i)(iv) and its actual or estimated date of publication in the Federal Register, must accompany each request for approval of a collection of information. The Supporting Statement must be prepared in the format described below and must contain the information specified in Section A below. If an item is not applicable, provide a brief explanation. When the question “Does this ICR contain surveys, censuses or employ statistical methods” is checked "Yes", Section B of the Supporting Statement must be completed. OMB reserves the right to require the submission of additional information with respect to any request for approval.

Specific Instructions

A. Justification

1. Explain the circumstances that make the collection of information necessary. Identify any legal or administrative requirements that necessitate the collection. Attach a copy of the appropriate section of each statute and regulation mandating or authorizing the collection of information.

Section 103(h) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act), as amended, 30 U.S.C. 813(h), authorizes the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to collect information necessary to carry out its duty in protecting the safety and health of miners. Further, section 101(a) of the Mine Act, 30 U.S.C. 811(a), authorizes the Secretary of Labor (Secretary) to develop, promulgate, and revise as may be appropriate, improved mandatory health or safety standards for the protection of life and prevention of injuries in coal, metal, and nonmetal mines.

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA) governs paperwork burdens imposed on the public by Federal agencies for using identical questions to collect information from 10 or more persons. The PRA defines paperwork burden in 44 U.S.C. 3502(2) as time, effort, or financial resources expended to generate, maintain, or provide information to or for a Federal agency. Under 44 U.S.C. 3507, the PRA also establishes policies and procedures of information collection for controlling paperwork burdens imposed by Federal agencies on the public, including evaluating public comments.

To fulfill its statutory mandate to promote miners’ health and safety, MSHA requires information collected under the information collection request (ICR) titled “Emergency Mine Evacuation.” This information collection is intended to ensure that all miners receive training on the mine’s emergency evacuation plan and self-rescuers. Specifically, miner training for mine emergencies includes mine emergency firefighting and evacuation training and drills; storing, testing, tracking, and using self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs); and installing and maintaining escapeways in underground coal mines. Mine operators must also maintain an inventory of SCSRs and ensure they are operational in case of an emergency.

Burden costs associated with this information collection request include:

1. Submission of revised training plans;

2. Submission of new and revised mine emergency evacuation and firefighting programs of instruction;

3. Certifications of mine emergency evacuation training and drills;

4. Revisions to and posting of escapeway maps;

5. Certifications of filter self-rescuers (FSR) and SCSRs tests

6. Reporting of SCSR inventories and malfunctions; and

7. Signs of SCSR storage.

Authorization and the associated rule text are described below.

1. Submission of Revised Training Plans

Under 30 CFR 48.3(p), each underground coal mine operator who is required to submit a revised mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction under 30 CFR 75.1502 must also submit a revised training plan under part 48.

2. Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction

Under 30 CFR 75.1502(a), mine operators must submit a mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction and any revisions, for approval to the District Manager in which the mine is located. Within 30 days of approval, the operator must conduct training in accordance with the revised program.

Under 30 CFR 75.1502(c), the approved program must include a specific plan designed to instruct miners on all shifts on the following: procedures for evacuating the mine; procedures related to deploying refuge alternatives; training on location, quantity, types, and use of stored SCSRs; and other information.

3. Certification of Mine Emergency Evacuation Training and Drills

Under 30 CFR 75.1504, each operator of an underground coal mine must conduct mine emergency evacuation training and drills and require all miners to participate.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(a), all miners must participate in a mine emergency evacuation training and drill once each quarter.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(a)(1), a newly hired miner, who has not participated in a mine emergency evacuation training and drill at the mine within the previous 3 months, must participate in the next applicable mine emergency evacuation training and drill.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(a)(2), prior to assuming duties on a section or outby work location, a foreman must travel both escapeways in their entirety.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(b), each quarterly evacuation training and drill must include the following: hands-on training on all types of self-rescue devices and fire suppression equipment used at the mine; training that emphasizes the importance of proper use of the SCSR; a realistic escapeway drill; a review of the mine and escapeway maps, the firefighting plan, and the mine emergency evacuation plan in effect at the mine; and a review of the procedures for deploying refuge alternatives and components.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(c), over the course of each year, each miner must participate in annual expectations training that includes the following: donning and transferring SCSRs in smoke, simulated smoke, or an equivalent environment; breathing through a realistic SCSR training unit that provides the sensation of SCSR airflow resistance and heat; and deployment and use of refuge alternatives similar to those in use at the mine.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d), at the completion of each training or drill, mine operators must certify by signature and date that the training or drill was held in accordance with the requirements in 30 CFR 75.1504.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d)(1), this certification must include the names of the miners participating in the training or drill and the content of the training or drill component completed, including the escapeway traveled and scenario used, for each miner listed.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d)(2), the mine operator is required to keep the certifications at the mine for one year.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d)(3), upon request, the certifications must be made available to an authorized representative of the Secretary and the representative of the miners.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d)(4), upon request, a copy of the certification that shows his or her own training must be provided to the participating miner.

4. Revisions to and Posting of Escapeway Maps

IV-1. Revisions to Escapeway Maps

Under 30 CFR 75.1505(b), all maps must be kept up-to-date and any change in route of travel, location of doors, location of refuge alternatives, or direction of airflow must be shown on the maps by the end of the shift on which the change is made.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-5, the mine operator must indicate the locations of all stored SCSRs on the mine maps required by 30 CFR 75.1200 and the escapeway maps required by 30 CFR 75.1505.

IV-2. Posting of Escapeway Maps

Under 30 CFR 75.1505(a), an escapeway map must show the designated escapeways from the working sections or the miners' work stations to the surface or the exits at the bottom of the shaft or slope, refuge alternatives, and SCSR storage locations. The escapeway map must be posted or readily accessible for all miners -

• In each working section;

• In each area where mechanized mining equipment is being installed or removed;

• At the refuge alternative; and

• At a surface location of the mine where miners congregate, such as at the mine bulletin board, bathhouse, or waiting room.

5. Certification of FSR and SCSR Tests

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(b), after each time a self-rescue device is worn or carried by a person, the device must be inspected for damage and for the integrity of its seal by a person trained to perform this function. Self-rescue devices with broken seals or which are damaged so that the device will not function properly must be removed from service.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(c), all FSRs approved by MSHA and NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84, except devices using vacuum containers as the only method of sealing, must be tested at intervals not exceeding 90 days by weighing each device on a scale or balance accurate to within + 1 gram. A device that weighs more than 10 grams over its original weight must be removed from service.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(d), all SCSRs approved by MSHA and NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84 must be tested in accordance with instructions approved by MSHA and NIOSH. Any device which does not meet the specified test requirements must be removed from service.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(e), at the completion of each test required by 30 CFR 75.1714-3(c) and (d), the person making the tests must certify by signature and date that the tests were done. This person must make a record of all corrective action taken. Certifications and records must be kept at the mine and made available on request to an authorized representative of the Secretary.

6. Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a), a mine operator must submit to MSHA a complete inventory of all SCSRs at each mine. New mines must submit the inventory within 3 months of beginning operation.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a)(1), the inventory must include the mine name, MSHA mine ID number, and mine location; and for each SCSR unit, the manufacturer, the model type, the date of manufacture, and the serial number.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a)(2), in the event that a change in the inventory occurs, a mine operator must report the change to MSHA within the quarter that the change occurs (Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep, Oct-Dec).

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(b), a mine operator must report to MSHA any defect, performance problem, or malfunction with the use of an SCSR. The report must include a detailed description of the problem and, for each SCSR involved, the information required under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a)(1).

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(c), the mine operator must preserve and retain each SCSR reported under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(b) for 60 days after reporting the problem to MSHA.

7. Signs of SCSR Storage

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-2(f), if an SCSR is not carried out of the mine at the end of a miner's shift, the place of storage must be approved by the District Manager. A sign made of reflective material with the word “SCSRs” or “SELF-RESCUERS” must be conspicuously posted at each SCSR storage location. Direction signs made of a reflective material must be posted leading to each storage location.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-2(g)(2), when the one-hour canister is placed in a storage location, a sign made of a reflective material with the word “SCSRs” or “SELF-RESCUERS” must be conspicuously posted at each storage location. Direction signs made of a reflective material must be posted leading to each storage location.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-4(f), a sign made of reflective material with the words “SCSRs” or “SELF-RESCUERS” must be conspicuously posted at each storage location. Direction signs made of a reflective material must be posted leading to each storage location.

Coal mine operators’ burden and costs associated with recordkeeping and reporting requirements of training miners for emergency evacuation and escapeway plans are included in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0009 titled “Training Plans and Records of Training for Underground Miners and Miners Working at Surface Mines and Surface Areas of Underground Mines.”

Coal mine operators’ burden and costs associated with recordkeeping and reporting requirements of refuge alternatives and emergency response plans are included in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0146 titled “Refuge Alternatives for Underground Coal Mines.”

Coal mine operators’ burden and costs associated with recordkeeping and reporting requirements of ventilation plans are included in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0088 titled “Ventilation Plans, Tests, and Examinations in Underground Coal Mines.”

MSHA’s burden and costs associated with reviewing escapeways are included in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0046 titled “Escape and Evacuation Plans.”

2. Indicate how, by whom, and for what purpose the information is to be used. Except for a new collection, indicate the actual use the agency has made of the information received from the current collection.

Miners at underground coal mines are required to participate in regular mine emergency evacuation training and drills to ensure they are familiar with the escape plan and the SCSR and FCR devices used. MSHA reviews the emergency evacuation plans to ensure that all miners are receiving the necessary training. The certifications of training and drills are used by MSHA, mine operators, and miners as evidence that the required training has been completed. Failure to do so could result in injury or loss of life. The information collected gives MSHA, mine operators, and miners confidence that the training is appropriate and conducted as necessary.

3. Describe whether, and to what extent, the collection of information involves the use of automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses, and the basis for the decision for adopting this means of collection. Also, describe any consideration of using information technology to reduce burden.

No improved information technology has been identified that would reduce the existing burden.

For part 48 training plans, MSHA maintains an internet-accessible system (MSHA Training Plan Advisor) for mine operators to use when preparing and submitting their plans. This is an optional method designed to increase the likelihood that the plan will be complete, with the potential to decrease the paperwork burden. It is accessed through MSHA's web page at: https://www.msha.gov/training/developing-training-plan/electronic-training-plan-advisor.

Although the Agency allows mine operators to submit the mine emergency evacuation program of instruction and the Training Plan Advisor electronically, they are generally mailed to MSHA.

Additionally, MSHA has developed an online system for reporting and maintaining the SCSR inventory required by 30 CFR 75.1714-8. MSHA also provides a paper form (MSHA Form 2000-222, “SCSR Inventory and Report”) for mine operators who prefer to submit this information through the mail. Over 90 percent of the SCSR Inventory and Report forms are submitted electronically at: https://www.msha.gov/sites/default/files/Support_Resources/Forms/2000-222.pdf

4. Describe efforts to identify duplication. Show specifically why any similar information already available cannot be used or modified for use for the purposes described in Item A.2 above.

No similar or duplicate information is available or submitted to MSHA.

5. If the collection of information impacts small businesses or other small entities, describe any methods used to minimize burden.

The information collection provisions apply to all mine operators, both large and small. Congress intended that the Secretary enforce the law at all mining operations within the Agency’s jurisdiction regardless of size and that information collection and recordkeeping requirements be consistent with efficient and effective enforcement of the Mine Act. [S. Rep. No. 95-181 (1977)]. Section 103(e) of the Mine Act, 30 U.S.C. 813(e), directs the Secretary not to impose an unreasonable burden on small businesses when obtaining any information under the Mine Act. MSHA considered the burden on small mines when developing the collection and believes that these information collection requirements are imposed on all mining operators and do not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small businesses or other small entities.

To minimize the administrative burden of the emergency mine evacuation regulations, MSHA has provided a training plan addendum for the SCSR donning and transferring procedures, templates for various mine emergency scenarios, and a template checklist for tracking miners' completion of components of mine emergency evacuation training and drills. MSHA provides an online database system for reporting and maintaining the SCSR inventory required by 30 CFR 75.1714-8.

6. Describe the consequence to federal program or policy activities if the collection is not conducted or is conducted less frequently, as well as any technical or legal obstacles to reducing burden.

Without adequate training and drills, miners may sustain serious or fatal injuries during mine emergencies because they lack the knowledge to safely perform various tasks or evacuate the mine. If inspections and monitoring of SCSRs did not occur, the SCSR equipment might be unusable when needed and would endanger miners' safety. If mine operators were not required to submit an SCSR inventory or notify MSHA when they encounter an SCSR defect, performance problem, or malfunction, MSHA would not have the information needed to notify other mines that may use the same SCSRs who could be impacted.

7. Explain any special circumstances that would cause an information collection to be conducted in a manner:

• Requiring respondents to report information to the agency more often than quarterly;

• Requiring respondents to prepare a written response to a collection of information in fewer than 30 days after receipt of it;

• Requiring respondents to submit more than an original and two copies of any document;

• Requiring respondents to retain records, other than health, medical, government contract, grant-in-aid, or tax records for more than three years;

• In connection with a statistical survey, that is not designed to produce valid and reliable results that can be generalized to the universe of study;

• Requiring the use of a statistical data classification that has not been reviewed and approved by OMB;

• That includes a pledge of confidentiality that is not supported by authority established in statue or regulation, that is not supported by disclosure and data security policies that are consistent with the pledge, or which unnecessarily impedes sharing of data with other agencies for compatible confidential use; or

• Requiring respondents to submit proprietary trade secret, or other confidential information unless the agency can demonstrate that it has instituted procedures to protect the information's confidentiality to the extent permitted by law.

This collection of information is consistent with the guidelines in 5 CFR 1320.5.

8. If applicable, provide a copy and identify the date and page number of publication in the Federal Register of the agency's notice, required by 5 CFR 1320.8(d), soliciting comments on the information collection prior to submission to OMB. Summarize public comments received in response to that notice and describe actions taken by the agency in response to these comments. Specifically address comments received on cost and hour burden.

Describe efforts to consult with persons outside the agency to obtain their views on the availability of data, frequency of collection, the clarity of instructions and recordkeeping, disclosure, or reporting format (if any), and on the data elements to be recorded, disclosed, or reported.

Consultation with representatives of those from whom information is to be obtained or those who must compile records should occur at least once every 3 years - even if the collection of information activity is the same as in prior periods. There may be circumstances that may preclude consultation in a specific situation. These circumstances should be explained.

In accordance with 5 CFR 1320.8(d), MSHA will publish the proposed information collection requirements in the Federal Register, notify the public that the information collection requirements are being reviewed in accordance with the PRA, and provide 60 days for the public to submit comments. MSHA published a 60-day Federal Register notice on July 3, 2025 (90 FR 29582). MSHA received one comment. The comment was not relevant to the information collection.

9. Explain any decision to provide any payments or gifts to respondents, other than remuneration of contractors or grantees.

MSHA does not provide payment or gifts to respondents.

10. Describe any assurance of confidentiality provided to respondents and the basis for the assurance in statute, regulation, or agency policy.

There is no assurance of confidentiality provided to respondents.

11. Provide additional justification for any questions of a sensitive nature, such as sexual behavior and attitudes, religious beliefs, and other matters that are commonly considered private. This justification should include the reasons why the agency considers the questions necessary, the specific uses to be made of the information, the explanation to be given to persons from whom the information is requested, and any steps to be taken to obtain their consent.

There are no questions of a sensitive nature.

12. Provide estimates of the hour burden of the collection of information. The statement should:

• Indicate the number of respondents, frequency of response, annual hour burden, and an explanation of how the burden was estimated. Unless directed to do so, agencies should not conduct special surveys to obtain information on which to base hour burden estimates. Consultation with a sample (fewer than 10) of potential respondents is desirable. If the hour burden on respondents is expected to vary widely because of differences in activity, size, or complexity, show the range of estimated hour burden, and explain the reasons for the variance. Generally, estimates should not include burden hours for customary and usual business practices.

• If this request for approval covers more than one form, provide separate hour burden estimates for each form and aggregate the hour burdens.

• Provide estimates of annualized cost to respondents for the hour burdens for collections of information, identifying and using appropriate wage rate categories. The cost of contracting out or paying outside parties for information collection activities should not be included here. Instead, this cost should be included under ‘Annual Cost to Federal Government’.

Respondents

All information related to quantities and inspection rates are estimated by MSHA’s Headquarters Enforcement Division based on field experience with different types of mining operations, sizes of mines, and the frequency of inspections dictated by statute. Mine operators provide MSHA’s Headquarters Enforcement Division with the number of mines and employment, and from this information MSHA tracks the number of active and inactive mines and mine types throughout the United States.

Based on 2024 internal MSHA data, there are 150 active underground coal mines employing an average of about 23,951 miners and there are 444 active mechanized mining units (MMU).

Wage Rates Determinations¹

MSHA uses data from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for hourly wage rates² and adjusts the rates for benefits,³ wage inflation,⁴ and overhead costs.⁵ The occupations listed below in Table 12-1 are those that were determined to be relevant for the cost calculations.

Table 12-1. Hourly Wage Rates

Occupation	NAICS Code	Mean Wage Rate	Benefit Multiplier	Inflation Multiplier	Overhead Cost Multiplier	Loaded Hourly Wage Rate
		A	B	C	D	A x B x C x D
Safety Director[a]	212100	$60.86	1.456	1.048	1.01	$93.80
Clerk[b]	212100	$22.81	1.456	1.048	1.01	$35.16

Notes:

Benefit Multiplier – MSHA uses the latest 4-quarter moving average 2023Q4-2024Q3 to determine that 31.3 percent of total loaded wages are benefits for private industry workers in construction, extraction, farming, fishing, and forestry occupations. The benefit multiplier is 1.456 = 1+(0.313/(1-0.313)).

Inflation Multiplier – The inflation multiplier is determined by using the employment price index from the most current quarter, 2024Q3, divided by the base year and quarter of the OEWS employment and wage statistics, 2023Q2, for private industry workers in construction, extraction, farming, fishing, and forestry occupations, current dollar index. The inflation multiplier is 1.048 = 164.8/157.3.

Overhead Multiplier – MSHA uses the overhead multiplier of 1.01.

[a] The Standard Occupation Codes (SOCs) used for this occupation are (17-2151), (19-5011), and (19-5012). Additionally, the 90^th percentile wage is used to reflect the degree of expertise required.

[b] The SOCs used for this occupation are (43-3031), (43-3051), (43-3061), (43-5071), and (43-9061).

Hour Burden

1. Submission of Revised Training Plans

Under 30 CFR 48.3(p), if an underground coal mine submits a revised mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction, it is required to submit a revised training plan to address training for new miners, training for experienced miners, training for miners for new tasks, annual refresher training, and hazard training.

MSHA estimates that, on average, a training plan revision at each underground coal mine will be needed approximately once every two years. Since there are 150 active underground coal mines required to submit training plan revisions once every two years, MSHA divided 150 mines by two to arrive at the annual average of 75 revised training plans submitted. This frequency includes new mines.

MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 45 minutes to revise a training plan. In addition, MSHA estimates that it takes a clerical employee, earning $35.16 per hour, 6 minutes to copy and send the revised material.

Table 12-2. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Submission of Revised Training Plans (30 CFR 48.3(p))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Revised Training Plans)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Revisions (Safety Director)	150	0.5	75	0.75	56.25	$93.80	$5,276.25
Filing of Revisions (Clerk)	150	0.5	75	0.10	7.50	$35.16	$263.70
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		75		64		$5,540

Note: The total number of respondents and responses does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record.

2. Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction

Under 30 CFR 75.1502(a), mine operators must submit a mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction, and any revisions, to the District Manager of the district in which the mine is located. There are 150 active underground coal mines and MSHA estimates that, on average, a revision to a new or existing program of instruction will be needed approximately once every two years. MSHA divided 150 active underground coal mines by two, to arrive at the annual average figure of 75 programs submitted. This frequency includes new mines.

MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare a new or revised program of instruction. MSHA also estimates that it takes a clerical employee, earning $35.16 per hour, 6 minutes to copy and send a program of instruction to the appropriate MSHA District Manager.

Table 12-3. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction (30 CFR 75.1502(a))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Programs of Instruction)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Preparation of Programs of Instruction (Safety Director)	150	0.5	75	2.50	187.50	$93.80	$17,587.50
Submission of Programs of Instruction (Clerk)	150	0.5	75	0.10	7.50	$35.16	$263.70
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		75		195		$17,851

Note: The total number of respondents and responses does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record.

3. Certifications of Mine Emergency Evacuation Training and Drills

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(a)(2), prior to assuming duties on a section or outby work location, a foreman must travel both escapeways in their entirety.

MSHA estimates that certifications will occur 4 times per year for each foreman traveling escapeways. In 2024, MSHA records show that there are 444 active MMUs in underground coal mines. Each MMU requires one foreman for each shift that it is operated. MSHA estimates that each MMU will operate an average of three shifts per day. MSHA also estimates that there will be an average of one additional foreman for outby or other work associated with each MMU for a total of 4 foremen per MMU. MSHA thus estimates that there are 1,776 foremen of MMUs each year (= 444 active MMUs X 4 firemen). Since each foreman will need to be trained 4 times each year, there will be 7,104 training certifications each year (=1,776 X 4 quarters).

Table 12-4A. Number of MMU Foremen Training to Travel Escapeways

Number of MMUs	Foremen per MMU	Total Number of Foremen	Total Number of Foreman Training
444	4	1,776	7,104

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(c), each underground coal miner must participate in expectations training once a year.

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(a), each underground coal miner must participate in a mine emergency evacuation training and drill once each quarter (4 times per year).

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d)(4), mine operators must provide a copy of the miner's training certification to miners upon request.

The annual expectations training will result in one certification per underground coal miner per year. Each underground coal miner would also require four certifications per year for completing the mine emergency evacuation training and drills. As of 2024, there were 23,951 underground coal miners which will require 23,951 annual expectation training certificates and 95,804 quarterly training certifications each year (= 23,951 miners X 4 quarters).

Mine emergency evacuation training and drills are mine-specific and are not transferable to another mine; therefore, there is little incentive for miners to request copies. Based on the last three years of data, MSHA estimates that approximately 5 percent or 1,198 miners (= 23,951 miners x 5 percent) will request copies of their quarterly emergency evacuation training certificates in any given year.

Table 12-4B. Number of Miner Certifications and Requests for Miner Certifications

Number of Miners	Number of Quarterly Certifications Each Year	Number of Requests for Copy of Certificates
23,951	95,804	1,198

Under 30 CFR 75.1504(d), mine operators must certify when mine emergency evacuation training or drills are completed.

MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 9 seconds to sign and date each certification for each miner or foremen that received the required training. MSHA also estimates that it takes a clerical employee, earning $35.16 per hour, 1.5 minutes to fulfill each request for a copy of a miner’s training certificate.

Table 12-4. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Certification of Mine Emergency Evacuation Training and Drills (30 CFR 75.1504(a)(2), 75.1504(d), and 75.1504(d)(4))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Certificates)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Certification of Quarterly Foremen Traveling Escapeways (Safety Director)	150	47.4	7,104	0.003	17.76	$93.80	$1,665.89
Certification of Annual Expectations Training (Safety Director)	150	159.7	23,951	0.003	59.88	$93.80	$5,616.51
Certification of Quarterly Evacuation Training (Safety Director)	150	638.7	95,804	0.003	239.51	$93.80	$22,466.04
Provision of Copies of Miner Training Certification (Clerk)	150	8.0	1,198	0.17	199.67	$35.16	$7,020.28
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		128,057		517		$36,769

Notes: The total number of respondents does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record. The number of responses per respondent is calculated by dividing the number of responses by the number of respondents and rounded.

4. Revisions to and Posting of Escapeway Maps

IV-1. Revisions to Escapeway Maps

Under 30 CFR 75.1505(b), mine operators must show any change in route of travel, location of doors, location of refuge alternatives, or direction of airflow on the escapeway maps by the end of the shift on which the change is made.

MSHA assumes that escapeway maps will be updated, on average, on a quarterly basis. MSHA's records show that there are 150 underground coal mines, 444 active MMUs, and 754 refuge alternatives. MSHA assumes that each underground coal mine, working section, active MMU, and refuge alternative has an escapeway map that requires revision. MSHA assumes that, on average, for each quarter there will be one revision to the 150 master escapeway maps, 150 working sections, 444 active MMUs, and 754 refuge alternatives. In total, MSHA estimates 1,498 revisions to escapeway maps in each quarter, and 5,992 revisions per year. MSHA expects that any changes in the SCSR storage locations specified in 30 CFR 75.1714-5 will be plotted on the escapeway maps during the quarterly update.

Table 12-5A. Number of Revised Escapeway Maps

Location	Number of Revisions	Updates per Year	Revised Maps
Master Escapeway Maps	150	4	600
Working Sections	150	4	600
Active MMUs	444	4	1,776
Refuge Alternatives	754	4	3,016
Total	1,498		5,992

MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 15 minutes to revise an escapeway map.

Table 12-5. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Revisions to Escapeway Maps (30 CFR 75.1505(b))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Maps)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Revisions to Master Escapeway Maps (Safety Director)	150	4.0	600	0.25	150.00	$93.80	$14,070.00
Revisions to Working Sections (Safety Director)	150	4.0	600	0.25	150.00	$93.80	$14,070.00
Revisions to MMUs (Safety Director)	150	11.8	1,776	0.25	444.00	$93.80	$41,647.20
Revisions to Refuge Alternatives (Safety Director)	150	20.1	3,016	0.25	754.00	$93.80	$70,725.20
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		5,992		1,498		$140,512

Note: The total number of respondents does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record. The number of responses per respondent is calculated by dividing the number of responses by the number of respondents and rounded.

IV-2. Posting of Escapeway Maps

Under 30 CFR 75.1505(a), the escapeway maps must be posted or readily accessible for all miners in each working section, in each area where an MMU is installed or removed, at the refuge alternative, and at a surface location where miners congregate, such as at the mine bulletin board.

MSHA assumes that, on average, for each underground coal mine, 1 revised escapeway map is posted at each working section, active MMU, refuge alternative, and at a surface location. Every year mine operators need to post 600 revised maps for working sections, 1,776 maps for MMUs, 3,016 maps for refuge alternatives, and 600 maps at the surface location.

MSHA estimates that it takes a clerical employee, earning $35.16 per hour, 6 minutes to make copies of the revised escapeway map and post them as required in 30 CFR 75.1505(a).

Table 12-6. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Posting of Escapeway Maps (30 CFR 75.1505(a))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Maps)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Posting at Working Sections (Clerk)	150	4.0	600	0.10	60.00	$35.16	$2,109.60
Posting at MMUs (Clerk)	150	11.8	1,776	0.10	177.60	$35.16	$6,244.42
Posting at Refuge Alternatives (Clerk)	150	20.1	3,016	0.10	301.60	$35.16	$10,604.26
Posting at Surface Locations (Clerk)	150	4.0	600	0.10	60.00	$35.16	$2,109.60
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		5,992		3,385		$288,023

Note: The total number of respondents does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record. The number of responses per respondent is calculated by dividing the number of responses by the number of respondents and rounded.

4. Certification of FSR and SCSR Tests

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(d), all SCSRs approved by MSHA and NIOSH under 42 CFR Part 84, must be tested in accordance with instructions approved by MSHA and NIOSH. All approved SCSRs currently require quarterly inspection and testing.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-3(e), upon completion of the FSR and SCSR tests the person making the test must certify by signature and date that the tests were done. This person must also make a record of all corrective actions taken.

Based on the MSHA SCSR inventory database, there are currently 208,587 SCSRs in service, which requires 834,348 quarterly tests each year (=208,587 x 4 quarters). MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 30 minutes to complete the inspection, certify by signature and date, and record corrective actions.

Table 12-7. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Certification of FSR and SCSR Tests (30 CFR 75.1714-3(e))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Tests)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Certification of FSR and SCSR Tests (Safety Director)	150	5,562.3	834,348	0.50	417,174.00	$93.80	$39,130,921.20
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		834,348		417,174		$39,130,921

Note: The number of responses per respondent is calculated by dividing the number of responses by the number of respondents and rounded.

4. Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a), mine operators must provide MSHA with a complete inventory of all SCSRs at each mine.

MSHA has developed a web-based inventory system that mine operators may use to comply with this requirement. MSHA also accepts spreadsheet-based inventories and paper forms (MSHA Form 2000-222, “SCSR Inventory and Report”).

MSHA estimates that there are about 9,000 electronic and 5,255 paper submissions of inventory change requests annually. MSHA assumes that submitting electronic records can be submitted automatically and thus places no measurable burden on mine operators. MSHA estimates that it takes a clerical employee, earning $35.16 per hour, 1 minute to submit a paper record of an inventory change.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(b), mine operators must report any defect, performance problem or malfunction with the use of an SCSR. Historically, MSHA has received few reports of SCSR problems. MSHA estimates that, on average, 10 SCSR problems will be reported per year. MSHA estimates that it takes a safety director, earning $93.80 per hour, 1 hour to prepare and submit an SCSR problem report.

Table 12-8. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions (30 CFR 75.1714-8(a) and (b))

Activity (Occupation)	Number of Respondents (Mines)	Number of Responses per Respondent	Total Responses (Reports)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
Submission of SCSR Inventories (Clerk)	150	35	5,255	0.02	87.58	$35.16	$3,079.43
Preparation of SCSR Problem Reports (Safety Director)	150	0.07	10	1.00	10.00	$93.80	$938.00
Subtotal (Rounded)	150		5,265		98		$4,017

Notes: The total number of respondents does not correspond to the sum of rows because different respondents work on the same record. The number of responses per respondent is calculated by dividing the number of responses by the number of respondents and rounded.

4. Signs of SCSR Storage

MSHA assumes that the hour burden and cost associated with posting signs of SCSR storage is de minimis.

Hour Burden Summary

MSHA estimates that the 150 respondents would incur, on average, an annual collection burden of 422,930 hours with an associated annual cost of $39,623,634. The annual respondent hour and cost burden is summarized in Table 12-9 below.

Table 12-9. Estimated Annual Respondent Hour and Cost Burden, Summary

Activity	30 CFR	Number of Respondents	Total Responses	Total Burden (Hours)	Total Burden Cost
I. Submission of Revised Training Plans	48.3(p)	150	75	63.75	$5,539.95
II. Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction	75.1502(a)	150	75	195.00	$17,851.20
III. Certification of Mine Emergency Evacuation Training and Drills	75.1504(a)(2) 75.1504(d) 75.1504(d)(4))	150	128,057	516.81	$36,768.72
IV-1. Revisions to Escapeway Maps	75.1505(b)	150	5,992	1,498.00	$140,512.40
IV-2. Posting of Revised Escapeway Maps	75.1505(a)	150	5,992	3,385.20	$288,022.67
V. Certification of FSR and SCSR Tests	75.1714-3(e)	150	834,348	417,174.00	$39,130,921.20
VI. Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions	75.1714-8(a) and (b)	150	5,265	97.58	$4,017.43
Total (Rounded)		150	979,804	422,930	$39,623,634

Note: The total number of respondents is not a sum of respondents from each cost category. It corresponds to the number of underground coal mines.

13. Provide an estimate of the total annual cost burden to respondents or record keepers resulting from the collection of information. (Do not include the cost of any hour burden already reflected on the burden worksheet).

• The cost estimate should be split into two components: (a) a total capital and start-up cost component (annualized over its expected useful life); and (b) a total operation and maintenance and purchase of services component. The estimates should take into account costs associated with generating, maintaining, and disclosing or providing the information. Include descriptions of methods used to estimate major cost factors including system and technology acquisition, expected useful life of capital equipment, the discount rate(s), and the time period over which costs will be incurred. Capital and start-up costs include, among other items, preparations for collecting information such as purchasing computers and software; monitoring, sampling, drilling and testing equipment; and record storage facilities.

• If cost estimates are expected to vary widely, agencies should present ranges of cost burdens and explain the reasons for the variance. The cost of purchasing or contracting out information collection services should be a part of this cost burden estimate. In developing cost burden estimates, agencies may consult with a sample of respondents (fewer than 10), utilize the 60-day pre-OMB submission public comment process and use existing economic or regulatory impact analysis associated with the rulemaking containing the information collection, as appropriate.

• Generally, estimates should not include purchases of equipment or services, or portions thereof, made: (1) prior to October 1, 1995, (2) to achieve regulatory compliance with requirements not associated with the information collection, (3) for reasons other than to provide information or keep records for the government, or (4) as part of customary and usual business or private practices.

Maintenance and operations burden costs include copying and mailing documents to the District Manager. MSHA estimates that copying costs are $0.15 per page and mailing costs are $1.50 per document.

1. Submission of Revised Training Plans

Under 30 CFR 48.3(p), mine operators must submit to MSHA a revised training plan. MSHA estimates that this will be done for each of the 75 mines that update their training plans each year.

MSHA estimates that each plan is 10 pages long. MSHA estimates the cost to be $3 per training plan, which includes $1.50 for copying and $1.50 for mailing.

Table 13-1. Estimated Annual Respondent or Recordkeeper Cost Burden, Submission of Revised Training Plans (30 CFR 48.3(p))

Cost components	Number of Responses (Revised Training Plans)	Unit Cost	Number of Units Per Response	Cost to Recordkeepers
Copying and Mailing of Training Plans	75	$3.00	1	$225.00
Subtotal (Rounded)	75			$225

2. Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction

Under 30 CFR 75.1502(a), mine operators are required to submit mine emergency evacuation and firefighting programs of instruction to the District Manager. MSHA estimates that this will be done for each of the 75 mines that submit their programs of instruction each year.

MSHA estimates that each plan is 10 pages long. MSHA estimates the cost per training to be $3 per plan, which includes $1.50 for copying and $1.50 for mailing.

Table 13-2. Estimated Annual Respondent or Recordkeeper Cost Burden, Submission of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction (30 CFR 75.1502(a))

Cost components	Number of Responses (Programs)	Unit Cost	Number of Units Per Response	Cost to Recordkeepers
Copying and Mailing of Programs of Instruction	75	$3.00	1	$225.00
Subtotal (Rounded)	75			$225

IV-2. Posting of Escapeway Maps

Under 30 CFR 75.1505(a), mine operators must post an accurate, up-to-date escapeway map at each working section, each area where mechanized mining equipment is being installed or removed, at surface locations where miners congregate, and in each refuge alternative.

MSHA estimates there are 5,992 revised escapeway maps posted each year. MSHA estimates that a copy of an escapeway map costs $6.00 each.

Table 13-3. Estimated Annual Respondent or Recordkeeper Cost Burden, Posting of Escapeway Maps (30 CFR 75.1505(a))

Cost components	Number of Responses (Maps)	Unit Cost	Number of Units Per Response	Cost to Recordkeepers
Posting of Escapeway Maps	5,992	$6.00	1	$35,952.00
Subtotal (Rounded)	5,992			$35,952

VI. Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(a), mine operators must provide MSHA with an inventory of all SCSRs used at each mine using MSHA Form 2000-222. MSHA estimates that on average 5,255 paper record change requests are submitted annually. The 9,000 electronic submissions have no additional paperwork costs. MSHA estimates that approximately 10 percent of mine operators will submit paper inventory reports rather than using the online database forms. MSHA then estimates that there will be 526 SCSR reports of changed records (=5,255 x 0.10). MSHA estimates that each record is 2 pages (Form 2000-222 is one page and one continuation sheet). MSHA estimates the cost per change record to be $1.80 per report of record change request, which includes $0.30 for copying and $1.50 for mailing.

Under 30 CFR 75.1714-8(b), mine operators must also provide MSHA a report of any problems with SCSR using MSHA Form 2000-222. MSHA estimates that, on average, 10 SCSR problems will be reported per year. MSHA estimates that approximately 10 percent of the SCSR problem reports, 1 report (10 x 0.10), will be submitted by mail rather than using the online database forms each year, the other 9 reports will be submitted electronically and have no additional burden cost. MSHA estimates that each record is 10 pages. MSHA estimates the cost per problem report to be $3 per report of record change, which includes $1.50 for copying and $1.50 for mailing.

Table 13-4. Estimated Annual Respondent or Recordkeeper Cost Burden, Submission of Reports of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions (30 CFR 75.1714-8(a) and (b))

Cost components	Number of Responses (Reports)	Unit Cost	Number of Units Per Response	Cost to Recordkeepers
Copying and Mailing of Record Changes	526	$1.80	1	$946.80
Copying and Mailing of SCSR Problem Reports	1	$3.00	1	$3.00
Subtotal (Rounded)	527			$950

7. Signs of SCSR Storage

MSHA assumes that the cost of printing signs of SCSR storage is de minimis.

Cost Burden to Respondents or Recordkeepers, Summary

The annual cost burden to respondents or recordkeepers is summarized in Table 13-5 below.

Table 13-5. Estimated Annual Cost Burden to Respondents or Recordkeepers, Summary

Cost components	30 CFR	Number of Responses (Reports)	Cost to Recordkeepers
I. Copying and Mailing of Training Plans	48.3(p)	75	$225.00
II. Copying and Mailing of Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction	75.1502(a)	75	$225.00
IV-2. Posting of Escapeway Maps	75.1505(a)	5,992	$35,952.00
VI. Reporting of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions	75.1714-8(a) and (b)	527	$949.80
Total (Rounded)		6,669	$37,352

14. Provide estimates of annualized cost to the Federal government. Also, provide a description of the method used to estimate cost, which should include quantification of hours, operational expenses (such as equipment, overhead, printing, and support staff), and any other expense that would not have been incurred without this collection of information. Agencies also may aggregate cost estimates from Items 12, 13, and 14 in a single table.

MSHA uses data from the FedScope published by the Office of Personnel Management for hourly wage rates of Federal employees and adjusts the rates for benefits and overhead. The occupations listed below in Table 14-1 are those that were determined to be relevant for the Federal government cost calculations.

Table 14-1. Federal Hourly Wage Rates

Occupation	Occupation Code	Mean Wage Rate	Benefit & Overhead Multiplier [a]	Loaded Hourly Wage Rate
		A	B	A x B
GS-12 Safety Specialist [b]	1822	$47.55	1.586	$75.41
GS-7 Clerk [c]	0303	$27.81	1.586	$44.11

Note: Hourly wage rates developed from Office of Personnel Management (OPM) September 2023 FedScope Employment Cube, http://www.fedscope.opm.gov/.

[a] Benefit and overhead multiplier = 1 + (MSHA personnel benefits, travel and transportation, and rental expenses / MSHA personnel compensation) = (1+ ((76,679+20+5,309+5,932+17,577+71) / 180,071) (FY 2024 budget submission, use FY2023 Revised Enacted Budget: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/general/budget/2024/CBJ-2024-V2-13.pdf).

[b] Data search qualifiers are: Agency = DLMS, Occupation = 1822 (Mine Safety and Health Inspection), Work Schedule = Full-Time, Salary Grade = GS-12, Measure = Average Salary. The hourly wage is the annual salary divided by 2,087. In order to include the cost of benefits and overhead, MSHA multiplies the average annual salary by a federal benefit and overhead multiplier for MSHA of 1.586. Loaded hourly rate is $75.41 = (($99,228 / 2,087) x 1.586).

[c] Data search qualifiers are: Agency = DLMS, Occupation = 0303 (Miscellaneous Clerk and Assistant), Work Schedule = Full-Time, Salary Grade = GS-07, Measure = Average Salary. The hourly wage is the annual salary divided by 2,087. In order to include the cost of benefits and overhead, MSHA multiplies the average annual salary by a federal benefit and overhead multiplier for MSHA of 1.586. Loaded hourly rate is $44.11 = (($58,042 / 2,087) x 1.586).

1. Review of Revised Training Plans

The cost to the federal government in reviewing training plans are accounted for in in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0009 titled “Training Plans and Records of Training for Underground Miners and Miners Working at Surface Mines and Surface Areas of Underground Mines.”

2. Review of New and Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction

Under 30 CFR 75.1502(a), mine operators must submit a mine emergency evacuation and firefighting program of instruction to the District Manager where the mine is located. MSHA estimates that there are 75 plans submitted annually.

MSHA estimates that it takes a GS-12 safety specialist, earning $75.41 per hour, 1 hour to review a program of instruction and draft a letter of approval or disapproval. MSHA also estimates that it takes a GS-7 clerical employee, earning $44.11 per hour, 30 minutes to copy, send, and file, an approval or disapproval letter to the mine operator.

Table 14-2. Estimated Federal Hour and Cost Burden, Review of New or Revised Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction (30 CFR 75.1502(a))

Federal Occupation	Number of Responses (Plan Revisions)	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
GS-12 Safety Specialist	75	1.00	75.00	$75.41	$5,655.58
GS-7 Clerk	75	0.50	37.5	$44.11	$1,654.06
Subtotal (Rounded)	75		113		$7,310

IV-1. Review of Escapeway Maps

The cost to the federal government for reviewing escapeway maps is accounted for in a separate information collection request under OMB Control Number 1219-0046 titled “Escape and Evacuation Plans.”

6. Review of SCSR Inventories and Malfunctions

MSHA assumes that reviewing reports of SCSR inventories and any malfunctions are part of regular mine inspection and hence there is no additional cost of reviewing SCSR inventories or malfunction reports.

Cost Summary to the Federal Government

The annual cost burden to the Federal government is summarized in Table 14-3 below.

Table 14-3. Estimated Annual Federal Hour and Cost Burden, Summary

Activity	Number of Responses	Average Burden (Hours)	Total Burden (Hours)	Hourly Wage Rate	Total Burden Cost
I. Review of Mine Emergency Evacuation and Firefighting Programs of Instruction	75		113		$7,309.64
Total (Rounded)	75		113		$7,310

15. Explain the reasons for any program changes or adjustments on the burden worksheet.

Number of Respondents: The estimated number of respondents decreased from 155 to 150 due to a decline in the number of active underground coal mines.

Number of Responses: The estimated number of responses increased from 867,338 to 979,804 due to an increase in the number of underground coal miners.

Annual Time Burden: The estimated annual time burden increased from 372,761 to 420,930 due to an increase in the number of underground coal miners.

Annual Burden Costs: The estimated annual burden costs increased from $34,207,366 to $39,623,634 due to an increase in wages and number of underground coal miners.

Annual Other Burden Costs: The estimated annual other burden cost decreased from $62,186 to $37,352 due to a decrease in the number of escapeway maps to be posted.

Federal Hours: The estimated annual federal hours increased from 84 to 113 hours due to an increase in the number of plans reviewed.

Federal Costs: The estimated annual federal costs increased from $4,708 to $7,310 due to an increase in wages.

Table 15-1. Summary of Changes

Activity	Currently Approved ICR	Updated ICR	Difference
Number of Respondents	155	150	-5
Number of Responses	867,338	979,804	112,466
Annual Time Burden	372,761	422,930	50,169
Annual Burden Costs	$34,207,366	$39,623,634	$5,416,267
Annual Other Burden Costs	$62,186	$37,352	-$24,834
Federal Hours	84	113	29
Federal Costs	$4,708	$7,310	$2,602

16. For collections of information whose results will be published, outline plans for tabulation, and publication. Address any complex analytical techniques that will be used. Provide the time schedule for the entire project, including beginning and ending dates of the collection of information, completion of report, publication dates, and other actions.

MSHA does not intend to publish the results of this information collection.

17. If seeking approval to not display the expiration date for OMB approval of the information collection, explain the reasons that display would be inappropriate.

MSHA is not seeking approval to not display the expiration date for OMB approval of this information collection and there is no form associated with this collection.

18. Explain each exception to the topics of the certification statement identified in “Certification for Paperwork Reduction Act Submissions.”

There are no certification exceptions identified with this information collection.

B. Collections of information employing statistical methods

As statistical analysis is not required by the regulation, questions 1 through 5 do not apply.

1 For all wage rates, including Federal wage rates, MSHA uses the relevant precision throughout the calculation to avoid compound rounding errors and rounds at the final rate value. Displayed intermediate calculation values are presented to explain the calculation and are representative, but the final rate value reflects the correct rounding and final estimate.

2 To obtain OEWS data, follow BLS’s directions in its Frequently Asked Questions: “E. How to get OEWS data. 4. What are the different ways to obtain OEWS estimates from this website?” at https://www.bls.gov/oes/oes_ques.htm. The average hourly wage rate is calculated as the employment-weighted average of hourly mean wages for the occupation.

3 The benefit multiplier comes from BLS Employer Costs for Employee Compensation accessed by menu at http://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/srgate or directly at http://download.bls.gov/pub/time.series/cm/cm.data.0.Current. Insert the data series CMU2030000405000D and CMU2030000405000P, Private Industry Total benefits for Construction, extraction, farming, fishing, and forestry occupations, which is divided by 100 to convert to a decimal value. MSHA uses the latest 4-quarter moving average to determine what percent of total loaded wages are benefits. MSHA computes the benefit multiplier with a number of detailed calculations, but it may be approximated with the formula 1 + (benefit percentage / (1-benefit percentage)).

4 Wage inflation is the change in Series ID: CIS2020000405000I; Seasonally adjusted; Series Title: Wages and salaries for Private industry workers in Construction, extraction, farming, fishing, and forestry occupations, Index. (https://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/srgate; Inflation Multiplier = (Current Quarter Cost Index Value / OEWS Wage Base Quarter Index Value).

5 MSHA uses an overhead rate of 1 percent. The mining environment generally involves very little overhead, especially costs associated with workers engaged in administrative or clerical tasks.

29