MSHA: Electromagnetic Interference from PAPRs Can Affect Proximity Detection Systems

A new safety alert published by MSHA describes how miners should position their proximity detection systems when wearing powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs). According to the agency, electromagnetic interference from PAPRs can cause proximity detection systems to fail, particularly if a proximity detection device is worn too close to a PAPR’s battery or motor/blower. MSHA states that miners must maintain at least six inches of separation between proximity detection systems and the respirators’ batteries and motor/blowers to prevent such interference. Two illustrations included in the safety alert are intended to show miners where proximity detection systems should and should not be worn when using either a belt-worn or neck-supported PAPR.

Since 2024, MSHA has granted petitions for modification allowing 33 mines to use PAPRs. Under the agency’s petition for modification process, mines can request to modify the requirements of an existing safety standard such that the purpose of the standard is fulfilled by alternative means. MSHA grants petitions for modifications it determines will provide at least the same level of protection for miners as its existing standards. Petitions for modification and MSHA’s decisions can be found on the agency’s website.

The safety alert is also available from the MSHA website.