Current Status

As of February 27, 2009, MSHA is processing 38 approval applications for communications and tracking technology. Since the beginning of 2006, we have issued 72 new or revised approvals for communications and tracking products. Approvals granted in February include the Active Control Technology Active Mine Wireless Mesh Communications and Tracking System.

We have observed 58 tests or demonstrations of 31 different communications and/or tracking systems at various mine sites. We have met with representatives from 67 communications and tracking system companies. To date, we have had discussions with various vendors regarding 182 different proposals for development of mine communications and tracking systems.

We are providing presentations on the new communications and tracking program policy letter (http://www.msha.gov/regs/complian/pp... ) at a variety of venues including district stakeholder meetings and the West Virginia Mining Symposium.

http://www.msha.gov/techsupp/commoan...