By: Ed Stuber
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has temporarily stayed the enforcement of its new silica exposure standard for metal and nonmetal mines. The delay was formally published in the Federal Register on April 6, 2026.
This stay now aligns with the existing stay for coal mines, and both standards are currently awaiting judicial review.
Although there is a stay of the new rule, it is anticipated that the new 8-hour time-weighted average of 50 μg/m³ and the new action level of 25 μg/m³ will remain unchanged.
Why This Matters
Silica dust is a serious health hazard in mining. MSHA’s rule was designed to tighten exposure limits and protect miners from disease associated with long-term exposure.
While the new standard is on hold, the focus on protecting miners from silica exposure remains as important as ever.
A Refresher on the MSHA Silica Standard
MSHA’s current rule, which went into effect on June 17, 2024, adds more stringent requirements for protecting workers from respirable crystalline silica, including:
- Lower PEL: 50 µg/m³ for an 8-hour TWA
- New action level: 25 µg/m³ for an 8-hour TWA
- Mandatory silica surveys as outlined in 30 CFR 56.5002
Staying in compliance requires accurate and reliable sampling, and that’s where we can help.
Simplify Compliance with the SGS MSHA Kit
Our all-in-one MSHA Compliance Kit includes everything you need for reliable silica sampling:
- Personal sampling pumps
- High-quality media
- Cyclones or easy-to-use PPIs
- Calibration units
Our 5-day turnaround, secure online access, and expert CIH support make compliance effortless, so you can stay focused on safety.
Be Ready with SGS
As the industry awaits implementation of the new standards, now is an ideal time to conduct testing and identify any changes or adjustments needed to achieve compliance. Our team is ready to support you and help you prepare with confidence.
For help navigating the updated MSHA silica standard, or to get started with our compliance kit, contact SGS at 888-432-5227 or reach out via our IHLive Chat, available weekdays from 8 AM to 8 PM EST.