Petitions for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards, 47422-47437 [2016-17173]
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Regulation Affected: 30 CFR
75.1002(a) (Installation of electric
equipment and conductors;
permissibility).
Modification Request: The petitioner
requests a modification of the existing
standard to permit the use of lowvoltage or battery-powered
nonpermissible electronic testing and
diagnostic equipment within 150 feet of
pillar workings or longwall faces. The
petitioner states that:
(1) The use of nonpermissible lowvoltage or battery-powered electronic
testing and diagnostic equipment will
be limited to: Laptop computers;
oscilloscopes; vibration analysis
machines; cable fault detectors; point
temperature probes; infrared
temperature devices; insulation testers
(meggers); voltage, current and power
measurement devices and recorders;
pressure and flow measurement devices;
signal analyzer devices; ultrasonic
thickness gauges; electronic components
testers; and electronic tachometers.
Other testing and diagnostic equipment
may be used if approved in advance by
MSHA’s District Manager.
(2) Nonpermissible electronic testing
and diagnostic equipment will be used
only when equivalent permissible
equipment does not exist.
(3) All other testing and diagnostic
equipment used within 150 feet of pillar
workings or longwall faces will be
permissible.
(4) All nonpermissible low-voltage or
battery-powered nonpermissible
electronic testing and diagnostic
equipment used within 150 feet of pillar
workings will be examined by a
qualified person as defined in 30 CFR
75.153 prior to use to ensure the
equipment is being maintained in a safe
operating condition. These examination
results will be recorded in the weekly
examination electrical equipment book
and made available to MSHA on
request.
(5) A qualified person as defined in 30
CFR 75.151 will continuously monitor
for methane immediately before and
during the use of nonpermissible
electronic testing and diagnostic
equipment within 150 feet of pillar
workings.
(6) Nonpermissible electronic testing
and diagnostic equipment will not be
used if methane is detected in
concentrations at or above one percent.
When 1.0 percent or more of methane is
detected while the nonpermissible
electronic equipment is being used, the
equipment will be deenergized
immediately and the nonpermissible
electronic equipment will be withdrawn
to outby 150 feet from pillar workings.
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(7) All hand-held methane detectors
will be MSHA-approved and
maintained in permissible and proper
operating condition as required by 30
CFR 75.320.
(8) Except for time necessary to
troubleshoot under actual mining
conditions, coal production on the
section will cease. However, coal may
remain in the panline to test and
diagnose the equipment under load.
(9) Nonpermissible electronic testing
and diagnostic equipment will not be
used to test equipment when float coal
dust is in suspension.
(10) All electronic testing and
diagnostic equipment will be used in
accordance with the safe use procedures
recommended by the manufacturer.
(11) Qualified personnel who use
electronic testing and diagnostic
equipment will be properly trained to
recognize the hazards and limitations
associated with use of the equipment.
(12) The nonpermissible low-voltage
or battery-powered nonpermissible
electronic testing and diagnostic
equipment will not be put into service
until MSHA has inspected the
equipment and determined that it is in
compliance with all the terms and
conditions in this petition. The
petitioner will notify MSHA before
additional nonpermissible electronic
testing and diagnostic equipment is put
into service within 150 feet of pillar
workings to provide time for MSHA to
inspect the equipment before initial use.
(13) Cables supplying power to lowvoltage testing and diagnostic
equipment will be continuous in length
or provided with ‘‘twist lock’’
connectors when used with 150 feet of
pillar workings.
The petitioner asserts that application
of the existing standard will result in a
diminution of safety to the miners and
that the proposed alternative method
will at all times guarantee no less than
the same measure of protection afforded
by the existing standard.
Sheila McConnell,
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations,
and Variances.
[FR Doc. 2016–17174 Filed 7–20–16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4520–43–P
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Petitions for Modification of
Application of Existing Mandatory
Safety Standards
Mine Safety and Health
Administration, Labor.
ACTION: Notice.
AGENCY:
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Section 101(c) of the Federal
Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 and
Title 30 of the Code of Federal
Regulations Part 44 govern the
application, processing, and disposition
of petitions for modification. This notice
is a summary of petitions for
modification submitted to the Mine
Safety and Health Administration
(MSHA) by the parties listed below.
DATES: All comments on the petitions
must be received by MSHA’s Office of
Standards, Regulations, and Variances
on or before August 22, 2016.
ADDRESSES: You may submit your
comments, identified by ‘‘docket
number’’ on the subject line, by any of
the following methods:
1. Electronic Mail: zzMSHAcomments@dol.gov. Include the docket
number of the petition in the subject
line of the message.
2. Facsimile: 202–693–9441.
3. Regular Mail or Hand Delivery:
MSHA, Office of Standards,
Regulations, and Variances, 201 12th
Street South, Suite 4E401, Arlington,
Virginia 22202–5452, Attention: Sheila
McConnell, Director, Office of
Standards, Regulations, and Variances.
Persons delivering documents are
required to check in at the receptionist’s
desk in Suite 4E401. Individuals may
inspect copies of the petitions and
comments during normal business
hours at the address listed above.
MSHA will consider only comments
postmarked by the U.S. Postal Service or
proof of delivery from another delivery
service such as UPS or Federal Express
on or before the deadline for comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Barbara Barron, Office of Standards,
Regulations, and Variances at 202–693–
9447 (Voice), barron.barbara@dol.gov
(Email), or 202–693–9441 (Facsimile).
[These are not toll-free numbers.]
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
I. Background
Section 101(c) of the Federal Mine
Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine
Act) allows the mine operator or
representative of miners to file a
petition to modify the application of any
mandatory safety standard to a coal or
other mine if the Secretary of Labor
determines that:
1. An alternative method of achieving
the result of such standard exists which
will at all times guarantee no less than
the same measure of protection afforded
the miners of such mine by such
standard; or
2. That the application of such
standard to such mine will result in a
diminution of safety to the miners in
such mine.
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In addition, the regulations at 30 CFR
44.10 and 44.11 establish the
requirements and procedures for filing
petitions for modification.
II. Petitions for Modification
Docket Number: M–2016–015–C.
Petitioner: Canyon Fuel Company,
LLC, HC 35, Box 380, Helper, Utah
84526.
Mine: Skyline mine, MSHA I.D. No.
42–01566, located in Carbon County,
Utah.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR
75.380(d)(4) (Escapeways; bituminous
and lignite mines).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests a modification of the
existing standard to permit an
escapeway to be maintained at least 4
feet wide where the route of travel
passes by conveyor belt components.
The petitioner states that:
(1) The standard 6-foot wide walkway
specified in 30 CFR 75.380(d)(4) already
allows for exceptions to the 6-foot
walkway, including where
supplemental support is installed and
where the escapeways pass through
doors. When these two situations arise,
the standard 6-foot walkway is reduced
to 4 feet. Conveyor belt components
such as belt drives, belt storage units
and belt transfers may also impinge
upon the standard 6-foot walkway. The
petitioner proposes to:
(a) Demonstrate that four miners
carrying a stretcher could quickly
traverse an area at the widths proposed
in this petition.
(b) Identify the portions of the
alternate escapeway where this petition
is in effect on the mine map required by
30 CFR 75.372.
(c) Maintain the full 4-foot width of
the escapeway in areas affected by this
petition free of accumulations of mud,
water, and other hazards at all times.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
times provide no less than the same
measure of protection afford by the
existing standard.
Docket Number: M–2016–016–C.
Petitioner: Marshall County Coal
Company, 1 Bridge Street, Monongah,
West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Marshall County Mine, MSHA
I.D. No. 46–01437, located in Marshall
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700
(Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be
amended for the McElroy Coal
Company, McElroy Mine, Docket
Number M–1988–199–C (now known as
the Marshall County Coal Company,
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Marshall County Mine, MSHA I.D. No.
46–01437). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum
wells in the Marshall County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to
1930 when no standards for drilling and
plugging existed. Many wells were
abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Energy
Research and Development
Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal
Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively
prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining
operations and allow additional safety
and operational benefits that are not
possible under § 75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and
maintaining barriers around oil and gas
wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the
surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through
the petitioner’s successful well-plugging
program. Since the inception of the
well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells
have been effectively plugged and
successfully been mined through or
around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging
oil and gas wells approved in the
previously granted petition, the
petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven
technological advances not available for
plugging oil and gas wells when the
previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of
compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety
barrier of 300 feet in diameter (150 feet
between any mined area and a well)
around all oil and gas wells (defined to
include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells,
including water injection wells) until
approval to proceed with mining has
been obtained from the District Manager
(DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas
wells, the petitioner will provide to the
DM a declaration stating that all
mandatory procedures for cleaning out,
preparing, and plugging each gas or oil
well have been completed. The
declaration will be accompanied by logs
described in this petition and any other
records that the DM may request. The
DM will review the declaration, the logs
and any other records that have been
requested, and may inspect the well,
and determine if the operator has
complied with the procedures for
cleaning out, preparing and plugging
each well. If the DM determines that the
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procedures have been complied with
and provides an approval, the operator
may then mine within the safety barrier
of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures when cleaning out
and preparing oil and gas wells prior to
plugging or replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less
than 4,000 feet, the operator will
completely clean out the well from the
surface to at least 200 feet below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
unless the DM requires cleaning to a
greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well. If the total
depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater,
the operator will completely clean out
the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire
diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for a
bridge plug. The DM may approve the
use of a down-hole camera survey in
lieu of down-hole logs. In addition, the
operator will maintain a journal
describing: The depth and nature of
each material encountered; bit size and
type used to drill each portion of the
hole; length and type of each material
used to plug the well; the length of
casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped,
or left in place; any sections where
casing was cut or milled; and other
pertinent information concerning
cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices,
work-orders, and other records relating
to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the
well or, if it is not possible to remove
all of the casing, fill the annulus
between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with
expanding cement (minimum 0.5
percent expansion on setting) and
ensure that these areas contain no voids.
If the casing cannot be removed, the
operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate
or rip it at least every 50 feet from at
least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the uppermost
mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DM that all annuli in the well are
already adequately sealed with cement
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using a casing bond log, then the
operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that
particular well. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizon(s), the operator will
perforate or rip any casing that remains
and fill with expanding cement and
keep an acceptable casing bond log for
each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in
the well if a cleaned-out well emits
excessive amounts of gas. Place the
mechanical bridge plug in a competent
stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the
uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a
greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well.
(The operator will provide the DM with
all information it possesses concerning
the geologic nature of the strata and the
pressure of the well.) If it is not possible
to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge
plugs to isolate the hydrocarbonproducing stratum from the expanding
cement plug, if the upper-most
hydrocarbon-producing stratum is
within 300 feet of the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the
operator will place a minimum of 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
distance base on what is required due to
the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil or gas wells to the
surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry
down the well to form a plug that runs
from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam (or lower if required by the
DM due to the geological strata, or due
to pressure within the well) to the
surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per
square inch. Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above
the top of the uppermost mineable coal
seam (or higher if required by the DM
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well) to the surface.
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(2) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute
(API) well number either engraved or
welded on the casing. When the hole
cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the
operator will use high-resolution GPS
coordinates (one-half meter resolution)
to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil and gas wells for
subsequent use as degasification
boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping expanding cement slurry
down the tubing to provide at least 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
depth due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will place the expanding
cement in the well under a pressure of
at least 200 pounds per square inch, and
extend the top of the expanding cement
at least 100 feet above the top of the coal
seam being mined, unless the DM
requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing
into the bedrock of the upper portion of
the degasification well to protect it. The
remainder of this well may be cased or
uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification
casing with a wellhead, equipped as
required by the DM in the approved
ventilation plan. Such equipment may
include check valves, shut-in valves,
sampling ports, flame arrestor
equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification
well will be addressed in the approved
ventilation plan. This may include
periodic tests of methane levels and
limits on the minimum methane
concentrations that may be extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that
is degassed by a well is sealed or the
coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas
holes using the following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the
drill hole or, if not possible, to at least
100 feet above the coal seam being
mined. Remove any blockage to ensure
that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the
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tubing until the well is filled to the
surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or
welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for preparing and
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells
that cannot be completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel
to the well to a depth of at least 200 feet
(or 400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) below the lowest
mineable coal seam, unless the DM
requires a greater depth due to the
geological strata, or due to pressures
within the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain
in the well using a geophysical sensing
device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill
into the well from the parallel hole and
perforate or rip all casings at intervals
of at least 5 feet from 10 feet below the
coal seam to 10 feet above the coal
seam. Beyond that distance, perforate or
rip all casings at least every 50 feet from
at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the seam being
mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will fill the annulus between
the casings and between the casings and
the well wall with expanding cement
(minimum of 0.5% expansion on
setting), and ensure that these areas
contain no voids. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizons, rip or perforate any
casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will
provide an acceptable casing bond log
for each casing and tubing used in lieu
of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic
fracturing technique to intercept the
original well where there is insufficient
casing in the well to allow use of the
method outlined in paragraph (d)(3)
above. Fracture the original well in at
least six places from at least 200 feet
(400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at
least 50 feet above the seam being
mined at intervals to be agreed on by the
petitioner and the DM after considering
the geological strata and the pressure
within the well. The operator will pump
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expanding cement into the fractured
well in sufficient quantities and in a
manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for the
bridge plug. The operator will maintain
a journal describing: The depth and
nature of each material encountered; bit
size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; the length and type of each
material used to plug the well; length of
casing(s) removed, perforated, ripped, or
left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well.
Invoices, work-orders, and other records
relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug
the open portions of both holes from the
bottom to the surface with Portland
cement or a lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures after approval has
been granted by the DM to mine through
a plugged or replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged
well, notify the DM or designee,
representative of the miners, and the
appropriate State agency in sufficient
time for them to have a representative
present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last
open crosscut near the place to be
mined to ensure intersection of the well
when mining through wells using
continuous mining equipment. The
drivage spads will not be more than 50
feet from the well. Install drivage spads
on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50
feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage
spads will also be installed in the
headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including
fire extinguishers, rock dust, and
sufficient fire hose to reach the working
face area of the mine-through (when
either the conventional or continuous
mining method is used), will be
available and operable during each well
mine-through. The operator will locate
the fire hose in the last open crosscut of
the entry or room and maintain the
water line to the belt conveyor tailpiece
along with a sufficient amount of fire
hose to reach the farthest point of
penetration on the section.
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(4) Keep available at the last open
crosscut, a supply of roof support and
ventilation materials sufficient to
ventilate and support around the well
on cut-through. In addition, keep
emergency plugs and suitable sealing
materials will be available in the
immediate area of the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining
through the well, all equipment will be
serviced and checked for permissibility.
Water sprays, water pressures and water
flow rates used for dust and spark
suppression will be examined and any
deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on
the longwall, continuous mining
machine, or cutting machine and
loading machine on the shift prior to
mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test
methane levels with a hand-held
methane detector at least every 10
minutes from the time that mining with
the continuous mining machine is
within 30 feet of the well until the well
is intersected and immediately prior to
mining through it. No individual is
allowed on the return side during the
actual cutting process until the minethrough has been completed and the
area examined and declared safe. All
workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the
shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and apply rock dust on the
roof, rib, and floor to within 20 feet of
the face when mining through the well
when using continuous or conventional
mining methods. Conduct rock dusting
on longwall sections on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and
tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or
conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied
on the roof, rib, and floor to within 20
feet of the face when mining through the
well. On longwall sections, rock dusting
will be conducted and place on the roof,
rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when
the well is intersected and thoroughly
examine the place and determine it is
safe before resuming mining. After a
well has been intersected and the
working place determined safe, mining
will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation
around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at
the coal seam level, the use of torches
should not be necessary. In rare
instances, torches may be used for
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inadequately or inaccurately cut or
milled casings. No open flame is
permitted in the area until adequate
ventilation has been established around
the wellbore and methane levels are less
than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be
exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick
layer of rock dust to the roof, face, floor,
ribs, and any exposed coal within 20
feet of the casing prior to any use of
torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be
located on the working section and will
be used to expose and examine cased
wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in
the area of the cut-through operation
except those actually engaged in the
mining operation, including company
personnel, representative of the miners,
personnel from MSHA, and personnel
from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all
personnel in the mine to the planned
intersection of the well prior to their
going underground if the planned
intersection is to occur during their
shift. This warning will be repeated for
all shifts until the well has been mined
through.
(15) A certified official will directly
supervise the cut-through operation and
only the certified official in charge will
issue instructions concerning the minethrough operation.
(16) The responsible person required
in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be responsible
for well intersection emergencies. The
responsible person will review the well
intersection procedures prior to any
planned intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved part
48 training plan to the DM. The
proposed revisions will include initial
and refresher training regarding
compliance with the terms and
conditions of this petition for
modification. The operator will provide
all miners involved in the mine-through
of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for
modification prior to mining within 150
feet of the next well to be mined
through.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved
mine emergency evacuation and
firefighting plan required in 30 CFR
75.1501. The petitioner will revise the
plans to include the hazards and
evacuation procedures to be used for
well intersections. All underground
miners will be trained in this revised
plan within 30 days of the DM’s
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
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Such training may be done in a weekly
safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
times guarantee no less than the same
measure or protection afforded by the
existing standard.
Docket Number: M–2016–017–C.
Petitioner: The Marion County Coal
Company, 1 Bridge Street, Monongah,
West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Marion County Mine, MSHA
I.D. No. 46–01433, located in Marion
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700
(Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be
amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Loveridge Mine, Docket
Number M–1990–156–C (now known as
the Marion County Coal Company,
Marion County Mine, MSHA I.D. No.
46–01433). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum
wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to
1930 when no standards for drilling and
plugging existed. Many wells were
abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Energy
Research and Development
Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal
Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively
prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining
operations and allow additional safety
and operational benefits that are not
possible under § 75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and
maintaining barriers around oil and gas
wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the
surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through
the petitioner’s successful well-plugging
program. Since the inception of the
well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells
have been effectively plugged and
successfully been mined through or
around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging
oil and gas wells approved in the
previously granted petition, the
petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven
technological advances not available for
plugging oil and gas wells when the
previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of
compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety
barrier of 300 feet in diameter (150 feet
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between any mined area and a well)
around all oil and gas wells (defined to
include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells,
including water injection wells) until
approval to proceed with mining has
been obtained from the District Manager
(DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas
wells, the petitioner will provide to the
DM a declaration stating that all
mandatory procedures for cleaning out,
preparing, and plugging each gas or oil
well have been completed. The
declaration will be accompanied by logs
described in this petition and any other
records that the DM may request. The
DM will review the declaration, the logs
and any other records that have been
requested, and may inspect the well,
and will then determine if the operator
has complied with the procedures for
cleaning out, preparing and plugging
each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with
and provides an approval, the operator
may then mine within the safety barrier
of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures when cleaning out
and preparing oil and gas wells prior to
plugging or replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less
than 4,000 feet, the operator will
completely clean out the well from the
surface to at least 200 feet below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
unless the DM requires cleaning to a
greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well. If the total
depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater,
the operator will completely clean out
the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire
diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for a
bridge plug. The DM may approve the
use of a down-hole camera survey in
lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The
depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to
drill each portion of the hole; length and
type of each material used to plug the
well; the length of casing(s) removed,
perforated or ripped, or left in place;
any sections where casing was cut or
milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the
well. Invoices, work-orders, and other
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records relating to all work on the well
will be maintained as part of the journal
and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the
well or, if it is not possible to remove
all of the casing, fill the annulus
between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with
expanding cement (minimum 0.5
percent expansion on setting) and
ensure that these areas contain no voids.
If the casing cannot be removed, the
operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate
or rip it at least every 50 feet from at
least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the uppermost
mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DM that all annuli in the well are
already adequately sealed with cement
using a casing bond log, then the
operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that
particular well. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizon(s), the operator will
perforate or rip any casing that remains
and fill with expanding cement and
keep an acceptable casing bond log for
each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in
the well if a cleaned-out well emits
excessive amounts of gas. Place the
mechanical bridge plug in a competent
stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the
uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a
greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well.
(The operator will provide the DM with
all information it possesses concerning
the geologic nature of the strata and the
pressure of the well.) If it is not possible
to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge
plugs to isolate the hydrocarbonproducing stratum from the expanding
cement plug, if the upper-most
hydrocarbon-producing stratum is
within 300 feet of the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the
operator will place a minimum of 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
distance base on what is required due to
the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well.
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b. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil or gas wells to the
surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry
down the well to form a plug that runs
from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam (or lower if required by the
DM due to the geological strata, or due
to pressure within the well) to the
surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per
square inch. Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above
the top of the uppermost mineable coal
seam (or higher if required by the DM
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well) to the surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute
(API) well number either engraved or
welded on the casing. When the hole
cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the
operator will use high-resolution GPS
coordinates (one-half meter resolution)
to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil and gas wells for
subsequent use as degasification
boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping expanding cement slurry
down the tubing to provide at least 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
depth due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will place the expanding
cement in the well under a pressure of
at least 200 pounds per square inch and
extend the top of the expanding cement
at least 100 feet above the top of the coal
seam being mined, unless the DM
requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing
into the bedrock of the upper portion of
the degasification well to protect it. The
remainder of this well may be cased or
uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification
casing with a wellhead, equipped as
required by the DM in the approved
ventilation plan. Such equipment may
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include check valves, shut-in valves,
sampling ports, flame arrestor
equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification
well will be addressed in the approved
ventilation plan. This may include
periodic tests of methane levels and
limits on the minimum methane
concentrations that may be extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that
is degassed by a well is sealed or the
coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas
holes using the following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the
drill hole or, if not possible, to at least
100 feet above the coal seam being
mined. Remove any blockage to ensure
that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the
tubing until the well is filled to the
surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or
welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for preparing and
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells
that cannot be completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel
to the well to a depth of at least 200 feet
(or 400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) below the lowest
mineable coal seam, unless the DM
requires a greater depth due to the
geological strata, or due to pressures
within the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain
in the well using a geophysical sensing
device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill
into the well from the parallel hole and
perforate or rip all casings at intervals
of at least 5 feet from 10 feet below the
coal seam to 10 feet above the coal
seam. Beyond that distance, perforate or
rip all casings at least every 50 feet from
at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the seam being
mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will fill the annulus between
the casings and between the casings and
the well wall with expanding cement
(minimum of 0.5% expansion on
setting), and ensure that these areas
contain no voids. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizons, rip or perforate any
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47427
casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will
provide an acceptable casing bond log
for each casing and tubing used in lieu
of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic
fracturing technique to intercept the
original well where there is sufficient
casing in the well to allow use of the
method outlined in paragraph (d)(3)
above. Fracture the original well in at
least six places from at least 200 feet
(400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at
least 50 feet above the seam being
mined at intervals to be agreed on by the
petitioner and the DM after considering
the geological strata and the pressure
within the well. The operator will pump
expanding cement into the fractured
well in sufficient quantities and in a
manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for the
bridge plug. The operator will maintain
a journal describing; the depth and
nature of each material encountered; bit
size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; the length and type of each
material used to plug the well; length of
casing(s) removed, perforated, ripped, or
left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well.
Invoices, work-orders, and other records
relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug
the open portions of both holes from the
bottom to the surface with Portland
cement or a lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures after approval has
been granted by the DM to mine through
a plugged or replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged
well, notify the DM or designee,
representative of the miners, and the
appropriate State agency in sufficient
time for them to have a representative
present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last
open crosscut near the place to be
mined to ensure intersection of the well
when mining through wells using
continuous mining equipment. The
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drivage spads will not be more than 50
feet from the well. Install drivage spads
on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50
feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage
spads will also be installed in the
headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including
fire extinguishers, rock dust, and
sufficient fire hose to reach the working
face area of the mine-through (when
either the conventional or continuous
mining method is used), will be
available and operable during each well
mine-through. The operator will locate
the fire hose in the last open crosscut of
the entry or room and maintain the
water line to the belt conveyor tailpiece
along with a sufficient amount of fire
hose to reach the farthest point of
penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open
crosscut, a supply of roof support and
ventilation materials sufficient to
ventilate and support around the well
on cut-through. In addition, keep
emergency plugs and suitable sealing
materials will be available in the
immediate area of the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining
through the well, all equipment will be
serviced and checked for permissibility.
Water sprays, water pressures and water
flow rates used for dust and spark
suppression will be examined and any
deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on
the longwall, continuous mining
machine, or cutting machine and
loading machine on the shift prior to
mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test
methane levels with a hand-held
methane detector at least every 10
minutes from the time that mining with
the continuous mining machine is
within 30 feet of the well until the well
is intersected and immediately prior to
mining through it. No individual is
allowed on the return side during the
actual cutting process until the minethrough has been completed and the
area examined and declared safe. All
workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the
shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and apply rock dust on the
roof, rib, and floor to within 20 feet of
the face when mining through the well
when using continuous or conventional
mining methods. Conduct rock dusting
on longwall sections on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and
tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or
conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of
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accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied
on the roof, rib, and floor to within 20
feet of the face when mining through the
well. On longwall sections, rock dusting
will be conducted and place on the roof,
rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when
the well is intersected and thoroughly
examine the place and determine it is
safe before resuming mining. After a
well has been intersected and the
working place determined safe, mining
will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation
around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at
the coal seam level, the use of torches
should not be necessary. In rare
instances, torches may be used for
inadequately or inaccurately cut or
milled casings. No open flame is
permitted in the area until adequate
ventilation has been established around
the wellbore and methane levels are less
than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be
exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick
layer of rock dust to the roof, face, floor,
ribs, and any exposed coal within 20
feet of the casing prior to any use of
torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be
located on the working section and will
be used to expose and examine cased
wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in
the area of the cut-through operation
except those actually engaged in the
mining operation, including company
personnel, representative of the miners,
personnel from MSHA, and personnel
from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all
personnel in the mine to the planned
intersection of the well prior to their
going underground if the planned
intersection is to occur during their
shift. This warning will be repeated for
all shifts until the well has been mined
through.
(15) A certified official will directly
supervise the cut-through operation and
only the certified official in charge will
issue instructions concerning the minethrough operation.
(16) The responsible person required
in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be responsible
for well intersection emergencies. The
responsible person will review the well
intersection procedures prior to any
planned intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved part
48 training plan to the DM. The
proposed revisions will include initial
and refresher training regarding
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compliance with the terms and
conditions of this petition for
modification. The operator will provide
all miners involved in the mine-through
of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for
modification prior to mining within 150
feet of the next well to be mined
through.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved
mine emergency evacuation and
firefighting plan required in 30 CFR
75.1501. The petitioner will revise the
plans to include the hazards and
evacuation procedures to be used for
well intersections. All underground
miners will be trained in this revised
plan within 30 days of the DM’s
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
Such training may be done in a weekly
safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
times guarantee no less than the same
measure or protection afforded by the
existing standard.
Docket Number: M–2016–018–C.
Petitioner: The Monongalia County
Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Monongalia County Mine,
MSHA I.D. No. 46–01968, located in
Monongalia County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700
(Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be
amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Blacksville No. 2 Mine,
Docket Number M–2001–014–C (now
known as the Monongalia County Coal
Company, Monongalia County Mine,
MSHA I.D. No. 46–01968). The
petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum
wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to
1930 when no standards for drilling and
plugging existed. Many wells were
abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Energy
Research and Development
Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal
Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively
prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining
operations and allow additional safety
and operational benefits that are not
possible under § 75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and
maintaining barriers around oil and gas
wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
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Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the
surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through
the petitioner’s successful well-plugging
program. Since the inception of the
well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells
have been effectively plugged and
successfully been mined through or
around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging
oil and gas wells approved in the
previously granted petition, the
petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven
technological advances not available for
plugging oil and gas wells when the
previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of
compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety
barrier of 300 feet in diameter (150 feet
between any mined area and a well)
around all oil and gas wells (defined to
include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells,
including water injection wells) until
approval to proceed with mining has
been obtained from the District Manager
(DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas
wells, the petitioner will provide to the
DM a declaration stating that all
mandatory procedures for cleaning out,
preparing, and plugging each gas or oil
well have been completed. The
declaration will be accompanied by logs
described in this petition and any other
records that the DM may request. The
DM will review the declaration, the logs
and any other records that have been
requested, and may inspect the well,
and will then determine if the operator
has complied with the procedures for
cleaning out, preparing and plugging
each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with
and provides an approval, the operator
may then mine within the safety barrier
of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures when cleaning out
and preparing oil and gas wells prior to
plugging or replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less
than 4,000 feet, the operator will
completely clean out the well from the
surface to at least 200 feet below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
unless the DM requires cleaning to a
greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well. If the total
depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater,
the operator will completely clean out
the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. The operator will
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remove all material from the entire
diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for a
bridge plug. The DM may approve the
use of a down-hole camera survey in
lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The
depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to
drill each portion of the hole; length and
type of each material used to plug the
well; The length of casing(s) removed,
perforated or ripped, or left in place;
any sections where casing was cut or
milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the
well. Invoices, work-orders, and other
records relating to all work on the well
will be maintained as part of the journal
and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the
well or, if it is not possible to remove
all of the casing, fill the annulus
between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with
expanding cement (minimum 0.5
percent expansion on setting) and
ensure that these areas contain no voids.
If the casing cannot be removed, the
operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate
or rip it at least every 50 feet from at
least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the uppermost
mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DM that all annuli in the well are
already adequately sealed with cement
using a casing bond log, then the
operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that
particular well. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizon(s), the operator will
perforate or rip any casing that remains
and fill with expanding cement and
keep an acceptable casing bond log for
each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in
the well if a cleaned-out well emits
excessive amounts of gas. Place the
mechanical bridge plug in a competent
stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the
uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a
greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or
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47429
due to the pressure within the well.
(The operator will provide the DM with
all information it possesses concerning
the geologic nature of the strata and the
pressure of the well.) If it is not possible
to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge
plugs to isolate the hydrocarbonproducing stratum from the expanding
cement plug, if the upper-most
hydrocarbon-producing stratum is
within 300 feet of the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the
operator will place a minimum of 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
distance base on what is required due to
the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil or gas wells to the
surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry
down the well to form a plug that runs
from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam (or lower if required by the
DM due to the geological strata, or due
to pressure within the well) to the
surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per
square inch. Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above
the top of the uppermost mineable coal
seam (or higher if required by the DM
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well) to the surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute
(API) well number either engraved or
welded on the casing. When the hole
cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the
operator will use high-resolution GPS
coordinates (one-half meter resolution)
to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil and gas wells for
subsequent use as degasification
boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping expanding cement slurry
down the tubing to provide at least 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
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cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
depth due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will place the expanding
cement in the well under a pressure of
at least 200 pounds per square inch and
extend the top of the expanding cement
at least 100 feet above the top of the coal
seam being mined, unless the DM
requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing
into the bedrock of the upper portion of
the degasification well to protect it. The
remainder of this well may be cased or
uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification
casing with a wellhead, equipped as
required by the DM in the approved
ventilation plan. Such equipment may
include check valves, shut-in valves,
sampling ports, flame arrestor
equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification
well will be addressed in the approved
ventilation plan. This may include
periodic tests of methane levels and
limits on the minimum methane
concentrations that may be extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that
is degassed by a well is sealed or the
coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas
holes using the following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the
drill hole or, if not possible, to at least
100 feet above the coal seam being
mined. Remove any blockage to ensure
that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the
tubing until the well is filled to the
surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or
welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for preparing and
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells
that cannot be completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel
to the well to a depth of at least 200 feet
(or 400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) below the lowest
mineable coal seam, unless the DM
requires a greater depth due to the
geological strata, or due to pressures
within the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain
in the well using a geophysical sensing
device.
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(3) If the well contains casings, drill
into the well from the parallel hole and
perforate or rip all casings at intervals
of at least 5 feet from 10 feet below the
coal seam to 10 feet above the coal
seam. Beyond that distance, perforate or
rip all casings at least every 50 feet from
at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the seam being
mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will fill the annulus between
the casings and between the casings and
the well wall with expanding cement
(minimum of 0.5% expansion on
setting), and ensure that these areas
contain no voids. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizons, rip or perforate any
casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will
provide an acceptable casing bond log
for each casing and tubing used in lieu
of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic
fracturing technique to intercept the
original well where there is sufficient
casing in the well to allow use of the
method outlined in paragraph (d)(3)
above. Fracture the original well in at
least six places from at least 200 feet
(400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at
least 50 feet above the seam being
mined at intervals to be agreed on by the
petitioner and the DM after considering
the geological strata and the pressure
within the well. The operator will pump
expanding cement into the fractured
well in sufficient quantities and in a
manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for the
bridge plug. The operator will maintain
a journal describing; the depth and
nature of each material encountered; bit
size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; the length and type of each
material used to plug the well; length of
casing(s) removed, perforated, ripped, or
left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well.
Invoices, work-orders, and other records
relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug
the open portions of both holes from the
bottom to the surface with Portland
cement or a lightweight cement mixture.
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(7) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures after approval has
been granted by the DM to mine through
a plugged or replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged
well, notify the DM or designee,
representative of the miners, and the
appropriate State agency in sufficient
time for them to have a representative
present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last
open crosscut near the place to be
mined to ensure intersection of the well
when mining through wells using
continuous mining equipment. The
drivage spads will not be more than 50
feet from the well. Install drivage spads
on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50
feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage
spads will also be installed in the
headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including
fire extinguishers, rock dust, and
sufficient fire hose to reach the working
face area of the mine-through (when
either the conventional or continuous
mining method is used), will be
available and operable during each well
mine-through. The operator will locate
the fire hose in the last open crosscut of
the entry or room and maintain the
water line to the belt conveyor tailpiece
along with a sufficient amount of fire
hose to reach the farthest point of
penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open
crosscut, a supply of roof support and
ventilation materials sufficient to
ventilate and support around the well
on cut-through. In addition, keep
emergency plugs and suitable sealing
materials will be available in the
immediate area of the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining
through the well, all equipment will be
serviced and checked for permissibility.
Water sprays, water pressures and water
flow rates used for dust and spark
suppression will be examined and any
deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on
the longwall, continuous mining
machine, or cutting machine and
loading machine on the shift prior to
mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test
methane levels with a hand-held
methane detector at least every 10
minutes from the time that mining with
the continuous mining machine is
within 30 feet of the well until the well
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is intersected and immediately prior to
mining through it. No individual is
allowed on the return side during the
actual cutting process until the minethrough has been completed and the
area examined and declared safe. All
workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the
shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and apply rock dust on the
roof, rib, and floor to within 20 feet of
the face when mining through the well
when using continuous or conventional
mining methods. Conduct rock dusting
on longwall sections on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and
tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or
conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied
on the roof, rib, and floor to within 20
feet of the face when mining through the
well. On longwall sections, rock dusting
will be conducted and place on the roof,
rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when
the well is intersected and thoroughly
examine the place and determine it is
safe before resuming mining. After a
well has been intersected and the
working place determined safe, mining
will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation
around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at
the coal seam level, the use of torches
should not be necessary. In rare
instances, torches may be used for
inadequately or inaccurately cut or
milled casings. No open flame is
permitted in the area until adequate
ventilation has been established around
the wellbore and methane levels are less
than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be
exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick
layer of rock dust to the roof, face, floor,
ribs, and any exposed coal within 20
feet of the casing prior to any use of
torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be
located on the working section and will
be used to expose and examine cased
wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in
the area of the cut-through operation
except those actually engaged in the
mining operation, including company
personnel, representative of the miners,
personnel from MSHA, and personnel
from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all
personnel in the mine to the planned
intersection of the well prior to their
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going underground if the planned
intersection is to occur during their
shift. This warning will be repeated for
all shifts until the well has been mined
through.
(15) A certified official will directly
supervise the cut-through operation and
only the certified official in charge will
issue instructions concerning the minethrough operation.
(16) The responsible person required
in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be responsible
for well intersection emergencies. The
responsible person will review the well
intersection procedures prior to any
planned intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved part
48 training plan to the DM. The
proposed revisions will include initial
and refresher training regarding
compliance with the terms and
conditions of this petition for
modification. The operator will provide
all miners involved in the mine-through
of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for
modification prior to mining within 150
feet of the next well to be mined
through.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved
mine emergency evacuation and
firefighting plan required in 30 CFR
75.1501. The petitioner will revise the
plans to include the hazards and
evacuation procedures to be used for
well intersections. All underground
miners will be trained in this revised
plan within 30 days of the DM’s
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
Such training may be done in a weekly
safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
times guarantee no less than the same
measure or protection afforded by the
existing standard.
Docket Number: M–2016–019–C.
Petitioner: The Harrison County Coal
Company, 1 Bridge Street, Monongah,
West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Harrison County Mine, MSHA
I.D. No. 46–01318, located in Marion
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700
(Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be
amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Robinson Run Mine, Docket
Number M–2001–015–C (now known as
the Harrison County Coal Company,
Harrison County Mine, MSHA I.D. No.
46–01318). The petitioner states that:
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47431
(1) The large majority of petroleum
wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to
1930 when no standards for drilling and
plugging existed. Many wells were
abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Energy
Research and Development
Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal
Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively
prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining
operations and allow additional safety
and operational benefits that are not
possible under § 75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and
maintaining barriers around oil and gas
wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the
surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through
the petitioner’s successful well-plugging
program. Since the inception of the
well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells
have been effectively plugged and
successfully been mined through or
around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging
oil and gas wells approved in the
previously granted petition, the
petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven
technological advances not available for
plugging oil and gas wells when the
previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of
compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety
barrier of 300 feet in diameter (150 feet
between any mined area and a well)
around all oil and gas wells (defined to
include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells,
including water injection wells) until
approval to proceed with mining has
been obtained from the District Manager
(DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas
wells, the petitioner will provide to the
DM a declaration stating that all
mandatory procedures for cleaning out,
preparing, and plugging each gas or oil
well have been completed. The
declaration will be accompanied by logs
described in this petition and any other
records that the DM may request. The
DM will review the declaration, the logs
and any other records that have been
requested, and may inspect the well,
and will then determine if the operator
has complied with the procedures for
cleaning out, preparing and plugging
each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with
and provides an approval, the operator
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may then mine within the safety barrier
of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures when cleaning out
and preparing oil and gas wells prior to
plugging or replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less
than 4,000 feet, the operator will
completely clean out the well from the
surface to at least 200 feet below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
unless the DM requires cleaning to a
greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well. If the total
depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater,
the operator will completely clean out
the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire
diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for a
bridge plug. The DM may approve the
use of a down-hole camera survey in
lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The
depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to
drill each portion of the hole; length and
type of each material used to plug the
well; the length of casing(s) removed,
perforated or ripped, or left in place;
any sections where casing was cut or
milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the
well. Invoices, work-orders, and other
records relating to all work on the well
will be maintained as part of the journal
and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the
well or, if it is not possible to remove
all of the casing, fill the annulus
between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with
expanding cement (minimum 0.5
percent expansion on setting) and
ensure that these areas contain no voids.
If the casing cannot be removed, the
operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate
or rip it at least every 50 feet from at
least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the uppermost
mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DM that all annuli in the well are
already adequately sealed with cement
using a casing bond log, then the
operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that
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particular well. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizon(s), the operator will
perforate or rip any casing that remains
and fill with expanding cement and
keep an acceptable casing bond log for
each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in
the well if a cleaned-out well emits
excessive amounts of gas. Place the
mechanical bridge plug in a competent
stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the
uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a
greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well.
(The operator will provide the DM with
all information it possesses concerning
the geologic nature of the strata and the
pressure of the well.) If it is not possible
to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge
plugs to isolate the hydrocarbonproducing stratum from the expanding
cement plug, if the upper-most
hydrocarbon-producing stratum is
within 300 feet of the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the
operator will place a minimum of 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
distance base on what is required due to
the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil or gas wells to the
surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry
down the well to form a plug that runs
from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam (or lower if required by the
DM due to the geological strata, or due
to pressure within the well) to the
surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per
square inch. Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above
the top of the uppermost mineable coal
seam (or higher if required by the DM
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well) to the surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
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Sfmt 4703
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute
(API) well number either engraved or
welded on the casing. When the hole
cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the
operator will use high-resolution GPS
coordinates (one-half meter resolution)
to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil and gas wells for
subsequent use as degasification
boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping expanding cement slurry
down the tubing to provide at least 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
depth due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will place the expanding
cement in the well under a pressure of
at least 200 pounds per square inch and
extend the top of the expanding cement
at least 100 feet above the top of the coal
seam being mined, unless the DM
requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing
into the bedrock of the upper portion of
the degasification well to protect it. The
remainder of this well may be cased or
uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification
casing with a wellhead, equipped as
required by the DM in the approved
ventilation plan. Such equipment may
include check valves, shut-in valves,
sampling ports, flame arrestor
equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification
well will be addressed in the approved
ventilation plan. This may include
periodic tests of methane levels and
limits on the minimum methane
concentrations that may be extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that
is degassed by a well is sealed or the
coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas
holes using the following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the
drill hole or, if not possible, to at least
100 feet above the coal seam being
mined. Remove any blockage to ensure
that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the
tubing until the well is filled to the
surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
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a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or
welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for preparing and
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells
that cannot be completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel
to the well to a depth of at least 200 feet
(or 400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) below the lowest
mineable coal seam, unless the DM
requires a greater depth due to the
geological strata, or due to pressures
within the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain
in the well using a geophysical sensing
device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill
into the well from the parallel hole and
perforate or rip all casings at intervals
of at least 5 feet from 10 feet below the
coal seam to 10 feet above the coal
seam. Beyond that distance, perforate or
rip all casings at least every 50 feet from
at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the seam being
mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will fill the annulus between
the casings and between the casings and
the well wall with expanding cement
(minimum of 0.5% expansion on
setting), and ensure that these areas
contain no voids. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizons, rip or perforate any
casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will
provide an acceptable casing bond log
for each casing and tubing used in lieu
of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic
fracturing technique to intercept the
original well where there is sufficient
casing in the well to allow use of the
method outlined in paragraph (d)(3)
above. Fracture the original well in at
least six places from at least 200 feet
(400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at
least 50 feet above the seam being
mined at intervals to be agreed on by the
petitioner and the DM after considering
the geological strata and the pressure
within the well. The operator will pump
expanding cement into the fractured
well in sufficient quantities and in a
manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
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survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for the
bridge plug. The operator will maintain
a journal describing; the depth and
nature of each material encountered; bit
size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; the length and type of each
material used to plug the well; length of
casing(s) removed, perforated, ripped, or
left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well.
Invoices, work-orders, and other records
relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug
the open portions of both holes from the
bottom to the surface with Portland
cement or a lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures after approval has
been granted by the DM to mine through
a plugged or replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged
well, notify the DM or designee,
representative of the miners, and the
appropriate State agency in sufficient
time for them to have a representative
present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last
open crosscut near the place to be
mined to ensure intersection of the well
when mining through wells using
continuous mining equipment. The
drivage spads will not be more than 50
feet from the well. Install drivage spads
on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50
feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage
spads will also be installed in the
headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including
fire extinguishers, rock dust, and
sufficient fire hose to reach the working
face area of the mine-through (when
either the conventional or continuous
mining method is used), will be
available and operable during each well
mine-through. The operator will locate
the fire hose in the last open crosscut of
the entry or room and maintain the
water line to the belt conveyor tailpiece
along with a sufficient amount of fire
hose to reach the farthest point of
penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open
crosscut, a supply of roof support and
ventilation materials sufficient to
ventilate and support around the well
on cut-through. In addition, keep
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47433
emergency plugs and suitable sealing
materials will be available in the
immediate area of the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining
through the well, all equipment will be
serviced and checked for permissibility.
Water sprays, water pressures and water
flow rates used for dust and spark
suppression will be examined and any
deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on
the longwall, continuous mining
machine, or cutting machine and
loading machine on the shift prior to
mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test
methane levels with a hand-held
methane detector at least every 10
minutes from the time that mining with
the continuous mining machine is
within 30 feet of the well until the well
is intersected and immediately prior to
mining through it. No individual is
allowed on the return side during the
actual cutting process until the minethrough has been completed and the
area examined and declared safe. All
workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the
shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and apply rock dust on the
roof, rib, and floor to within 20 feet of
the face when mining through the well
when using continuous or conventional
mining methods. Conduct rock dusting
on longwall sections on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and
tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or
conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied
on the roof, rib, and floor to within 20
feet of the face when mining through the
well. On longwall sections, rock dusting
will be conducted and place on the roof,
rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when
the well is intersected and thoroughly
examine the place and determine it is
safe before resuming mining. After a
well has been intersected and the
working place determined safe, mining
will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation
around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at
the coal seam level, the use of torches
should not be necessary. In rare
instances, torches may be used for
inadequately or inaccurately cut or
milled casings. No open flame is
permitted in the area until adequate
ventilation has been established around
the wellbore and methane levels are less
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than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be
exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick
layer of rock dust to the roof, face, floor,
ribs, and any exposed coal within 20
feet of the casing prior to any use of
torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be
located on the working section and will
be used to expose and examine cased
wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in
the area of the cut-through operation
except those actually engaged in the
mining operation, including company
personnel, representative of the miners,
personnel from MSHA, and personnel
from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all
personnel in the mine to the planned
intersection of the well prior to their
going underground if the planned
intersection is to occur during their
shift. This warning will be repeated for
all shifts until the well has been mined
through.
(15) A certified official will directly
supervise the cut-through operation and
only the certified official in charge will
issue instructions concerning the minethrough operation.
(16) The responsible person required
in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be responsible
for well intersection emergencies. The
responsible person will review the well
intersection procedures prior to any
planned intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved part
48 training plan to the DM. The
proposed revisions will include initial
and refresher training regarding
compliance with the terms and
conditions of this petition for
modification. The operator will provide
all miners involved in the mine-through
of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for
modification prior to mining within 150
feet of the next well to be mined
through.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved
mine emergency evacuation and
firefighting plan required in 30 CFR
75.1501. The petitioner will revise the
plans to include the hazards and
evacuation procedures to be used for
well intersections. All underground
miners will be trained in this revised
plan within 30 days of the DM’s
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
Such training may be done in a weekly
safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
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Jkt 238001
times guarantee no less than the same
measure or protection afforded by the
existing standard.
Docket Number: M–2016–020–C.
Petitioner: The Ohio County Coal
Company, 1 Bridge Street, Monongah,
West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Ohio County Mine, MSHA I.D.
No. 46–01436, located in Marshall
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700
(Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The
petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be
amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Shoemaker Mine, Docket
Number M–1990–066–C (now known as
the Ohio County Coal Company, Ohio
County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46–
01436). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum
wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to
1930 when no standards for drilling and
plugging existed. Many wells were
abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Energy
Research and Development
Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal
Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively
prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining
operations and allow additional safety
and operational benefits that are not
possible under § 75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and
maintaining barriers around oil and gas
wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the
surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through
the petitioner’s successful well-plugging
program. Since the inception of the
well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells
have been effectively plugged and
successfully been mined through or
around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging
oil and gas wells approved in the
previously granted petition, the
petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven
technological advances not available for
plugging oil and gas wells when the
previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of
compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety
barrier of 300 feet in diameter (150 feet
between any mined area and a well)
around all oil and gas wells (defined to
include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells,
including water injection wells) until
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approval to proceed with mining has
been obtained from the District Manager
(DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas
wells, the petitioner will provide to the
DM a declaration stating that all
mandatory procedures for cleaning out,
preparing, and plugging each gas or oil
well have been completed. The
declaration will be accompanied by logs
described in this petition and any other
records that the DM may request. The
DM will review the declaration, the logs
and any other records that have been
requested, and may inspect the well,
and will then determine if the operator
has complied with the procedures for
cleaning out, preparing and plugging
each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with
and provides an approval, the operator
may then mine within the safety barrier
of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures when cleaning out
and preparing oil and gas wells prior to
plugging or replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less
than 4,000 feet, the operator will
completely clean out the well from the
surface to at least 200 feet below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
unless the DM requires cleaning to a
greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well. If the total
depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater,
the operator will completely clean out
the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire
diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for a
bridge plug. The DM may approve the
use of a down-hole camera survey in
lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The
depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to
drill each portion of the hole; length and
type of each material used to plug the
well; the length of casing(s) removed,
perforated or ripped, or left in place;
any sections where casing was cut or
milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the
well. Invoices, work-orders, and other
records relating to all work on the well
will be maintained as part of the journal
and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the
well or, if it is not possible to remove
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all of the casing, fill the annulus
between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with
expanding cement (minimum 0.5
percent expansion on setting) and
ensure that these areas contain no voids.
If the casing cannot be removed, the
operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate
or rip it at least every 50 feet from at
least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the uppermost
mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
DM that all annuli in the well are
already adequately sealed with cement
using a casing bond log, then the
operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that
particular well. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizon(s), the operator will
perforate or rip any casing that remains
and fill with expanding cement and
keep an acceptable casing bond log for
each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in
the well if a cleaned-out well emits
excessive amounts of gas. Place the
mechanical bridge plug in a competent
stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the
uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a
greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well.
(The operator will provide the DM with
all information it possesses concerning
the geologic nature of the strata and the
pressure of the well.) If it is not possible
to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge
plugs to isolate the hydrocarbonproducing stratum from the expanding
cement plug, if the upper-most
hydrocarbon-producing stratum is
within 300 feet of the base of the lowest
mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the
operator will place a minimum of 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
distance base on what is required due to
the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil or gas wells to the
surface:
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17:15 Jul 20, 2016
Jkt 238001
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry
down the well to form a plug that runs
from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater)
below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam (or lower if required by the
DM due to the geological strata, or due
to pressure within the well) to the
surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per
square inch. Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above
the top of the uppermost mineable coal
seam (or higher if required by the DM
due to the geological strata, or due to the
pressure within the well) to the surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute
(API) well number either engraved or
welded on the casing. When the hole
cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the
operator will use high-resolution GPS
coordinates (one-half meter resolution)
to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for plugging or
replugging oil and gas wells for
subsequent use as degasification
boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping expanding cement slurry
down the tubing to provide at least 200
feet (400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
cement below the lowest mineable coal
seam, unless the DM requires a greater
depth due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will place the expanding
cement in the well under a pressure of
at least 200 pounds per square inch and
extend the top of the expanding cement
at least 100 feet above the top of the coal
seam being mined, unless the DM
requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing
into the bedrock of the upper portion of
the degasification well to protect it. The
remainder of this well may be cased or
uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification
casing with a wellhead, equipped as
required by the DM in the approved
ventilation plan. Such equipment may
include check valves, shut-in valves,
sampling ports, flame arrestor
equipment, and security fencing.
PO 00000
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47435
(4) Operation of the degasification
well will be addressed in the approved
ventilation plan. This may include
periodic tests of methane levels and
limits on the minimum methane
concentrations that may be extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that
is degassed by a well is sealed or the
coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas
holes using the following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the
drill hole or, if not possible, to at least
100 feet above the coal seam being
mined. Remove any blockage to ensure
that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by
pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the
tubing until the well is filled to the
surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or
welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures for preparing and
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells
that cannot be completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel
to the well to a depth of at least 200 feet
(or 400 feet if the total well depth is
4,000 feet or greater) below the lowest
mineable coal seam, unless the DM
requires a greater depth due to the
geological strata, or due to pressures
within the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain
in the well using a geophysical sensing
device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill
into the well from the parallel hole and
perforate or rip all casings at intervals
of at least 5 feet from 10 feet below the
coal seam to 10 feet above the coal
seam. Beyond that distance, perforate or
rip all casings at least every 50 feet from
at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the
base of the lowest mineable coal seam
up to 100 feet above the seam being
mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or
due to the pressure within the well. The
operator will fill the annulus between
the casings and between the casings and
the well wall with expanding cement
(minimum of 0.5% expansion on
setting), and ensure that these areas
contain no voids. When multiple casing
and tubing strings are present in the
coal horizons, rip or perforate any
casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will
provide an acceptable casing bond log
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for each casing and tubing used in lieu
of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic
fracturing technique to intercept the
original well where there is sufficient
casing in the well to allow use of the
method outlined in paragraph (d)(3)
above. Fracture the original well in at
least six places from at least 200 feet
(400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at
least 50 feet above the seam being
mined at intervals to be agreed on by the
petitioner and the DM after considering
the geological strata and the pressure
within the well. The operator will pump
expanding cement into the fractured
well in sufficient quantities and in a
manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each
well. The logs will consist of a caliper
survey and be suitable for determining
the top, bottom, and thickness of all coal
seams and potential hydrocarbonproducing strata and the location for the
bridge plug. The operator will maintain
a journal describing; the depth and
nature of each material encountered; bit
size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; the length and type of each
material used to plug the well; length of
casing(s) removed, perforated, ripped, or
left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well.
Invoices, work-orders, and other records
relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and
provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug
the open portions of both holes from the
bottom to the surface with Portland
cement or a lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other
small magnetic particles in the top of
the cement near the surface to serve as
a permanent magnetic monument of the
well. In the alternative, extend a 41⁄2inch or larger casing, set in cement, at
least 36 inches above the ground level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the
following procedures after approval has
been granted by the DM to mine through
a plugged or replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged
well, notify the DM or designee,
representative of the miners, and the
appropriate State agency in sufficient
time for them to have a representative
present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last
open crosscut near the place to be
mined to ensure intersection of the well
when mining through wells using
continuous mining equipment. The
drivage spads will not be more than 50
feet from the well. Install drivage spads
on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50
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Jkt 238001
feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage
spads will also be installed in the
headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including
fire extinguishers, rock dust, and
sufficient fire hose to reach the working
face area of the mine-through (when
either the conventional or continuous
mining method is used), will be
available and operable during each well
mine-through. The operator will locate
the fire hose in the last open crosscut of
the entry or room and maintain the
water line to the belt conveyor tailpiece
along with a sufficient amount of fire
hose to reach the farthest point of
penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open
crosscut, a supply of roof support and
ventilation materials sufficient to
ventilate and support around the well
on cut-through. In addition, keep
emergency plugs and suitable sealing
materials will be available in the
immediate area of the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining
through the well, all equipment will be
serviced and checked for permissibility.
Water sprays, water pressures and water
flow rates used for dust and spark
suppression will be examined and any
deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on
the longwall, continuous mining
machine, or cutting machine and
loading machine on the shift prior to
mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test
methane levels with a hand-held
methane detector at least every 10
minutes from the time that mining with
the continuous mining machine is
within 30 feet of the well until the well
is intersected and immediately prior to
mining through it. No individual is
allowed on the return side during the
actual cutting process until the minethrough has been completed and the
area examined and declared safe. All
workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the
shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and apply rock dust on the
roof, rib, and floor to within 20 feet of
the face when mining through the well
when using continuous or conventional
mining methods. Conduct rock dusting
on longwall sections on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and
tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or
conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of
accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied
on the roof, rib, and floor to within 20
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Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
feet of the face when mining through the
well. On longwall sections, rock dusting
will be conducted and place on the roof,
rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when
the well is intersected and thoroughly
examine the place and determine it is
safe before resuming mining. After a
well has been intersected and the
working place determined safe, mining
will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation
around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at
the coal seam level, the use of torches
should not be necessary. In rare
instances, torches may be used for
inadequately or inaccurately cut or
milled casings. No open flame is
permitted in the area until adequate
ventilation has been established around
the wellbore and methane levels are less
than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be
exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick
layer of rock dust to the roof, face, floor,
ribs, and any exposed coal within 20
feet of the casing prior to any use of
torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be
located on the working section and will
be used to expose and examine cased
wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in
the area of the cut-through operation
except those actually engaged in the
mining operation, including company
personnel, representative of the miners,
personnel from MSHA, and personnel
from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all
personnel in the mine to the planned
intersection of the well prior to their
going underground if the planned
intersection is to occur during their
shift. This warning will be repeated for
all shifts until the well has been mined
through.
(15) A certified official will directly
supervise the cut-through operation and
only the certified official in charge will
issue instructions concerning the minethrough operation.
(16) The responsible person required
in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be responsible
for well intersection emergencies. The
responsible person will review the well
intersection procedures prior to any
planned intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved part
48 training plan to the DM. The
proposed revisions will include initial
and refresher training regarding
compliance with the terms and
conditions of this petition for
modification. The operator will provide
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all miners involved in the mine-through
of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for
modification prior to mining within 150
feet of the next well to be mined
through.
Within 30 days after this petition
becomes final, the petitioner will submit
proposed revisions for its approved
mine emergency evacuation and
firefighting plan required in 30 CFR
75.1501. The petitioner will revise the
plans to include the hazards and
evacuation procedures to be used for
well intersections. All underground
miners will be trained in this revised
plan within 30 days of the DM’s
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
Such training may be done in a weekly
safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the
proposed alternative method will at all
times guarantee no less than the same
measure or protection afforded by the
existing standard.
Sheila McConnell,
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations,
and Variances.
[FR Doc. 2016–17173 Filed 7–20–16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4520–43–P
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
Agency Information Collection
Activities: Announcement of the Office
of Management and Budget (OMB)
Control Numbers Under the Paperwork
Reduction Act
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), Labor.
ACTION: Notice; announcement of the
Office of Management and Budget’s
(OMB) approval of information
collection requirements.
AGENCY:
The Occupational Safety and
Health Administration announces that
OMB extended its approval for a
number of information collection
requirements found in a number of
OSHA’s standards and regulations.
OSHA sought approval of these
requirements under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), and, as
required by that Act, is announcing the
approval numbers and expiration dates
for these requirements and regulations.
DATES: This notice is effective July 21,
2016.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Theda Kenney or Todd Owen,
Directorate of Standards and Guidance,
Occupational Safety and Health
SUMMARY:
Chloropropane
(DBCP)
(29
CFR
1,3-Butadiene (29 CFR 1910.1051) ................................
4,4’-Methylenedianiline (MDA) in Construction (29 CFR
1926.60).
Asbestos in Shipyards (29 CFR 1915.1001) ..................
Cadmium in General Industry (29 CFR 1910.1027) .......
Commercial Diving Operations (29 CFR part 1910, subpart T).
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120).
Hexavalent Chromium for General Industry (29 CFR
1910.1026), Shipyard Employment (29 CFR
1915.1026), and Construction (29 CFR 1926.1126).
Inorganic Arsenic (29 CFR 1910.1018) ..........................
Lead in Construction (29 CFR 1926.62) .........................
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:15 Jul 20, 2016
Jkt 238001
In a series
of Federal Register notices, the Agency
announced its requests to OMB to renew
its current extensions of approvals for
various information collection
(paperwork) requirements in its safety
and health standards pertaining to
general industry, shipyard employment,
and the construction industry (i.e., 29
CFR parts 1905, 1910, 1915, 1917, 1918,
and 1926), and regulations pertaining to
Occupational Safety and Health State
Plans, and OSHA Strategic Partnership
Program for Worker Safety and Health.
In these Federal Register
announcements, the Agency provided
60-day comment periods for the public
to respond to OSHA’s burden hour and
cost estimates.
In accord with the PRA (44 U.S.C.
3501–3520), OMB approved these
information collection requirements.
The table below provides the following
information for each of these
information collection requirements
approved by OMB: the title of the
Federal Register notice; the Federal
Register reference (date, volume, and
leading page); OMB’s Control Number;
and the new expiration date.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Date of Federal Register
publication,
Federal Register reference, and
OSHA docket No.
Title of the information collection
request
1,2-Dibromo-3
1910.1044).
Administration, U.S. Department of
Labor, Room N–3609, 200 Constitution
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20210,
telephone: (202) 693–2222.
PO 00000
OMB control
No.
May 18, 2015 .................................................................
80 FR 28300
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0010
October 26, 2015 ...........................................................
80 FR 65246
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0027
December 17, 2015 ........................................................
80 FR 78773
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0031
May 21, 2015 .................................................................
80 FR 29344
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0009
June 11, 2015 ................................................................
80 FR 33293
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0005
April 7, 2015 ...................................................................
80 FR 18647
Docket No. OSHA–2011–0008
August 19, 2015 .............................................................
80 FR 50325
Docket No. OSHA–2011–0862
December 17, 2015 ........................................................
80 FR 78775
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0034
January 14, 2015 ...........................................................
80 FR 1970
Docket No. OSHA2011–0186
September 22, 2015 .......................................................
80 FR 57231
Docket No. OSHA–2012–0014
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 140 (Thursday, July 21, 2016)]
[Notices]
[Pages 47422-47437]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-17173]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Mine Safety and Health Administration
Petitions for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory
Safety Standards
AGENCY: Mine Safety and Health Administration, Labor.
ACTION: Notice.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: Section 101(c) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of
1977 and Title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 44 govern the
application, processing, and disposition of petitions for modification.
This notice is a summary of petitions for modification submitted to the
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) by the parties listed
below.
DATES: All comments on the petitions must be received by MSHA's Office
of Standards, Regulations, and Variances on or before August 22, 2016.
ADDRESSES: You may submit your comments, identified by ``docket
number'' on the subject line, by any of the following methods:
1. Electronic Mail: zzMSHA-comments@dol.gov. Include the docket
number of the petition in the subject line of the message.
2. Facsimile: 202-693-9441.
3. Regular Mail or Hand Delivery: MSHA, Office of Standards,
Regulations, and Variances, 201 12th Street South, Suite 4E401,
Arlington, Virginia 22202-5452, Attention: Sheila McConnell, Director,
Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances. Persons delivering
documents are required to check in at the receptionist's desk in Suite
4E401. Individuals may inspect copies of the petitions and comments
during normal business hours at the address listed above.
MSHA will consider only comments postmarked by the U.S. Postal
Service or proof of delivery from another delivery service such as UPS
or Federal Express on or before the deadline for comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Barron, Office of Standards,
Regulations, and Variances at 202-693-9447 (Voice),
barron.barbara@dol.gov (Email), or 202-693-9441 (Facsimile). [These are
not toll-free numbers.]
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
Section 101(c) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977
(Mine Act) allows the mine operator or representative of miners to file
a petition to modify the application of any mandatory safety standard
to a coal or other mine if the Secretary of Labor determines that:
1. An alternative method of achieving the result of such standard
exists which will at all times guarantee no less than the same measure
of protection afforded the miners of such mine by such standard; or
2. That the application of such standard to such mine will result
in a diminution of safety to the miners in such mine.
[[Page 47423]]
In addition, the regulations at 30 CFR 44.10 and 44.11 establish
the requirements and procedures for filing petitions for modification.
II. Petitions for Modification
Docket Number: M-2016-015-C.
Petitioner: Canyon Fuel Company, LLC, HC 35, Box 380, Helper, Utah
84526.
Mine: Skyline mine, MSHA I.D. No. 42-01566, located in Carbon
County, Utah.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.380(d)(4) (Escapeways; bituminous
and lignite mines).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests a modification of
the existing standard to permit an escapeway to be maintained at least
4 feet wide where the route of travel passes by conveyor belt
components. The petitioner states that:
(1) The standard 6-foot wide walkway specified in 30 CFR
75.380(d)(4) already allows for exceptions to the 6-foot walkway,
including where supplemental support is installed and where the
escapeways pass through doors. When these two situations arise, the
standard 6-foot walkway is reduced to 4 feet. Conveyor belt components
such as belt drives, belt storage units and belt transfers may also
impinge upon the standard 6-foot walkway. The petitioner proposes to:
(a) Demonstrate that four miners carrying a stretcher could quickly
traverse an area at the widths proposed in this petition.
(b) Identify the portions of the alternate escapeway where this
petition is in effect on the mine map required by 30 CFR 75.372.
(c) Maintain the full 4-foot width of the escapeway in areas
affected by this petition free of accumulations of mud, water, and
other hazards at all times.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times provide no less than the same measure of protection afford by
the existing standard.
Docket Number: M-2016-016-C.
Petitioner: Marshall County Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Marshall County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01437, located in
Marshall County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700 (Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be amended for the McElroy Coal
Company, McElroy Mine, Docket Number M-1988-199-C (now known as the
Marshall County Coal Company, Marshall County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-
01437). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum wells in the Marshall County
Coal Company Mine were drilled prior to 1930 when no standards for
drilling and plugging existed. Many wells were abandoned during that
time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines,
Energy Research and Development Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining operations and allow additional
safety and operational benefits that are not possible under Sec.
75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and maintaining barriers around oil and
gas wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the Pittsburgh Coal Seam
from the surrounding strata at the affected wells by using technology
developed through the petitioner's successful well-plugging program.
Since the inception of the well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells have been effectively plugged
and successfully been mined through or around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging oil and gas wells approved in
the previously granted petition, the petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven technological advances not available
for plugging oil and gas wells when the previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety barrier of 300 feet in
diameter (150 feet between any mined area and a well) around all oil
and gas wells (defined to include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells, including water injection wells)
until approval to proceed with mining has been obtained from the
District Manager (DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas wells, the petitioner will
provide to the DM a declaration stating that all mandatory procedures
for cleaning out, preparing, and plugging each gas or oil well have
been completed. The declaration will be accompanied by logs described
in this petition and any other records that the DM may request. The DM
will review the declaration, the logs and any other records that have
been requested, and may inspect the well, and determine if the operator
has complied with the procedures for cleaning out, preparing and
plugging each well. If the DM determines that the procedures have been
complied with and provides an approval, the operator may then mine
within the safety barrier of the well according to the terms of the
Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures when
cleaning out and preparing oil and gas wells prior to plugging or
replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less than 4,000 feet, the
operator will completely clean out the well from the surface to at
least 200 feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam unless
the DM requires cleaning to a greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
If the total depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater, the operator
will completely clean out the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for a bridge plug. The DM may approve the use of a
down-hole camera survey in lieu of down-hole logs. In addition, the
operator will maintain a journal describing: The depth and nature of
each material encountered; bit size and type used to drill each portion
of the hole; length and type of each material used to plug the well;
the length of casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped, or left in
place; any sections where casing was cut or milled; and other pertinent
information concerning cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices, work-
orders, and other records relating to all work on the well will be
maintained as part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the well or, if it is not possible
to remove all of the casing, fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well walls with expanding cement (minimum
0.5 percent expansion on setting) and ensure that these areas contain
no voids. If the casing cannot be removed, the operator will cut or
mill it at all mineable coal seam levels and perforate or rip it at
least every 50 feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam up to 100 feet above the uppermost mineable coal seam. If the
operator can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DM that all annuli
in the well are already adequately sealed with cement
[[Page 47424]]
using a casing bond log, then the operator will not be required to
perforate or rip the casing for that particular well. When multiple
casing and tubing strings are present in the coal horizon(s), the
operator will perforate or rip any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement and keep an acceptable casing bond log for each casing
and tubing string used in lieu of ripping or perforating multiple
strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in the well if a cleaned-out
well emits excessive amounts of gas. Place the mechanical bridge plug
in a competent stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. (The operator will provide the DM with all information it
possesses concerning the geologic nature of the strata and the pressure
of the well.) If it is not possible to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge plugs to isolate the
hydrocarbon-producing stratum from the expanding cement plug, if the
upper-most hydrocarbon-producing stratum is within 300 feet of the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the operator will place
a minimum of 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet
or greater) of expanding cement below the lowest mineable coal seam,
unless the DM requires a greater distance base on what is required due
to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells to the surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry down the well to form a plug that
runs from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam (or
lower if required by the DM due to the geological strata, or due to
pressure within the well) to the surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds
per square inch. Portland cement or a lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above the top of the uppermost
mineable coal seam (or higher if required by the DM due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well) to the
surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute (API) well number either engraved
or welded on the casing. When the hole cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the operator will use high-resolution
GPS coordinates (one-half meter resolution) to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil and gas wells for subsequent use as
degasification boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping expanding cement
slurry down the tubing to provide at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) of expanding cement below
the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a greater depth
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
The operator will place the expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per square inch, and extend the top of
the expanding cement at least 100 feet above the top of the coal seam
being mined, unless the DM requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing into the bedrock of the upper
portion of the degasification well to protect it. The remainder of this
well may be cased or uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification casing with a wellhead,
equipped as required by the DM in the approved ventilation plan. Such
equipment may include check valves, shut-in valves, sampling ports,
flame arrestor equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification well will be addressed in the
approved ventilation plan. This may include periodic tests of methane
levels and limits on the minimum methane concentrations that may be
extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that is degassed by a well is
sealed or the coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas holes using the
following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the drill hole or, if not
possible, to at least 100 feet above the coal seam being mined. Remove
any blockage to ensure that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the tubing until the well is filled to
the surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
preparing and plugging or replugging oil or gas wells that cannot be
completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel to the well to a depth of at
least 200 feet (or 400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or
greater) below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to pressures within
the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain in the well using a
geophysical sensing device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill into the well from the
parallel hole and perforate or rip all casings at intervals of at least
5 feet from 10 feet below the coal seam to 10 feet above the coal seam.
Beyond that distance, perforate or rip all casings at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. The operator will fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well wall with expanding cement (minimum of
0.5% expansion on setting), and ensure that these areas contain no
voids. When multiple casing and tubing strings are present in the coal
horizons, rip or perforate any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will provide an acceptable casing bond
log for each casing and tubing used in lieu of ripping or perforating
multiple strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic fracturing technique to intercept
the original well where there is insufficient casing in the well to
allow use of the method outlined in paragraph (d)(3) above. Fracture
the original well in at least six places from at least 200 feet (400
feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam to a point at least 50 feet above the
seam being mined at intervals to be agreed on by the petitioner and the
DM after considering the geological strata and the pressure within the
well. The operator will pump
[[Page 47425]]
expanding cement into the fractured well in sufficient quantities and
in a manner that fills all intercepted voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for the bridge plug. The operator will maintain a
journal describing: The depth and nature of each material encountered;
bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole; the length
and type of each material used to plug the well; length of casing(s)
removed, perforated, ripped, or left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug the open portions of both
holes from the bottom to the surface with Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground
level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures after
approval has been granted by the DM to mine through a plugged or
replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged well, notify the DM or
designee, representative of the miners, and the appropriate State
agency in sufficient time for them to have a representative present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last open crosscut near the place
to be mined to ensure intersection of the well when mining through
wells using continuous mining equipment. The drivage spads will not be
more than 50 feet from the well. Install drivage spads on 10-foot
centers for a distance of 50 feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage spads will also be installed in
the headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, rock
dust, and sufficient fire hose to reach the working face area of the
mine-through (when either the conventional or continuous mining method
is used), will be available and operable during each well mine-through.
The operator will locate the fire hose in the last open crosscut of the
entry or room and maintain the water line to the belt conveyor
tailpiece along with a sufficient amount of fire hose to reach the
farthest point of penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open crosscut, a supply of roof
support and ventilation materials sufficient to ventilate and support
around the well on cut-through. In addition, keep emergency plugs and
suitable sealing materials will be available in the immediate area of
the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining through the well, all equipment
will be serviced and checked for permissibility. Water sprays, water
pressures and water flow rates used for dust and spark suppression will
be examined and any deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on the longwall, continuous
mining machine, or cutting machine and loading machine on the shift
prior to mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test methane levels with a hand-
held methane detector at least every 10 minutes from the time that
mining with the continuous mining machine is within 30 feet of the well
until the well is intersected and immediately prior to mining through
it. No individual is allowed on the return side during the actual
cutting process until the mine-through has been completed and the area
examined and declared safe. All workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from accumulations of coal dust and
coal spillages, and apply rock dust on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well when using
continuous or conventional mining methods. Conduct rock dusting on
longwall sections on the roof, rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well. On longwall
sections, rock dusting will be conducted and place on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when the well is intersected and
thoroughly examine the place and determine it is safe before resuming
mining. After a well has been intersected and the working place
determined safe, mining will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at the coal seam level, the use
of torches should not be necessary. In rare instances, torches may be
used for inadequately or inaccurately cut or milled casings. No open
flame is permitted in the area until adequate ventilation has been
established around the wellbore and methane levels are less than 1.0
percent in all areas that will be exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick layer of rock dust to the roof,
face, floor, ribs, and any exposed coal within 20 feet of the casing
prior to any use of torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be located on the working
section and will be used to expose and examine cased wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in the area of the cut-through
operation except those actually engaged in the mining operation,
including company personnel, representative of the miners, personnel
from MSHA, and personnel from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all personnel in the mine to the
planned intersection of the well prior to their going underground if
the planned intersection is to occur during their shift. This warning
will be repeated for all shifts until the well has been mined through.
(15) A certified official will directly supervise the cut-through
operation and only the certified official in charge will issue
instructions concerning the mine-through operation.
(16) The responsible person required in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be
responsible for well intersection emergencies. The responsible person
will review the well intersection procedures prior to any planned
intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved part 48 training plan
to the DM. The proposed revisions will include initial and refresher
training regarding compliance with the terms and conditions of this
petition for modification. The operator will provide all miners
involved in the mine-through of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for modification prior to mining within
150 feet of the next well to be mined through.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved mine emergency
evacuation and firefighting plan required in 30 CFR 75.1501. The
petitioner will revise the plans to include the hazards and evacuation
procedures to be used for well intersections. All underground miners
will be trained in this revised plan within 30 days of the DM's
approval of the revised evacuation plan.
[[Page 47426]]
Such training may be done in a weekly safety meeting or other type of
appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times guarantee no less than the same measure or protection
afforded by the existing standard.
Docket Number: M-2016-017-C.
Petitioner: The Marion County Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Marion County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01433, located in Marion
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700 (Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Loveridge Mine, Docket Number M-1990-156-C (now known as the
Marion County Coal Company, Marion County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-
01433). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to 1930 when no standards for drilling
and plugging existed. Many wells were abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines,
Energy Research and Development Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining operations and allow additional
safety and operational benefits that are not possible under Sec.
75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and maintaining barriers around oil and
gas wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the Pittsburgh Coal Seam
from the surrounding strata at the affected wells by using technology
developed through the petitioner's successful well-plugging program.
Since the inception of the well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells have been effectively plugged
and successfully been mined through or around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging oil and gas wells approved in
the previously granted petition, the petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven technological advances not available
for plugging oil and gas wells when the previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety barrier of 300 feet in
diameter (150 feet between any mined area and a well) around all oil
and gas wells (defined to include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells, including water injection wells)
until approval to proceed with mining has been obtained from the
District Manager (DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas wells, the petitioner will
provide to the DM a declaration stating that all mandatory procedures
for cleaning out, preparing, and plugging each gas or oil well have
been completed. The declaration will be accompanied by logs described
in this petition and any other records that the DM may request. The DM
will review the declaration, the logs and any other records that have
been requested, and may inspect the well, and will then determine if
the operator has complied with the procedures for cleaning out,
preparing and plugging each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with and provides an approval, the
operator may then mine within the safety barrier of the well according
to the terms of the Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures when
cleaning out and preparing oil and gas wells prior to plugging or
replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less than 4,000 feet, the
operator will completely clean out the well from the surface to at
least 200 feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam unless
the DM requires cleaning to a greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
If the total depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater, the operator
will completely clean out the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for a bridge plug. The DM may approve the use of a
down-hole camera survey in lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole;
length and type of each material used to plug the well; the length of
casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped, or left in place; any sections
where casing was cut or milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the well or, if it is not possible
to remove all of the casing, fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well walls with expanding cement (minimum
0.5 percent expansion on setting) and ensure that these areas contain
no voids. If the casing cannot be removed, the operator will cut or
mill it at all mineable coal seam levels and perforate or rip it at
least every 50 feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam up to 100 feet above the uppermost mineable coal seam. If the
operator can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DM that all annuli
in the well are already adequately sealed with cement using a casing
bond log, then the operator will not be required to perforate or rip
the casing for that particular well. When multiple casing and tubing
strings are present in the coal horizon(s), the operator will perforate
or rip any casing that remains and fill with expanding cement and keep
an acceptable casing bond log for each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in the well if a cleaned-out
well emits excessive amounts of gas. Place the mechanical bridge plug
in a competent stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. (The operator will provide the DM with all information it
possesses concerning the geologic nature of the strata and the pressure
of the well.) If it is not possible to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge plugs to isolate the
hydrocarbon-producing stratum from the expanding cement plug, if the
upper-most hydrocarbon-producing stratum is within 300 feet of the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the operator will place
a minimum of 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet
or greater) of expanding cement below the lowest mineable coal seam,
unless the DM requires a greater distance base on what is required due
to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
[[Page 47427]]
b. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells to the surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry down the well to form a plug that
runs from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam (or
lower if required by the DM due to the geological strata, or due to
pressure within the well) to the surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds
per square inch. Portland cement or a lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above the top of the uppermost
mineable coal seam (or higher if required by the DM due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well) to the
surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute (API) well number either engraved
or welded on the casing. When the hole cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the operator will use high-resolution
GPS coordinates (one-half meter resolution) to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil and gas wells for subsequent use as
degasification boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping expanding cement
slurry down the tubing to provide at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) of expanding cement below
the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a greater depth
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
The operator will place the expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per square inch and extend the top of
the expanding cement at least 100 feet above the top of the coal seam
being mined, unless the DM requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing into the bedrock of the upper
portion of the degasification well to protect it. The remainder of this
well may be cased or uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification casing with a wellhead,
equipped as required by the DM in the approved ventilation plan. Such
equipment may include check valves, shut-in valves, sampling ports,
flame arrestor equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification well will be addressed in the
approved ventilation plan. This may include periodic tests of methane
levels and limits on the minimum methane concentrations that may be
extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that is degassed by a well is
sealed or the coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas holes using the
following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the drill hole or, if not
possible, to at least 100 feet above the coal seam being mined. Remove
any blockage to ensure that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the tubing until the well is filled to
the surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
preparing and plugging or replugging oil or gas wells that cannot be
completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel to the well to a depth of at
least 200 feet (or 400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or
greater) below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to pressures within
the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain in the well using a
geophysical sensing device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill into the well from the
parallel hole and perforate or rip all casings at intervals of at least
5 feet from 10 feet below the coal seam to 10 feet above the coal seam.
Beyond that distance, perforate or rip all casings at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. The operator will fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well wall with expanding cement (minimum of
0.5% expansion on setting), and ensure that these areas contain no
voids. When multiple casing and tubing strings are present in the coal
horizons, rip or perforate any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will provide an acceptable casing bond
log for each casing and tubing used in lieu of ripping or perforating
multiple strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic fracturing technique to intercept
the original well where there is sufficient casing in the well to allow
use of the method outlined in paragraph (d)(3) above. Fracture the
original well in at least six places from at least 200 feet (400 feet
if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at least 50 feet above the seam
being mined at intervals to be agreed on by the petitioner and the DM
after considering the geological strata and the pressure within the
well. The operator will pump expanding cement into the fractured well
in sufficient quantities and in a manner that fills all intercepted
voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for the bridge plug. The operator will maintain a
journal describing; the depth and nature of each material encountered;
bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole; the length
and type of each material used to plug the well; length of casing(s)
removed, perforated, ripped, or left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug the open portions of both
holes from the bottom to the surface with Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground
level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures after
approval has been granted by the DM to mine through a plugged or
replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged well, notify the DM or
designee, representative of the miners, and the appropriate State
agency in sufficient time for them to have a representative present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last open crosscut near the place
to be mined to ensure intersection of the well when mining through
wells using continuous mining equipment. The
[[Page 47428]]
drivage spads will not be more than 50 feet from the well. Install
drivage spads on 10-foot centers for a distance of 50 feet in advance
of the well when using longwall-mining methods. The drivage spads will
also be installed in the headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, rock
dust, and sufficient fire hose to reach the working face area of the
mine-through (when either the conventional or continuous mining method
is used), will be available and operable during each well mine-through.
The operator will locate the fire hose in the last open crosscut of the
entry or room and maintain the water line to the belt conveyor
tailpiece along with a sufficient amount of fire hose to reach the
farthest point of penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open crosscut, a supply of roof
support and ventilation materials sufficient to ventilate and support
around the well on cut-through. In addition, keep emergency plugs and
suitable sealing materials will be available in the immediate area of
the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining through the well, all equipment
will be serviced and checked for permissibility. Water sprays, water
pressures and water flow rates used for dust and spark suppression will
be examined and any deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on the longwall, continuous
mining machine, or cutting machine and loading machine on the shift
prior to mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test methane levels with a hand-
held methane detector at least every 10 minutes from the time that
mining with the continuous mining machine is within 30 feet of the well
until the well is intersected and immediately prior to mining through
it. No individual is allowed on the return side during the actual
cutting process until the mine-through has been completed and the area
examined and declared safe. All workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from accumulations of coal dust and
coal spillages, and apply rock dust on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well when using
continuous or conventional mining methods. Conduct rock dusting on
longwall sections on the roof, rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well. On longwall
sections, rock dusting will be conducted and place on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when the well is intersected and
thoroughly examine the place and determine it is safe before resuming
mining. After a well has been intersected and the working place
determined safe, mining will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at the coal seam level, the use
of torches should not be necessary. In rare instances, torches may be
used for inadequately or inaccurately cut or milled casings. No open
flame is permitted in the area until adequate ventilation has been
established around the wellbore and methane levels are less than 1.0
percent in all areas that will be exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick layer of rock dust to the roof,
face, floor, ribs, and any exposed coal within 20 feet of the casing
prior to any use of torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be located on the working
section and will be used to expose and examine cased wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in the area of the cut-through
operation except those actually engaged in the mining operation,
including company personnel, representative of the miners, personnel
from MSHA, and personnel from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all personnel in the mine to the
planned intersection of the well prior to their going underground if
the planned intersection is to occur during their shift. This warning
will be repeated for all shifts until the well has been mined through.
(15) A certified official will directly supervise the cut-through
operation and only the certified official in charge will issue
instructions concerning the mine-through operation.
(16) The responsible person required in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be
responsible for well intersection emergencies. The responsible person
will review the well intersection procedures prior to any planned
intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved part 48 training plan
to the DM. The proposed revisions will include initial and refresher
training regarding compliance with the terms and conditions of this
petition for modification. The operator will provide all miners
involved in the mine-through of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for modification prior to mining within
150 feet of the next well to be mined through.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved mine emergency
evacuation and firefighting plan required in 30 CFR 75.1501. The
petitioner will revise the plans to include the hazards and evacuation
procedures to be used for well intersections. All underground miners
will be trained in this revised plan within 30 days of the DM's
approval of the revised evacuation plan. Such training may be done in a
weekly safety meeting or other type of appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times guarantee no less than the same measure or protection
afforded by the existing standard.
Docket Number: M-2016-018-C.
Petitioner: The Monongalia County Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Monongalia County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01968, located in
Monongalia County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700 (Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Blacksville No. 2 Mine, Docket Number M-2001-014-C (now known
as the Monongalia County Coal Company, Monongalia County Mine, MSHA
I.D. No. 46-01968). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to 1930 when no standards for drilling
and plugging existed. Many wells were abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines,
Energy Research and Development Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining operations and allow additional
safety and operational benefits that are not possible under Sec.
75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and maintaining barriers around oil and
gas wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the
[[Page 47429]]
Pittsburgh Coal Seam from the surrounding strata at the affected wells
by using technology developed through the petitioner's successful well-
plugging program. Since the inception of the well-plugging program,
thousands of previously abandoned oil and gas wells have been
effectively plugged and successfully been mined through or around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging oil and gas wells approved in
the previously granted petition, the petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven technological advances not available
for plugging oil and gas wells when the previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety barrier of 300 feet in
diameter (150 feet between any mined area and a well) around all oil
and gas wells (defined to include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells, including water injection wells)
until approval to proceed with mining has been obtained from the
District Manager (DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas wells, the petitioner will
provide to the DM a declaration stating that all mandatory procedures
for cleaning out, preparing, and plugging each gas or oil well have
been completed. The declaration will be accompanied by logs described
in this petition and any other records that the DM may request. The DM
will review the declaration, the logs and any other records that have
been requested, and may inspect the well, and will then determine if
the operator has complied with the procedures for cleaning out,
preparing and plugging each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with and provides an approval, the
operator may then mine within the safety barrier of the well according
to the terms of the Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures when
cleaning out and preparing oil and gas wells prior to plugging or
replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less than 4,000 feet, the
operator will completely clean out the well from the surface to at
least 200 feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam unless
the DM requires cleaning to a greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
If the total depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater, the operator
will completely clean out the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for a bridge plug. The DM may approve the use of a
down-hole camera survey in lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole;
length and type of each material used to plug the well; The length of
casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped, or left in place; any sections
where casing was cut or milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the well or, if it is not possible
to remove all of the casing, fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well walls with expanding cement (minimum
0.5 percent expansion on setting) and ensure that these areas contain
no voids. If the casing cannot be removed, the operator will cut or
mill it at all mineable coal seam levels and perforate or rip it at
least every 50 feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam up to 100 feet above the uppermost mineable coal seam. If the
operator can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DM that all annuli
in the well are already adequately sealed with cement using a casing
bond log, then the operator will not be required to perforate or rip
the casing for that particular well. When multiple casing and tubing
strings are present in the coal horizon(s), the operator will perforate
or rip any casing that remains and fill with expanding cement and keep
an acceptable casing bond log for each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in the well if a cleaned-out
well emits excessive amounts of gas. Place the mechanical bridge plug
in a competent stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. (The operator will provide the DM with all information it
possesses concerning the geologic nature of the strata and the pressure
of the well.) If it is not possible to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge plugs to isolate the
hydrocarbon-producing stratum from the expanding cement plug, if the
upper-most hydrocarbon-producing stratum is within 300 feet of the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the operator will place
a minimum of 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet
or greater) of expanding cement below the lowest mineable coal seam,
unless the DM requires a greater distance base on what is required due
to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells to the surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry down the well to form a plug that
runs from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam (or
lower if required by the DM due to the geological strata, or due to
pressure within the well) to the surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds
per square inch. Portland cement or a lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above the top of the uppermost
mineable coal seam (or higher if required by the DM due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well) to the
surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute (API) well number either engraved
or welded on the casing. When the hole cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the operator will use high-resolution
GPS coordinates (one-half meter resolution) to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil and gas wells for subsequent use as
degasification boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping expanding cement
slurry down the tubing to provide at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) of expanding
[[Page 47430]]
cement below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure
within the well. The operator will place the expanding cement in the
well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds per square inch and extend
the top of the expanding cement at least 100 feet above the top of the
coal seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater distance due to
the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing into the bedrock of the upper
portion of the degasification well to protect it. The remainder of this
well may be cased or uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification casing with a wellhead,
equipped as required by the DM in the approved ventilation plan. Such
equipment may include check valves, shut-in valves, sampling ports,
flame arrestor equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification well will be addressed in the
approved ventilation plan. This may include periodic tests of methane
levels and limits on the minimum methane concentrations that may be
extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that is degassed by a well is
sealed or the coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas holes using the
following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the drill hole or, if not
possible, to at least 100 feet above the coal seam being mined. Remove
any blockage to ensure that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the tubing until the well is filled to
the surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
preparing and plugging or replugging oil or gas wells that cannot be
completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel to the well to a depth of at
least 200 feet (or 400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or
greater) below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to pressures within
the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain in the well using a
geophysical sensing device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill into the well from the
parallel hole and perforate or rip all casings at intervals of at least
5 feet from 10 feet below the coal seam to 10 feet above the coal seam.
Beyond that distance, perforate or rip all casings at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. The operator will fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well wall with expanding cement (minimum of
0.5% expansion on setting), and ensure that these areas contain no
voids. When multiple casing and tubing strings are present in the coal
horizons, rip or perforate any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will provide an acceptable casing bond
log for each casing and tubing used in lieu of ripping or perforating
multiple strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic fracturing technique to intercept
the original well where there is sufficient casing in the well to allow
use of the method outlined in paragraph (d)(3) above. Fracture the
original well in at least six places from at least 200 feet (400 feet
if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at least 50 feet above the seam
being mined at intervals to be agreed on by the petitioner and the DM
after considering the geological strata and the pressure within the
well. The operator will pump expanding cement into the fractured well
in sufficient quantities and in a manner that fills all intercepted
voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for the bridge plug. The operator will maintain a
journal describing; the depth and nature of each material encountered;
bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole; the length
and type of each material used to plug the well; length of casing(s)
removed, perforated, ripped, or left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug the open portions of both
holes from the bottom to the surface with Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground
level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures after
approval has been granted by the DM to mine through a plugged or
replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged well, notify the DM or
designee, representative of the miners, and the appropriate State
agency in sufficient time for them to have a representative present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last open crosscut near the place
to be mined to ensure intersection of the well when mining through
wells using continuous mining equipment. The drivage spads will not be
more than 50 feet from the well. Install drivage spads on 10-foot
centers for a distance of 50 feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage spads will also be installed in
the headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, rock
dust, and sufficient fire hose to reach the working face area of the
mine-through (when either the conventional or continuous mining method
is used), will be available and operable during each well mine-through.
The operator will locate the fire hose in the last open crosscut of the
entry or room and maintain the water line to the belt conveyor
tailpiece along with a sufficient amount of fire hose to reach the
farthest point of penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open crosscut, a supply of roof
support and ventilation materials sufficient to ventilate and support
around the well on cut-through. In addition, keep emergency plugs and
suitable sealing materials will be available in the immediate area of
the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining through the well, all equipment
will be serviced and checked for permissibility. Water sprays, water
pressures and water flow rates used for dust and spark suppression will
be examined and any deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on the longwall, continuous
mining machine, or cutting machine and loading machine on the shift
prior to mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test methane levels with a hand-
held methane detector at least every 10 minutes from the time that
mining with the continuous mining machine is within 30 feet of the well
until the well
[[Page 47431]]
is intersected and immediately prior to mining through it. No
individual is allowed on the return side during the actual cutting
process until the mine-through has been completed and the area examined
and declared safe. All workplace examinations will be conducted on the
return side of the shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from accumulations of coal dust and
coal spillages, and apply rock dust on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well when using
continuous or conventional mining methods. Conduct rock dusting on
longwall sections on the roof, rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well. On longwall
sections, rock dusting will be conducted and place on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when the well is intersected and
thoroughly examine the place and determine it is safe before resuming
mining. After a well has been intersected and the working place
determined safe, mining will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at the coal seam level, the use
of torches should not be necessary. In rare instances, torches may be
used for inadequately or inaccurately cut or milled casings. No open
flame is permitted in the area until adequate ventilation has been
established around the wellbore and methane levels are less than 1.0
percent in all areas that will be exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick layer of rock dust to the roof,
face, floor, ribs, and any exposed coal within 20 feet of the casing
prior to any use of torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be located on the working
section and will be used to expose and examine cased wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in the area of the cut-through
operation except those actually engaged in the mining operation,
including company personnel, representative of the miners, personnel
from MSHA, and personnel from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all personnel in the mine to the
planned intersection of the well prior to their going underground if
the planned intersection is to occur during their shift. This warning
will be repeated for all shifts until the well has been mined through.
(15) A certified official will directly supervise the cut-through
operation and only the certified official in charge will issue
instructions concerning the mine-through operation.
(16) The responsible person required in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be
responsible for well intersection emergencies. The responsible person
will review the well intersection procedures prior to any planned
intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved part 48 training plan
to the DM. The proposed revisions will include initial and refresher
training regarding compliance with the terms and conditions of this
petition for modification. The operator will provide all miners
involved in the mine-through of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for modification prior to mining within
150 feet of the next well to be mined through.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved mine emergency
evacuation and firefighting plan required in 30 CFR 75.1501. The
petitioner will revise the plans to include the hazards and evacuation
procedures to be used for well intersections. All underground miners
will be trained in this revised plan within 30 days of the DM's
approval of the revised evacuation plan. Such training may be done in a
weekly safety meeting or other type of appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times guarantee no less than the same measure or protection
afforded by the existing standard.
Docket Number: M-2016-019-C.
Petitioner: The Harrison County Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Harrison County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01318, located in
Marion County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700 (Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Robinson Run Mine, Docket Number M-2001-015-C (now known as
the Harrison County Coal Company, Harrison County Mine, MSHA I.D. No.
46-01318). The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to 1930 when no standards for drilling
and plugging existed. Many wells were abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines,
Energy Research and Development Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining operations and allow additional
safety and operational benefits that are not possible under Sec.
75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and maintaining barriers around oil and
gas wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the Pittsburgh Coal Seam
from the surrounding strata at the affected wells by using technology
developed through the petitioner's successful well-plugging program.
Since the inception of the well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells have been effectively plugged
and successfully been mined through or around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging oil and gas wells approved in
the previously granted petition, the petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven technological advances not available
for plugging oil and gas wells when the previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety barrier of 300 feet in
diameter (150 feet between any mined area and a well) around all oil
and gas wells (defined to include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells, including water injection wells)
until approval to proceed with mining has been obtained from the
District Manager (DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas wells, the petitioner will
provide to the DM a declaration stating that all mandatory procedures
for cleaning out, preparing, and plugging each gas or oil well have
been completed. The declaration will be accompanied by logs described
in this petition and any other records that the DM may request. The DM
will review the declaration, the logs and any other records that have
been requested, and may inspect the well, and will then determine if
the operator has complied with the procedures for cleaning out,
preparing and plugging each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with and provides an approval, the
operator
[[Page 47432]]
may then mine within the safety barrier of the well according to the
terms of the Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures when
cleaning out and preparing oil and gas wells prior to plugging or
replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less than 4,000 feet, the
operator will completely clean out the well from the surface to at
least 200 feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam unless
the DM requires cleaning to a greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
If the total depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater, the operator
will completely clean out the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for a bridge plug. The DM may approve the use of a
down-hole camera survey in lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole;
length and type of each material used to plug the well; the length of
casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped, or left in place; any sections
where casing was cut or milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the well or, if it is not possible
to remove all of the casing, fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well walls with expanding cement (minimum
0.5 percent expansion on setting) and ensure that these areas contain
no voids. If the casing cannot be removed, the operator will cut or
mill it at all mineable coal seam levels and perforate or rip it at
least every 50 feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam up to 100 feet above the uppermost mineable coal seam. If the
operator can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DM that all annuli
in the well are already adequately sealed with cement using a casing
bond log, then the operator will not be required to perforate or rip
the casing for that particular well. When multiple casing and tubing
strings are present in the coal horizon(s), the operator will perforate
or rip any casing that remains and fill with expanding cement and keep
an acceptable casing bond log for each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in the well if a cleaned-out
well emits excessive amounts of gas. Place the mechanical bridge plug
in a competent stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. (The operator will provide the DM with all information it
possesses concerning the geologic nature of the strata and the pressure
of the well.) If it is not possible to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge plugs to isolate the
hydrocarbon-producing stratum from the expanding cement plug, if the
upper-most hydrocarbon-producing stratum is within 300 feet of the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the operator will place
a minimum of 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet
or greater) of expanding cement below the lowest mineable coal seam,
unless the DM requires a greater distance base on what is required due
to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells to the surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry down the well to form a plug that
runs from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam (or
lower if required by the DM due to the geological strata, or due to
pressure within the well) to the surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds
per square inch. Portland cement or a lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above the top of the uppermost
mineable coal seam (or higher if required by the DM due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well) to the
surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute (API) well number either engraved
or welded on the casing. When the hole cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the operator will use high-resolution
GPS coordinates (one-half meter resolution) to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil and gas wells for subsequent use as
degasification boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping expanding cement
slurry down the tubing to provide at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) of expanding cement below
the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a greater depth
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
The operator will place the expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per square inch and extend the top of
the expanding cement at least 100 feet above the top of the coal seam
being mined, unless the DM requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing into the bedrock of the upper
portion of the degasification well to protect it. The remainder of this
well may be cased or uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification casing with a wellhead,
equipped as required by the DM in the approved ventilation plan. Such
equipment may include check valves, shut-in valves, sampling ports,
flame arrestor equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification well will be addressed in the
approved ventilation plan. This may include periodic tests of methane
levels and limits on the minimum methane concentrations that may be
extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that is degassed by a well is
sealed or the coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas holes using the
following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the drill hole or, if not
possible, to at least 100 feet above the coal seam being mined. Remove
any blockage to ensure that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the tubing until the well is filled to
the surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as
[[Page 47433]]
a permanent magnetic monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a
4\1/2\-inch or larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above
the ground level with the API well number engraved or welded on the
casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
preparing and plugging or replugging oil or gas wells that cannot be
completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel to the well to a depth of at
least 200 feet (or 400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or
greater) below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to pressures within
the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain in the well using a
geophysical sensing device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill into the well from the
parallel hole and perforate or rip all casings at intervals of at least
5 feet from 10 feet below the coal seam to 10 feet above the coal seam.
Beyond that distance, perforate or rip all casings at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. The operator will fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well wall with expanding cement (minimum of
0.5% expansion on setting), and ensure that these areas contain no
voids. When multiple casing and tubing strings are present in the coal
horizons, rip or perforate any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will provide an acceptable casing bond
log for each casing and tubing used in lieu of ripping or perforating
multiple strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic fracturing technique to intercept
the original well where there is sufficient casing in the well to allow
use of the method outlined in paragraph (d)(3) above. Fracture the
original well in at least six places from at least 200 feet (400 feet
if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at least 50 feet above the seam
being mined at intervals to be agreed on by the petitioner and the DM
after considering the geological strata and the pressure within the
well. The operator will pump expanding cement into the fractured well
in sufficient quantities and in a manner that fills all intercepted
voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for the bridge plug. The operator will maintain a
journal describing; the depth and nature of each material encountered;
bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole; the length
and type of each material used to plug the well; length of casing(s)
removed, perforated, ripped, or left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug the open portions of both
holes from the bottom to the surface with Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground
level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures after
approval has been granted by the DM to mine through a plugged or
replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged well, notify the DM or
designee, representative of the miners, and the appropriate State
agency in sufficient time for them to have a representative present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last open crosscut near the place
to be mined to ensure intersection of the well when mining through
wells using continuous mining equipment. The drivage spads will not be
more than 50 feet from the well. Install drivage spads on 10-foot
centers for a distance of 50 feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage spads will also be installed in
the headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, rock
dust, and sufficient fire hose to reach the working face area of the
mine-through (when either the conventional or continuous mining method
is used), will be available and operable during each well mine-through.
The operator will locate the fire hose in the last open crosscut of the
entry or room and maintain the water line to the belt conveyor
tailpiece along with a sufficient amount of fire hose to reach the
farthest point of penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open crosscut, a supply of roof
support and ventilation materials sufficient to ventilate and support
around the well on cut-through. In addition, keep emergency plugs and
suitable sealing materials will be available in the immediate area of
the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining through the well, all equipment
will be serviced and checked for permissibility. Water sprays, water
pressures and water flow rates used for dust and spark suppression will
be examined and any deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on the longwall, continuous
mining machine, or cutting machine and loading machine on the shift
prior to mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test methane levels with a hand-
held methane detector at least every 10 minutes from the time that
mining with the continuous mining machine is within 30 feet of the well
until the well is intersected and immediately prior to mining through
it. No individual is allowed on the return side during the actual
cutting process until the mine-through has been completed and the area
examined and declared safe. All workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from accumulations of coal dust and
coal spillages, and apply rock dust on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well when using
continuous or conventional mining methods. Conduct rock dusting on
longwall sections on the roof, rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well. On longwall
sections, rock dusting will be conducted and place on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when the well is intersected and
thoroughly examine the place and determine it is safe before resuming
mining. After a well has been intersected and the working place
determined safe, mining will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at the coal seam level, the use
of torches should not be necessary. In rare instances, torches may be
used for inadequately or inaccurately cut or milled casings. No open
flame is permitted in the area until adequate ventilation has been
established around the wellbore and methane levels are less
[[Page 47434]]
than 1.0 percent in all areas that will be exposed to flames and sparks
from the torch. The operator will apply a thick layer of rock dust to
the roof, face, floor, ribs, and any exposed coal within 20 feet of the
casing prior to any use of torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be located on the working
section and will be used to expose and examine cased wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in the area of the cut-through
operation except those actually engaged in the mining operation,
including company personnel, representative of the miners, personnel
from MSHA, and personnel from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all personnel in the mine to the
planned intersection of the well prior to their going underground if
the planned intersection is to occur during their shift. This warning
will be repeated for all shifts until the well has been mined through.
(15) A certified official will directly supervise the cut-through
operation and only the certified official in charge will issue
instructions concerning the mine-through operation.
(16) The responsible person required in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be
responsible for well intersection emergencies. The responsible person
will review the well intersection procedures prior to any planned
intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved part 48 training plan
to the DM. The proposed revisions will include initial and refresher
training regarding compliance with the terms and conditions of this
petition for modification. The operator will provide all miners
involved in the mine-through of a well with training regarding the
requirements of this petition for modification prior to mining within
150 feet of the next well to be mined through.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved mine emergency
evacuation and firefighting plan required in 30 CFR 75.1501. The
petitioner will revise the plans to include the hazards and evacuation
procedures to be used for well intersections. All underground miners
will be trained in this revised plan within 30 days of the DM's
approval of the revised evacuation plan. Such training may be done in a
weekly safety meeting or other type of appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times guarantee no less than the same measure or protection
afforded by the existing standard.
Docket Number: M-2016-020-C.
Petitioner: The Ohio County Coal Company, 1 Bridge Street,
Monongah, West Virginia 26554.
Mine: Ohio County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01436, located in Marshall
County, West Virginia.
Regulation Affected: 30 CFR 75.1700 (Oil and gas wells).
Modification Requested: The petitioner requests that the previously
granted petition for modification be amended for the Consolidation Coal
Company, Shoemaker Mine, Docket Number M-1990-066-C (now known as the
Ohio County Coal Company, Ohio County Mine, MSHA I.D. No. 46-01436).
The petitioner states that:
(1) The large majority of petroleum wells in the Marion County Coal
Company Mine were drilled prior to 1930 when no standards for drilling
and plugging existed. Many wells were abandoned during that time.
(2) Extensive research conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines,
Energy Research and Development Administration, MSHA and past
experience by Consolidation Coal Company has disclosed that certain
plugging methods can effectively prevent explosive well gases from
entering the mine during regular mining operations and allow additional
safety and operational benefits that are not possible under Sec.
75.1700.
(3) In lieu of establishing and maintaining barriers around oil and
gas wells, the petitioner proposes to seal the Pittsburgh Coal Seam
from the surrounding strata at the affected wells by using technology
developed through the petitioner's successful well-plugging program.
Since the inception of the well-plugging program, thousands of
previously abandoned oil and gas wells have been effectively plugged
and successfully been mined through or around.
(4) In lieu of the method of plugging oil and gas wells approved in
the previously granted petition, the petitioner proposes an alternative
method that incorporates proven technological advances not available
for plugging oil and gas wells when the previous petition was granted.
As an alternative method of compliance with 30 CFR 75.1700, the
petitioner proposes to maintain a safety barrier of 300 feet in
diameter (150 feet between any mined area and a well) around all oil
and gas wells (defined to include all active, inactive, abandoned,
shut-in, and previously plugged wells, including water injection wells)
until approval to proceed with mining has been obtained from the
District Manager (DM).
Prior to mining through any oil or gas wells, the petitioner will
provide to the DM a declaration stating that all mandatory procedures
for cleaning out, preparing, and plugging each gas or oil well have
been completed. The declaration will be accompanied by logs described
in this petition and any other records that the DM may request. The DM
will review the declaration, the logs and any other records that have
been requested, and may inspect the well, and will then determine if
the operator has complied with the procedures for cleaning out,
preparing and plugging each well. If the DM determines that the
procedures have been complied with and provides an approval, the
operator may then mine within the safety barrier of the well according
to the terms of the Order.
a. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures when
cleaning out and preparing oil and gas wells prior to plugging or
replugging:
(1) If the total depth of the well is less than 4,000 feet, the
operator will completely clean out the well from the surface to at
least 200 feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam unless
the DM requires cleaning to a greater depth based on what is required
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
If the total depth of the well is 4,000 feet or greater, the operator
will completely clean out the well from the surface to at least 400
feet below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam. The operator will
remove all material from the entire diameter of well, wall to wall.
(2) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for a bridge plug. The DM may approve the use of a
down-hole camera survey in lieu of down-hole logs. In addition,
maintain a journal describing: The depth and nature of each material
encountered; bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole;
length and type of each material used to plug the well; the length of
casing(s) removed, perforated or ripped, or left in place; any sections
where casing was cut or milled; and other pertinent information
concerning cleaning and sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(3) Remove all of the casing in the well or, if it is not possible
to remove
[[Page 47435]]
all of the casing, fill the annulus between the casings and between the
casings and the well walls with expanding cement (minimum 0.5 percent
expansion on setting) and ensure that these areas contain no voids. If
the casing cannot be removed, the operator will cut or mill it at all
mineable coal seam levels and perforate or rip it at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the uppermost mineable coal seam. If the operator can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the DM that all annuli in the well
are already adequately sealed with cement using a casing bond log, then
the operator will not be required to perforate or rip the casing for
that particular well. When multiple casing and tubing strings are
present in the coal horizon(s), the operator will perforate or rip any
casing that remains and fill with expanding cement and keep an
acceptable casing bond log for each casing and tubing string used in
lieu of ripping or perforating multiple strings.
(4) Place a mechanical bridge plug in the well if a cleaned-out
well emits excessive amounts of gas. Place the mechanical bridge plug
in a competent stratum at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well
depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable
coal seam, but above the top of the uppermost hydrocarbon-producing
stratum, unless the DM requires a greater distance based on what is
required due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. (The operator will provide the DM with all information it
possesses concerning the geologic nature of the strata and the pressure
of the well.) If it is not possible to set a mechanical bridge plug, an
appropriately sized packer may be used.
(5) Properly place mechanical bridge plugs to isolate the
hydrocarbon-producing stratum from the expanding cement plug, if the
upper-most hydrocarbon-producing stratum is within 300 feet of the base
of the lowest mineable coal seam. Nevertheless, the operator will place
a minimum of 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet
or greater) of expanding cement below the lowest mineable coal seam,
unless the DM requires a greater distance base on what is required due
to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
b. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil or gas wells to the surface:
(1) Pump expanding cement slurry down the well to form a plug that
runs from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam (or
lower if required by the DM due to the geological strata, or due to
pressure within the well) to the surface. The operator will place the
expanding cement in the well under a pressure of at least 200 pounds
per square inch. Portland cement or a lightweight cement mixture may be
used to fill the area from 100 feet above the top of the uppermost
mineable coal seam (or higher if required by the DM due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well) to the
surface.
(2) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the American Petroleum Institute (API) well number either engraved
or welded on the casing. When the hole cannot be marked with a physical
monument (e.g., prime farmland), the operator will use high-resolution
GPS coordinates (one-half meter resolution) to locate the hole.
c. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
plugging or replugging oil and gas wells for subsequent use as
degasification boreholes:
(1) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping expanding cement
slurry down the tubing to provide at least 200 feet (400 feet if the
total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) of expanding cement below
the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a greater depth
due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
The operator will place the expanding cement in the well under a
pressure of at least 200 pounds per square inch and extend the top of
the expanding cement at least 100 feet above the top of the coal seam
being mined, unless the DM requires a greater distance due to the
geological strata, or due to the pressure within the well.
(2) Securely grout a suitable casing into the bedrock of the upper
portion of the degasification well to protect it. The remainder of this
well may be cased or uncased.
(3) Fit the top of the degasification casing with a wellhead,
equipped as required by the DM in the approved ventilation plan. Such
equipment may include check valves, shut-in valves, sampling ports,
flame arrestor equipment, and security fencing.
(4) Operation of the degasification well will be addressed in the
approved ventilation plan. This may include periodic tests of methane
levels and limits on the minimum methane concentrations that may be
extracted.
(5) After the area of the coal mine that is degassed by a well is
sealed or the coal mine is abandoned, seal the degas holes using the
following procedures:
(i) Insert a tube to the bottom of the drill hole or, if not
possible, to at least 100 feet above the coal seam being mined. Remove
any blockage to ensure that the tube is inserted to this depth.
(ii) Set a cement plug in the well by pumping Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture down the tubing until the well is filled to
the surface.
(iii) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground level
with the API well number engraved or welded on the casing.
d. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures for
preparing and plugging or replugging oil or gas wells that cannot be
completely cleaned out:
(1) Drill a hole adjacent and parallel to the well to a depth of at
least 200 feet (or 400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or
greater) below the lowest mineable coal seam, unless the DM requires a
greater depth due to the geological strata, or due to pressures within
the well.
(2) Locate any casing that may remain in the well using a
geophysical sensing device.
(3) If the well contains casings, drill into the well from the
parallel hole and perforate or rip all casings at intervals of at least
5 feet from 10 feet below the coal seam to 10 feet above the coal seam.
Beyond that distance, perforate or rip all casings at least every 50
feet from at least 200 feet (400 feet if the total well depth is 4,000
feet or greater) below the base of the lowest mineable coal seam up to
100 feet above the seam being mined, unless the DM requires a greater
distance due to the geological strata, or due to the pressure within
the well. The operator will fill the annulus between the casings and
between the casings and the well wall with expanding cement (minimum of
0.5% expansion on setting), and ensure that these areas contain no
voids. When multiple casing and tubing strings are present in the coal
horizons, rip or perforate any casing that remains and fill with
expanding cement. The operator will provide an acceptable casing bond
log
[[Page 47436]]
for each casing and tubing used in lieu of ripping or perforating
multiple strings.
(4) Use a horizontal hydraulic fracturing technique to intercept
the original well where there is sufficient casing in the well to allow
use of the method outlined in paragraph (d)(3) above. Fracture the
original well in at least six places from at least 200 feet (400 feet
if the total well depth is 4,000 feet or greater) below the base of the
lowest mineable coal seam to a point at least 50 feet above the seam
being mined at intervals to be agreed on by the petitioner and the DM
after considering the geological strata and the pressure within the
well. The operator will pump expanding cement into the fractured well
in sufficient quantities and in a manner that fills all intercepted
voids.
(5) Prepare down-hole logs for each well. The logs will consist of
a caliper survey and be suitable for determining the top, bottom, and
thickness of all coal seams and potential hydrocarbon-producing strata
and the location for the bridge plug. The operator will maintain a
journal describing; the depth and nature of each material encountered;
bit size and type used to drill each portion of the hole; the length
and type of each material used to plug the well; length of casing(s)
removed, perforated, ripped, or left in place; and other pertinent
information concerning sealing the well. Invoices, work-orders, and
other records relating to all work on the well will be maintained as
part of the journal and provided to MSHA on request.
(6) After the plugging the well, plug the open portions of both
holes from the bottom to the surface with Portland cement or a
lightweight cement mixture.
(7) Embed steel turnings or other small magnetic particles in the
top of the cement near the surface to serve as a permanent magnetic
monument of the well. In the alternative, extend a 4\1/2\-inch or
larger casing, set in cement, at least 36 inches above the ground
level.
e. The petitioner proposes to use the following procedures after
approval has been granted by the DM to mine through a plugged or
replugged well:
(1) Prior to cutting-through a plugged well, notify the DM or
designee, representative of the miners, and the appropriate State
agency in sufficient time for them to have a representative present.
(2) Install drivage spads at the last open crosscut near the place
to be mined to ensure intersection of the well when mining through
wells using continuous mining equipment. The drivage spads will not be
more than 50 feet from the well. Install drivage spads on 10-foot
centers for a distance of 50 feet in advance of the well when using
longwall-mining methods. The drivage spads will also be installed in
the headgate.
(3) Firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, rock
dust, and sufficient fire hose to reach the working face area of the
mine-through (when either the conventional or continuous mining method
is used), will be available and operable during each well mine-through.
The operator will locate the fire hose in the last open crosscut of the
entry or room and maintain the water line to the belt conveyor
tailpiece along with a sufficient amount of fire hose to reach the
farthest point of penetration on the section.
(4) Keep available at the last open crosscut, a supply of roof
support and ventilation materials sufficient to ventilate and support
around the well on cut-through. In addition, keep emergency plugs and
suitable sealing materials will be available in the immediate area of
the well intersection.
(5) On the shift prior to mining through the well, all equipment
will be serviced and checked for permissibility. Water sprays, water
pressures and water flow rates used for dust and spark suppression will
be examined and any deficiencies will be corrected.
(6) Calibrate the methane monitors on the longwall, continuous
mining machine, or cutting machine and loading machine on the shift
prior to mining through the well.
(7) When mining is in progress, test methane levels with a hand-
held methane detector at least every 10 minutes from the time that
mining with the continuous mining machine is within 30 feet of the well
until the well is intersected and immediately prior to mining through
it. No individual is allowed on the return side during the actual
cutting process until the mine-through has been completed and the area
examined and declared safe. All workplace examinations will be
conducted on the return side of the shearer while the shearer is idle.
(8) Keep the working place free from accumulations of coal dust and
coal spillages, and apply rock dust on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well when using
continuous or conventional mining methods. Conduct rock dusting on
longwall sections on the roof, rib, and floor up to both the headgate
and tailgate gob.
(9) When using continuous or conventional mining methods, the
working places will be free of accumulations of coal dust and coal
spillages, and rock dust will be applied on the roof, rib, and floor to
within 20 feet of the face when mining through the well. On longwall
sections, rock dusting will be conducted and place on the roof, rib,
and floor up to both the headgate and tailgate gob.
(10) Deenergize all equipment when the well is intersected and
thoroughly examine the place and determine it is safe before resuming
mining. After a well has been intersected and the working place
determined safe, mining will continue inby the well at a distance
sufficient to permit adequate ventilation around the area of the well.
(11) If the casing is cut or milled at the coal seam level, the use
of torches should not be necessary. In rare instances, torches may be
used for inadequately or inaccurately cut or milled casings. No open
flame is permitted in the area until adequate ventilation has been
established around the wellbore and methane levels are less than 1.0
percent in all areas that will be exposed to flames and sparks from the
torch. The operator will apply a thick layer of rock dust to the roof,
face, floor, ribs, and any exposed coal within 20 feet of the casing
prior to any use of torches.
(12) Non-sparking (brass) tools will be located on the working
section and will be used to expose and examine cased wells.
(13) No person will be permitted in the area of the cut-through
operation except those actually engaged in the mining operation,
including company personnel, representative of the miners, personnel
from MSHA, and personnel from the appropriate State agency.
(14) The operator will alert all personnel in the mine to the
planned intersection of the well prior to their going underground if
the planned intersection is to occur during their shift. This warning
will be repeated for all shifts until the well has been mined through.
(15) A certified official will directly supervise the cut-through
operation and only the certified official in charge will issue
instructions concerning the mine-through operation.
(16) The responsible person required in 30 CFR 75.1501 will be
responsible for well intersection emergencies. The responsible person
will review the well intersection procedures prior to any planned
intersection.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved part 48 training plan
to the DM. The proposed revisions will include initial and refresher
training regarding compliance with the terms and conditions of this
petition for modification. The operator will provide
[[Page 47437]]
all miners involved in the mine-through of a well with training
regarding the requirements of this petition for modification prior to
mining within 150 feet of the next well to be mined through.
Within 30 days after this petition becomes final, the petitioner
will submit proposed revisions for its approved mine emergency
evacuation and firefighting plan required in 30 CFR 75.1501. The
petitioner will revise the plans to include the hazards and evacuation
procedures to be used for well intersections. All underground miners
will be trained in this revised plan within 30 days of the DM's
approval of the revised evacuation plan. Such training may be done in a
weekly safety meeting or other type of appropriate setting.
The petitioner asserts that the proposed alternative method will at
all times guarantee no less than the same measure or protection
afforded by the existing standard.
Sheila McConnell,
Director, Office of Standards, Regulations, and Variances.
[FR Doc. 2016-17173 Filed 7-20-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4520-43-P