Alternate Locking Devices for Plug and Receptacle-Type Connectors on Mobile Battery-Powered Machines

MSHA is amending the existing regulation by allowing the optional use of alternative locking devices to secure battery plugs to receptacles. The final rule eliminates the need to file petitions for modification to use this alternative means of securing battery plugs to receptacles. MSHA initially proposed using direct final rulemaking for this action because the Agency expected that there would be no significant adverse comments on the rule. However, MSHA received four comments, one of which was considered a significant adverse comment, resulting in MSHA withdrawing the direct final rule and proceeding with rulemaking based on the concurrently published proposed rule on this subject.