The new regulations will be incorporated into the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations which were revised in 2009. This will streamline and provide easier access to users who will only need to refer to one set of regulations as opposed to multiple. A copy of the draft regulations will be provided to targeted stakeholders and a copy can also be accessed at www.gov.nl.ca/gs/consultation.

In addition to the draft regulations, the Occupational Health and Safety Branch is also looking for input into the new Safety Standard for Mine Hoisting Operations. The standard outlines qualifications for hoist operators and the requirements for proper maintenance, documentation and communication related to mine hoisting equipment.

"We had great success during our consultations to develop the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations with valuable feedback from various interest groups and we expect that this consultation will be just as successful," said Minister O'Brien. "The proposed Mines Safety of Workers Regulations is a comprehensive and technical document designed to ensure employers and employees know exactly what is required of them. However, we need to ensure that they are user-friendly and reflect current practices and that is why these consultations are so important and necessary. We look forward to any and all comments and suggestions to ensure we have the best set of regulations possible."

In addition to targeted consultations, interested groups and individuals can submit feedback by e-mailing written submissions to minesconsultation@gov.nl.ca  or sending via mail to:

Written submissions must be received by November 30, 2010. For more information please visit the Department of Government Services website at www.gov.nl.ca/gs/consultation.

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