Should tree cutting be included as part of a required ground control plan?
A. No, tree cutting as such is not a component of ground control, which serves to stabilize mining features such as highwalls, pits, spoil banks, and benches. 17. Q. When will MSHA commence inspection of tree cutting that is in advance of any mining and under MSHAs jurisdiction? A. Once MSHA is aware of the tree cutting; MSHA will inspect and assure training is provided as appropriate. 18. Q. Generally, what is the scope of MSHAs inspection of tree cutting? A. The inspection should take into account the developmental nature of the activity. The purpose is to check that the tree cutters have completed training as required. Compliance with other appropriate MSHA requirements should be checked such as PPE, noise, communications and guarding. Where MSHA has no standards specifically addressing tree cutting methods or techniques, MSHA will rely on training to cover acceptable safe practices, unless an imminent danger is present. 19. Q. What action should an inspector take in situations wher
