We have received reports from across the U.S. that Standard 56/57.20010 Retaining Dams is being cited by MSHA relative to waste and settling ponds! We recommend that you download the Procedure Instruction Letter so that you can be familiar with the requirements and prepared to furnish the required information.

Attached is a blank copy of the MSHA Impoundment Information Form.  I suggest you start getting this information together in anticipation of your next inspection. You can download the Procedure Instruction letter from: http://www.msha.gov/regs/complian/PILS/2005/PIL05-IV-1.asp.

My information is that this may occur before your next regular inspection as it is called for bi-annually and assigned from the District Office. Having the form filled out with all of the info you can supply and handing it to the Inspector for completion of his part will show him that you are on-top of MSHA’s requirements and will get the inspector off property quicker.