Forms now available through the MSHA web site include legal identification forms used by new mine operators and independent contractors who need to register their operations with the agency.

Other forms include those for reporting quarterly employment and production and hazardous condition complaints, as well as those for submitting training plans, dust control plans, and forms for requesting petitions for modification, among many others.

"The department's new service promotes increased efficiency and cuts red tape for mining industry stakeholders as they file forms or provide information required by MSHA rules," said MSHA’s Dave Lauriski.

"The expanded Web site services also allow mine operators to spend less time processing forms and, hopefully, more time focusing on the safety and health of working miners,” he said.

To file forms users can access the MSHA web site at www.msha.gov and click on "Forms/Online Filing" located under the "Quick Links" section on the left side of MSHA's homepage.

Users who have questions about the use of the service may call the helpdesk at 1-877-778-6055 or send an e-mail to helpdesk@msha.gov.