What is necessary to establish the identification of permissible equipment in mines?

To establish the identification of permissible equipment in mines, the presence of a USBM (United States Bureau of Mines) or MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) approval plate is essential. This plate serves as an official designation, confirming that the equipment has been tested and meets specific safety standards required for use in mining operations.

The approval plate indicates that the equipment has undergone rigorous examination for safety and performance in potentially hazardous environments, ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect mine workers. This is particularly important in mines where explosive gases and coal dust may be present, as permissible equipment must be constructed in a way that minimizes the risk of ignition and enhances overall safety.

In contrast, a safety report, while it may provide useful information on the condition and functioning of the equipment, does not serve as an official identification of the equipment's compliance with safety standards. Similarly, a federal license and a manufacturer's warranty are not direct indicators of the equipment's tested safety for mining environments. Therefore, the correct approach to ensuring the identification of permissible equipment is through the use of the approved plates issued by regulatory bodies.