(a) If there is a change in operational status that affects the respirable dust sampling requirements of this part, the operator shall report the change in operational status of the mine, mechanized mining unit, or designated area to the MSHA District Office or to any other MSHA office designated by the District Manager. Status changes shall be reported in writing or electronically within 3 working days after the status change has occurred.

(b) Each specific operational status is defined as follows:

(1) Underground mine:

(i) Producing—has at least one MMU unit producing material.

(ii) Nonproducing—no material is being produced.

(iii) Abandoned—the work of all miners has been terminated and production activity has ceased.

(2) MMU:

(i) Producing—producing material from a working section.

(ii) Nonproducing—temporarily ceased production of material.

(iii) Abandoned—permanently ceased production of material.

(3) DA:

(i) Producing—activity is occurring.

(ii) Nonproducing—activity has ceased.

(iii) Abandoned—the dust generating source has been withdrawn and activity has ceased.