The Task Force was assembled back in March to help provide technical assistance to the state Office of Miner's Health, Safety, and Training.

The group is made of labor and coal operators.

They are fine-tuning the language in the emergency rules enacted to help miners get to the surface in the event of an underground accident.

"I think they've done a very thorough job, and again, with industry and labor coming together, agreeing on things, I think that makes sense," said Acting Director Jimmy Dean.

Dean says he's expecting the final report from the task force by next Monday.

The panel has been working on its recommentdations for nearly 3 months.

Besides new technologies, the task force is placing additional emphasis on education, training, and other measures aimed at preventing mining accidents.