Davitt McAteer, Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) administrator since 1994, accepted a position as a member of the Department of Labor''s Benefits Review Board.
The board considers and decides appeals of decisions by administrative law judges under the Black Lung Benefits Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers'' Compensation Act.
McAteer''s appointment took effect Dec. 31.
MSHA''s Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Elam, will serve as acting assistant secretary.
During the nearly seven years that he directed MSHA, McAteer was responsible for administration of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977, a law intended to reduce mining accidents and health hazards.
Before his appointment to lead MSHA, McAteer was executive director of the Occupational Safety and Health Law Center.
by Virginia Sutcliffe