W. Va. Code R. § 56-20-10
Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024
Section 56-20-10 - Escapeways and Refuges10.1. Escapeways. - Underground Only. 10.1.a. Every mine shall have two (2) or more separate, properly maintained escapeways to the surface. A method of refuge shall be provided while a second opening to the surface is being developed. A second escapeway is recommended, but not required, during the exploration or development of an ore body.10.1.b. In addition to separate escapeways, a method of refuge shall be provided for every employee who cannot reach the surface from his working place through at least two (2) separate escapeways within a time limit of one (1) hour when using the normal exit method. These refuges must be positioned so that the employee can reach one of them within thirty (30) minutes from the time he/she leaves his/her workplace. 10.1.c. Communication with refuge chambers. Telephone or other voice communication shall be provided between the surface and refuge chambers and such systems shall be independent of the mine power supply.10.1.d. Escapeways. 10.1.d.1. Escape routes shall be: 10.1.d.1.A. Inspected at regular intervals and maintained in a safe, travelable condition;10.1.d.1.B. Marked with conspicuous and easily read direction signs that clearly indicate the ways of escape. 10.1.e. Escape and evacuation plans. A specific escape and evacuation plan and revisions thereof suitable to the conditions and mining system of the mine and showing assigned responsibilities of all key personnel in the event of an emergency shall be developed by the operator and set out in written form. Within forty-five (45) calendar days after promulgation of this rule, a copy of the plan and revisions thereof shall be available to an authorized representative of the Director. Also, copies of the plan and revisions thereof shall be posted at locations convenient to all persons on the surface and underground. Such a plan shall be updated as necessary and reviewed with employees. 10.1.e.1. The plan shall include: 10.1.e.1.A. Mine maps or diagrams showing directions of principal air flow, location of escape routes and locations of existing telephones, primary fans, primary fan controls, fire doors, ventilation doors, and refuge chambers. Appropriate portions of such maps or diagrams shall be posted at all shaft stations and in underground shops, lunchrooms, and elsewhere in working areas where persons congregate;10.1.e.1.B. Procedures to show how the miners will be notified of emergency,10.1.e.1.C. An escape plan for each working area in the mine to include instructions showing how each working area should be evacuated. Each such plan shall be posted at appropriate shaft stations and elsewhere in working areas where persons congregate;10.1.e.1.D. A fire fighting plan;10.1.e.1.E. Surface procedure to follow in an emergency, including the notification of proper authorities, preparing rescue equipment, and other equipment which maybe used in rescue and recovery operations; and10.1.e.1.F. A statement of the availability of emergency communication and transportation facilities, emergency power and ventilation and location of rescue personnel and equipment.10.1.f. Check-in, check-out system. 10.1.f.1. Each operator of an underground mine shall establish a check-in and checkout system which shall provide an accurate record of persons in the mine. These records shall be kept on the surface in a place chosen to minimize the danger of destruction by fire or other hazards. Every person underground shall carry a positive means of being identified. 10.1.g. Provisions and maintenance of self-rescue devices. 10.1.g.1. A one-hour self-rescue device approved by MSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) shall be made available by the operator to all personnel underground. Each operator shall maintain self-rescue devices in good condition.10.1.h. Location of self-rescue devices.10.1.h.1. Self-rescue devices shall be worn or carried by all persons underground except: 10.1.h.1.A. Where the wearing or carrying of self-rescue devices is hazardous to a person, such self-rescue devices shall be located at a distance no greater than twenty-five (25) feet from such person.10.1.h.1.B. Where a person works on or around mobile equipment, self-rescue devices may be placed in a readily accessible location on such equipment.10.1.i. Two-way communication equipment for underground operations. 10.1.i.1. Telephones or other two-way communication equipment with instructions for their use shall be provided for communication from underground operations to the surface. W. Va. Code R. § 56-20-10