Section 690-240 - Instruction of employees and examination of working areas(a) General rule.--The mine foreman or assistant mine foreman shall ascertain that all workmen are trained in the proper methods of testing roof, face and ribs. The mine foreman shall designate the tool or tools to be used for testing. Employees whose work exposes them to hazards or falls of roof and coal shall thoroughly test the roof, face and ribs before starting to work or before starting a machine and frequently thereafter.(b) Examination for date marks.--A miner shall examine his place to determine whether the mine examiner has left the date marks indicating his examination thereof. If date marks cannot be found, the miner shall notify the mine foreman or assistant mine foreman of that fact.(c) Correction of unsafe roof, face or rib conditions.--(1) If roof, face or rib conditions are found to be unsafe, they shall be corrected by taking down loose material or shall be securely supported before work is started.(2) If roof, face or rib conditions are found to be unsafe and normal taking down or supporting practices cannot correct the unsafe condition, the place shall be vacated and guarded or a danger sign erected to prevent unauthorized entrance, and the certified mine official in charge promptly shall be notified. Only individuals capable of correcting the dangerous condition may be delegated to do such work.(3) The certified mine official in charge shall examine for unsafe conditions and the roof, faces, ribs and timbers or supports of all working places each time they visit a place. Unsafe conditions found shall be corrected promptly. All employees shall notify the mine foreman or assistant mine foreman of an unsafe condition in the mine when the condition is known to them.2008, July 7, P.L. 654, No. 55, §240, effective in 180 days [ 1/5/2009].