reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-741. Hoisting engineers

A. If miners are transported into or out of an underground area of a mine by a hoist or on a surface incline, a certified hoisting engineer shall be either on duty continuously or available within a reasonable time, as determined by the Chief, to provide immediate transportation while any person is underground.
B. When any miner is being hoisted or lowered in a shaft or on a slope or surface incline, the loading and unloading of any miner and the movement of the cage, car, or trip shall be under the direction of an authorized person.
C. Subsections A and B shall not apply to automatically operated elevators that can be safely operated by any miner; however, a person qualified as an automatic elevator operator shall be available at any such elevator within a reasonable time, as determined by the Chief.
D. An operator or agent of such operator of any mine worked by shaft, slope, or surface incline shall place a competent and sober hoisting engineer in charge of any engine or drum used for lowering or hoisting miners. No hoisting engineer in charge of such machinery shall allow any person, except a person who is designated for such purpose by the operator or his agent, to interfere with any part of the machinery. No person shall interfere with or intimidate a hoisting engineer or automatic elevator operator who is engaged in the discharge of his duties.
Code 1950, §§ 45-7, 45-12, 45-68.4, 45-69, 45-73, 45-75, 45-78, 45-79, 45-81, 45-83; 1950, p. 156; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-21, 45.1-68, 45.1-69; 1972, c. 784; 1976, c. 598; 1978, cc. 222, 489, 729; 1982, c. 255; 1984, cc. 178, 590; 1988, c. 577; 1993, cc. 171, 442; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.159; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-742. Operations of hoisting equipment

A. The speed of the cage, car, or trip in a shaft or slope or on a surface incline shall not exceed 1,000 feet per minute when a miner is being hoisted or lowered.
B. When moving the platform or work deck, every miner traveling thereon shall have a safety belt secured.
C. No miner shall ride on a loaded cage.
D. The number of miners riding in any cage or car at one time shall not exceed the maximum prescribed by the manufacturer. The Chief may prescribe a lesser number when necessary to ensure the safety of miners being transported.
E. Any conveyance being lowered into a shaft in which a miner is working shall be stopped at least 20 feet above the area where such miner is working.
F. If any miner is working at the bottom of a shaft, there shall be an adjustable ladder or chain ladder attached to the work deck to provide an additional means of escape. Such ladder shall be at least 20 feet in length.
G. Every choker or sling used to transport materials within a shaft or slope shall meet specifications established by the American National Standards Institute.
Code 1950, § 45-68.4; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-68, 45.1-69; 1972, c. 784; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.160; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-743. Maintenance of hoisting equipment

Every hoist, rope, cage, and other component of any piece of hoisting equipment shall be maintained in a safe operating condition, as directed by the Chief. A hoisting rope shall be replaced as soon as there is evidence of possible failure.
Code 1950, §§ 45-68.4, 45-69.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-68, 45.1-72; 1972, c. 784; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.161; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-744. Haulage roads

A. The roadbed, rails, joints, switches, frogs, and other elements of the track of each haulage road shall be constructed, installed, and maintained in a manner that ensures the safe operation of the haulage road. In determining its safety, consideration shall be given to the speed of equipment and the type of haulage operations conducted on the haulage road.
B. Haulage tracks shall be kept free of accumulations of coal spillage and debris, and water shall not be allowed to accumulate over the top of the rail.
C. Every off-track haulage equipment operator shall observe the haulage road for hazardous conditions during the course of travel and shall promptly correct or report to the mine foreman any hazardous condition observed.
D. Each off-track haulage road shall be maintained reasonably free of bottom irregularities, excess spillage, debris, wet or muddy conditions that make controlling off-track haulage equipment difficult, and any accumulation of water over such an area of the haulage road and in such a depth as to allow water to enter an electrical panel and create a potentially hazardous condition.
E. No uninsulated trolley lines shall be used or installed in any underground coal mine without approval of the Chief.
Code 1950, § 45-69.4; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-70; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.133; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-745. Track switches and rails

A. Every track switch shall be provided with a properly installed throw and properly installed latches and bridle bars.
B. Every track switch, other than a switch in a room or entry development, shall be equipped with properly installed guardrails.
C. Every switch throw and stand shall be installed on the side of the track where clearance is provided.
D. Every rail shall be secured at all joints by plates or welds.
Code 1950, §§ 45-69.1, 45-69.4; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-70, 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.134; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-746. Clearance on haulage roads

A. Every track haulage road in an entry, room, or crosscut shall have a continuous clearance on one side of at least two feet from the farthest projection of moving traffic. The clearance shall be kept free of any obstruction to a height permitted by the height of the coal seam. When it is not possible to maintain such clearance, signs indicating close clearance shall be posted inby and outby the affected area.
B. Every track haulage road in an entry, room, or crosscut shall have a continuous clearance on the side opposite the clearance required by subsection A of at least six inches from the farthest projection of moving traffic. When it is not possible to maintain such clearance, signs indicating close clearance shall be posted inby and outby the affected area.
C. Each track haulage road where trolley lines are used shall have the clearance required by subsection A on the side of the track opposite the trolley lines. This requirement shall not apply if the trolley lines are at least 6.5 feet above the rail.
D. The clearance space on each track haulage road shall be kept free of loose rock, loose coal, loose supplies, and other loose materials. If the clearance space exceeds two feet, at least two feet of the clearance space shall be kept free of such materials.
E. Every parallel track shall be installed so as to provide a clearance of at least two feet between the outermost projections of passing traffic.
F. Ample clearance shall be provided (i) at each conveyor loading head, (ii) at each conveyor control panel, and (iii) along each conveyor line.
G. Every belt conveyor shall be equipped with a control switch to automatically stop the driving motor in the event that the belt is stopped by slipping on the driving pulley as a result of breakage or other accident.
Code 1950, §§ 45-14.1, 45-69.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-71, 45.1-89; 1974, c. 323; 1978, c. 118; 1984, c. 590; 1985, c. 500; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.135; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-747. Conveyor crossings

Suitable facilities for crossing a conveyor belt shall be provided where it is necessary for miners to cross such conveyor belt regularly.
Code 1950, § 45-69.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-71; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.136; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-748. Shelter holes

A. Every haulage road shall have shelter holes at intervals not to exceed the interval permitted by the roof control plan for crosscuts. Except at a point where more than six feet of side clearance, measured from the rail, is maintained, or at a room switch, a shelter hole shall be provided at each manually operated door and at each switch throw.
B. Except for shelter holes at an underground slope landing where miners pass and cars are handled, each shelter hole shall have (i) a depth of at least five feet; (ii) a width of at most four feet, unless a room neck or crosscut width exceeding four feet is used as a shelter hole; and (iii) a height of at least six feet or, if the height of the traveling space is less than six feet, a height equivalent to that of the traveling space.
C. Every shelter hole at an underground slope landing where miners pass and cars are handled shall be at least (i) 10 feet in depth, (ii) four feet in width, and (iii) six feet in height.
D. Every shelter hole shall be kept free of refuse, loose roof, and other obstructions.
Code 1950, § 45-69.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-71; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.137; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-749. Refuge from moving traffic

Upon the approach of moving traffic, any miner not engaged in haulage operations shall take refuge in a shelter hole or other place of safety.
Code 1950, § 45-69.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-71; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.138; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-750. Inspection of underground equipment

Once per week, or more often if necessary, the mine foreman or a certified person shall inspect electrical and diesel transportation equipment to ensure its safe operating condition. Such equipment located on the surface shall be inspected once per month, or more often if necessary. Such person shall correct any defect found during the inspection. A record of such examinations shall be maintained.
1966, c. 594, § 45.1-85; 1978, c. 118; 1993, c. 442; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.139; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-751. Maintenance of equipment

Every locomotive, mine car, shuttle car, supply car, conveyor, piece of self-propelled mobile equipment, and other piece of equipment shall be maintained in a safe operating condition.
Code 1950, § 45-69.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-72; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.140; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-752. Self-propelled equipment

A. Every piece of self-propelled mobile transportation or haulage equipment for use underground shall be equipped with safe seating facilities for the person operating the equipment unless it is equipped for remote control operation. Where seating facilities are provided on a piece of self-propelled mobile equipment, the person operating such equipment shall be seated before the equipment is put into motion.
B. Every piece of track-mounted equipment shall be equipped with proper lifting devices for the rerailing of such equipment.
C. An audible warning device and headlights shall be provided on each locomotive, shuttle car, or other piece of self-propelled mobile transportation or haulage equipment.
D. A trip light capable of being seen for at least 300 feet underground shall be used on the rear of any trip that is pulled and on the front of any pushed trip or trip that is lowered on a slope; however, a trip light need not be used if a locomotive is used on each end of a trip.
E. Effective measures, including use of a trailing locomotive, slides, skids, or drags, shall be taken during track haulage to ensure that safe control is maintained when a grade creates a potential hazard.
F. Where block signals are used, procedures to safely control traffic movement within the system shall be established in writing and posted and reviewed with all miners.
Code 1950, §§ 45-69.1, 45-69.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-72, 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.141; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-753. Pushing cars

Pushing any car on a main haulage road is prohibited except (i) where it is necessary to push a car from a sidetrack that is located near the working section to the producing entry or room; (ii) where it is necessary to clear a switch or sidetrack; and (iii) on the approach to a cage, slope, or surface incline. However, where a rail transportation system is utilized and it becomes necessary to routinely push cars, the operator shall develop procedures for coordination and control of rail traffic, such as the provision of effective trip lights or other warning devices, and other safety precautions specific to the mine. Such procedures shall be subject to approval of the Chief.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.142; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-754. Transportation of material

A. Any equipment, material, or supplies being transported shall be loaded in a manner that protects the operator and other personnel from sliding equipment, material, or supplies.
B. Any equipment, material, or supplies that are not necessary for the operation of a piece of self-propelled mobile equipment shall not be transported on such equipment, except for when the mobile equipment is designed to carry such materials or supplies and no hazard is created. Only small hand tools and materials or supplies that do not create hazards may be transported in the same compartment of a mantrip where any miner is seated.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.143; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-755. Securing cars

A. A standing car on any track, unless it is held effectively by brakes, shall be properly blocked to prevent movement.
B. Positive-acting stopblocks or derails shall be used when necessary to protect miners from the hazard of runaway rail equipment. Derails shall be located where a grade at the entrance or any other location in the mine creates a potential collision hazard.
C. Safety chains, steel ropes, or other effective devices capable of holding the load shall be used to prevent a runaway mantrip or other supply car.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.144; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-756. Riding on cars

A. No person other than the motorman and the trip rider shall ride on a locomotive unless authorized by the mine foreman.
B. No person shall ride on a loaded car or between cars of any trip.
C. No person shall get on or off a moving locomotive or a car that is being moved by a locomotive.
D. No person shall be allowed to ride on top of a piece of self-propelled mobile equipment.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.145; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-757. Back-poling

Back-poling shall be prohibited except (i) at a place where the trolley pole cannot be reversed or (ii) when going up an extremely steep grade. In such circumstances, back-poling shall occur only at very slow speed.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.146; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-758. Operation of equipment

A. Every operator of self-propelled mobile haulage equipment shall face in the direction of travel except when the equipment is being loaded and is under the boom of the loading equipment.
B. Every track haulage car that requires coupling and uncoupling shall be equipped with automatic couplers or devices designed to allow coupling and uncoupling without exposing miners between such equipment. Specialty cars designed with safe clearance when connecting to other cars are excluded from the provisions of this subsection.
C. Every person operating self-propelled haulage equipment shall sound a warning before starting such equipment and on approaching any curve, sidetrack, door, curtain, manway crossing, or other place where a miner is or is likely to be.
D. All rail equipment shall be operated at speeds that are safe for the condition of any rail installation, grade, or clearance encountered. When rail equipment is being operated at a normal safe speed, a distance of 300 feet shall be maintained from the rear of other rail equipment in operation, except for a trailing locomotive that is an integral part of the trip.
E. All persons shall stand in the clear during any switching operation.
F. No two pieces of self-propelled mobile mining equipment traveling in opposite directions inside a coal mine shall be allowed to pass each other while both are in motion on the same haulage road unless a distance of at least two feet is maintained between the vehicles.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.147; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-759. Dispatchers

Where a dispatcher is employed to control trips at a mine, traffic under his jurisdiction shall be moved only at his direction. The dispatcher shall be stationed on the surface at the mine.
Code 1950, § 45-69.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-73; 1979, c. 315; 1983, c. 70; 1985, c. 302; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.148; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-760. Availability of mantrips

The operator or his agent shall maintain a mantrip or other equipment suitable for providing reasonable access within a reasonable time to any area of the mine where miners are working and where transportation is ordinarily provided. The suitability of the equipment and the reasonableness of the time required to reach such an area of the mine shall be determined by the Chief.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.149; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-761. Mantrips

A. Each mantrip that is operated by means of a locomotive shall be pulled and operated at a safe speed that is consistent with the condition of the road and the type of equipment used and shall be so controlled that it can be stopped within the limits of the operator's visibility.
B. Each mantrip shall be under the charge of an authorized person and operated independently of any loaded trip.
C. Each mantrip shall be maintained in safe operating condition. Mantrips shall be provided in sufficient number to prevent any mantrip from becoming overloaded.
D. No person shall ride under a trolley wire other than in a suitably covered mantrip. A covered mantrip shall not be required under trolley wires that are guarded or positioned in accordance with subsection F of § 45.2-808.
E. Other than small hand tools carried on the person, no supplies, tools, or materials shall be transported in the same car or cage with miners on any mantrip, except in a special compartment in the car designed for such purpose.
F. No miner shall board or leave a moving mantrip car. Each miner shall remain seated while in a moving car and shall proceed in an orderly manner to and from a mantrip.
Code 1950, § 45-69.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-74; 1985, c. 296; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.150; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-762. Mantrip loading and unloading areas

A. Any area used regularly for loading or unloading mantrips shall be kept clear and free of obstructions and have ample clearance for moving equipment. Each miner shall remain in such area until the mantrip is ready to load.
B. Trolley and power wires shall be guarded effectively at any area where persons regularly load or unload from mantrips or cages and where there is a possibility that a person could come into contact with energized electric wiring while boarding or disembarking the mantrip or cage.
Code 1950, § 45-69.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-74; 1985, c. 296; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.151; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-763. Transporting miners by conveyor belt

A. If a conveyor belt is used for transporting miners, such belt shall be free of loose materials and shall maintain a minimum clearance of at least 18 inches between the belt and the overhead roof or crossbars, projecting equipment, cap pieces, overhead cables, wiring, and other objects. Each conveyor belt that is used for transporting miners shall be equipped with emergency stop cords for its entire length.
B. The conveyor belt speed while miners are being transported shall not exceed (i) 250 feet per minute if the overhead clearance maintained pursuant to subsection A is more than 18 inches but less than 24 inches and (ii) 300 feet per minute if the overhead clearance is 24 inches or more. Such conveyor belt shall be stopped while miners are boarding or disembarking.
C. The space between miners riding on a conveyor belt line shall be at least five feet.
D. Adequate clearance and proper illumination shall be provided where miners board or disembark a conveyor belt.
Code 1950, § 45-69.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-74; 1985, c. 296; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.152; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-764. Housekeeping; noxious fumes

A. Good housekeeping shall be practiced in and around every building, shaft, slope, yard, or other area of a mine. Such practice includes cleanliness, orderly storage of materials, and the removal of possible sources of injury, such as stumbling hazards, protruding nails, broken glass, and possible falling and rolling materials.
B. Painting or conducting any operation that creates noxious fumes shall be performed only in a well-ventilated atmosphere.
C. Every surface mine structure, enclosure, or other facility shall be maintained in good repair.
Code 1950, §§ 45-85.5, 45-85.8; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-34, 45.1-37; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.236; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-765. Lighting

A. Lights shall be provided as needed in or on a surface mine structure, enclosure, or other facility.
B. Each road, path, or walk outside of a structure, enclosure, or other facility shall be kept free from obstructions and shall be well-illuminated if it is used at night.
1966, c. 594, § 45.1-38; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.237; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-766. Flammable or combustible materials

A. Oil, grease, and any similar flammable or combustible material shall be kept in a closed container, separate from other materials, so as to prevent any fire hazard to nearby buildings or mines. If oil, grease, or any similar flammable material is stored in a building, the building or room in which it is stored shall be of fireproof construction and well-ventilated.
B. Any oily rag, oily waste, or wastepaper shall be kept in a closed metal container until removed for disposal.
C. The area within 100 feet of each mine opening shall be kept free of flammable or combustible material; however, this provision shall not apply to the temporary storage of not more than a one-day's supply of such material.
D. Every oxygen or acetylene bottle shall be (i) secured when not in use and (ii) stored with its cap in place in a rack constructed and designated for the storage of such bottles. Smoking shall be prohibited in any place where such materials are stored. Signs indicating that smoking is prohibited in the area shall be posted.
Code 1950, § 45-85.9; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-39; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.238; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-767. Hazardous crane operations

A crane operator shall at all times during any hazardous crane operation maintain visual or auditory communication with all persons involved in such crane operation.
Code 1950, § 45-85.7; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-36; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.239; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-768. Controlling dust at the surface

A. In each surface structure, enclosure, or facility at any excessively dusty mine, every electric motor, switch, lighting fixture, and control shall be protected by dust-tight construction.
B. Each surface structure and piece of equipment shall be kept free of coal dust accumulations.
C. If mining operations raise an excessive amount of dust into the air, such dust shall be allayed at its sources by the use of water, water with a wetting agent added to it, or another effective method.
Code 1950, §§ 45-77, 45-85.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-34, 45.1-67; 1978, cc. 120, 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.240; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-769. Scaffolding and overhead protection

Proper scaffolding or proper overhead protection shall be provided (i) where repairs are being made to a facility or (ii) where equipment or material is being used or transported overhead.
Code 1950, § 45-85.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-34; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.241; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-770. Welding and cutting

No welding or cutting with arc or flame shall be done in an excessively dusty atmosphere or dusty location. Firefighting apparatus shall be readily available when such welding or cutting is performed.
Code 1950, § 45-85.5; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-34; 1978, c. 729; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.242; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-771. Fire prevention and fire control

The provisions of Article 5 (§ 45.2-912 et seq.) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to any requirement for firefighting equipment, duties in the event of a fire, or fire precautions at any surface area of an underground coal mine.
Code 1950, § 45-14.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-89; 1974, c. 323; 1978, c. 118; 1984, c. 590; 1985, c. 500; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.243; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-772. Surface equipment

The provisions of Article 6 (§ 45.2-915 et seq.) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to equipment at any surface area of an underground coal mine.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.244; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-773. Travel ways and loading and haulage areas

The provisions of Article 7 (§ 45.2-922 et seq.) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to any travel way, loading area, or haulage area at the surface of an underground coal mine.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.245; 1996, c. 774; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-774. Electricity

The provisions of Article 9 (§ 45.2-926 et seq.) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to any power line, circuit, transformer, or other electrical equipment at any surface area of an underground coal mine.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.246; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-775. Surface blasting

The provisions of Article 10 (§ 45.2-931 et seq.) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to explosives or blasting at any surface area of an underground coal mine.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.247; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 7 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Mine Construction › § 45.2-776. Ground control

The provisions of Article 11 (§ 45.2-934) of Chapter 9 shall apply with respect to any pit, highwall, wall, bank, or bench associated with any coal mining activity conducted at any surface area of an underground coal mine.
1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.248; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-800. Face and other equipment

A. The cutter chains of any mining machine shall be locked securely by mechanical means or an electrical interlock while such machine is parked or being trammed.
B. Drilling in rock shall be conducted wet or other means of dust control shall be used.
C. Each electric drill or other electrically operated rotating tool intended to be held in the hand shall have the electric switch constructed so as to break the circuit when the hand releases the switch or shall be equipped with a properly adjusted friction or safety clutch.
D. While equipment is in operation or is being trammed, no miner shall position himself or be placed in a pinch point between such equipment and the face or any rib of the mine or another piece of equipment in the mine.
E. Each piece of equipment that is raised for repairs or other work shall be securely blocked prior to any person positioning himself where the falling of such equipment could create a hazardous condition.
Code 1950, § 45-85.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-87; 1979, c. 315; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.123; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-801. Shop and other equipment

A. The following items of shop and other equipment shall be guarded and maintained adequately:
1. Any gear, sprocket, pulley, fan blade or propeller, or friction device or coupling that has a protruding bolt or nut;
2. Shafting or any projecting shaft end that is within seven feet of the floor or platform level;
3. Any belt, chain, or rope drive that is within seven feet of the floor or platform;
4. Any fly wheel. A fly wheel extending more than seven feet above the floor shall be guarded to a height of at least seven feet;
5. Any circular or band saw or planer;
6. Any repair pit, including when the pit is not in use;
7. Any counterweight; and
8. Any mine fan, including the approach to any mine fan.
B. No machinery shall be repaired or serviced while the machinery is in motion; however, this prohibition shall not apply where a safe remote device is used.
C. Any guard or safety device that has been removed from any machine shall be replaced before the machine is put in operation.
D. Each mechanically operated grinding wheel shall be equipped with (i) safety washers and tool rests; (ii) substantial retaining hoods, the hood opening of which shall not expose more than a 90-degree sector of the wheel; and (iii) eyeshields, unless goggles are worn by the miners. Each retaining hood shall include either a device to control and collect excess rock, metal, or dust particles or a device providing equivalent protection to the miner operating such machinery.
E. The operator or his agent shall develop procedures for examining for potential hazards, completing proper maintenance, and properly operating each type of centrifugal pump. Such procedures shall, at a minimum, address the manufacturer's recommendations for start-up and shutdown of the pump, proper actions to be taken when a pump is suspected of overheating, the safe location of start and stop switches, and actions to be taken when a sign of structural metal fatigue, such as a crack in the frame, a damaged cover mounting bracket, or a missing bolt or other component is detected. Every miner who repairs, maintains, or operates any type of centrifugal pump shall be trained in these procedures.
Code 1950, § 45-85.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-88; 1978, c. 118; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.124; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-802. Hydraulic hoses

Every hydraulic hose used on equipment purchased after January 1, 1986, shall be clearly stamped or labeled by the hydraulic hose manufacturer to indicate the manufacturer's rated pressure in pounds per square inch (psi) Every hose purchased after January 1, 1989, shall have the rated pressure permanently affixed on the outer surface of the hose and repeated at least every two feet. Every hose purchased and installed on an automatic displacement hydraulic system shall either (i) have a four-to-one safety factor based on the ratio between minimum burst pressure and the setting of the hydraulic unloading system, such as a relief valve, or (ii) meet the minimum hose pressure requirements set by the hydraulic equipment manufacturer per the applicable hose standards for each type of equipment. No hydraulic hose shall be used in an application where the hydraulic unloading system is set higher than the hose's rated pressure.
1985, c. 612, § 45.1-88.1; 1988, c. 301; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.125; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-803. Surface electrical installations

A. Any overhead high-potential power line shall be (i) placed at least 15 feet above the ground and 20 feet above any driveway, (ii) installed on insulators, and (iii) supported and guarded to prevent contact with other circuits.
B. Any surface transmission line, including a trolley circuit, shall be protected against short circuits and lightning. Each power circuit that leads underground shall be equipped with lightning arrestors within 100 feet of the location at which the circuit enters the mine.
C. Electric wiring in any surface building shall be installed so as to prevent fire and contact hazards.
Code 1950, §§ 45-82, 45-82.3; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-75; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.181; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-804. Surface transformers

A. Any surface transformer that is not isolated by being elevated at least eight feet above the ground shall be enclosed in a transformer house or surrounded by a suitable fence at least six feet high. If the enclosure or fence is of metal, it shall be grounded effectively. The door to the enclosure or the gate to the fence shall be kept locked at all times unless a person who is authorized to enter the gate or enclosure is present.
B. Any surface transformer that contains flammable oil and is installed near a mine opening, in or near a combustible building, or at any other place where such transformer presents a fire hazard shall be provided with a means to drain or to confine the oil in the event of a rupture of the transformer casing.
Code 1950, § 45-82.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-76; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.182; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-805. Underground transformers

Every transformer that is used underground shall be air-cooled or filled with nonflammable liquid or inert gas.
Code 1950, § 45-82.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-76; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.183; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-806. Stations and substations

A. Suitable warning signs shall be posted conspicuously at every transformer station.
B. Every transformer station, substation, battery-charging station, pump station, and compressor station shall be kept free of nonessential combustible material and refuse.
C. Reverse-current protection shall be provided at each storage-battery-charging station to prevent the storage batteries from energizing a power circuit in the event of power failure.
Code 1950, §§ 45-60.4, 45-82.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§ 45.1-76, 45.1-77; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.184; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-807. Power circuits

A. All underground power wires and cables shall (i) have adequate current-carrying capacity, (ii) be guarded from mechanical injury, and (iii) be installed in a permanent manner.
B. Wires and cables that are not encased in armor shall be supported by well-installed insulators and shall not touch any roof, rib, or combustible material; however, this prohibition shall not apply to ground wires, grounded power conductors, or trailing cables.
C. Power wires or cables that are installed in a belt-haulage slope shall be insulated adequately and buried in a trench at least one foot below any combustible material, unless such wires or cables are encased in armor or otherwise fully protected against mechanical injury.
D. Any splice or repair in a power cable shall:
1. Be mechanically strong and have adequate electrical conductivity;
2. Be effectively insulated and sealed so as to exclude moisture;
3. If the cable has metallic armor, possess mechanical protection and electrical conductivity equivalent to that of the original armor; and
4. If the cable has metallic shielding around each conductor, possess new shielding that is equivalent to the original shielding.
E. Every underground high-voltage transmission cable shall be:
1. Installed only in a regularly inspected airway;
2. Covered, buried, or placed on insulators so as to afford protection against damage by derailed equipment if it is installed along a haulage road;
3. Guarded if miners regularly work or pass under such cable, unless it is at least 6.5 feet above the floor or rail;
4. Securely anchored, properly insulated, and guarded at its ends; and
5. Covered, insulated, or placed to prevent contact with any trolley circuit or other low-voltage circuit.
F. Any new high-voltage disconnect that is installed on underground electrical equipment shall automatically ground all three power leads when in the open position. Every high-voltage disconnect that is rebuilt or remanufactured after July 1, 2011, shall meet this standard.
G. Every power wire or cable shall be insulated adequately where it passes into or out of an electrical compartment and where it passes through a door or stopping.
H. Where track is used as a power conductor:
1. Both rails of main-line tracks shall be welded or bonded at every joint, and cross bonds shall be installed at intervals of not more than 200 feet. If the rails are paralleled with a feeder circuit of like polarity, such paralleled feeder shall be bonded to the track rails at intervals of not more than 1,000 feet;
2. At least one rail on any secondary track-haulage road shall be welded or bonded at every joint, and cross bonds shall be installed at intervals of not more than 200 feet; and
3. Track switches on entries shall be well bonded.
Code 1950, §§ 45-82, 45-82.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-78; 1993, c. 442; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.186; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-808. Trolley wires and feeder wires

A. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be installed on the side of the entry opposite the clearance space and any shelter hole, except where the wires are guarded or are installed at least 6.5 feet above the top of the rail.
B. Trolley-wire hangers shall be so spaced that the wire may become detached from any one hanger without creating a shock hazard.
C. Trolley wires shall be aligned properly and installed on insulated hangers at least six inches outside the rail.
D. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be provided with cut-out switches at intervals of not more than 1,500 feet and near the beginning of each branch line.
E. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be kept taut and shall not be permitted to touch the roof or any rib, timber, or combustible material.
F. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be guarded adequately at both sides of any door and at every place where miners work or pass under them, unless they are at least 6.5 feet above the top of the rail.
G. No trolley wires or trolley feeder wires shall extend beyond any open crosscut between an intake and a return airway. All such wires shall be kept at least 150 feet from any active, open pillar workings.
H. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be guarded, anchored securely, and insulated properly at the ends.
I. Trolley wires and trolley feeder wires shall be installed only in an intake airway.
J. No trolley wires or other exposed conductors shall carry more than 300 volts.
Code 1950, §§ 45-82, 45-82.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-78; 1993, c. 442; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.187; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 45.2 - Mines, Minerals, and Energy › Chapter 8 - Requirements Applicable to Underground Coal Mines; Electricity, Safety, Etc › § 45.2-809. Grounding

A. Every metallic sheath, armor, or conduit that encloses a power conductor shall be electrically continuous throughout and shall be grounded effectively.
B. Every metallic frame, casing, or other enclosure of stationary electrical equipment that can become electrified through failure of insulation or by contact with energized parts shall be grounded effectively, or equivalent protection shall be provided.
C. Any three-phase alternating current circuit that is used underground shall contain either a direct or derived neutral that shall be grounded through a suitable resistor at the power center. A grounding circuit that originates at the grounded side of the grounding resistor shall extend with the power conductors and serve as the grounding conductor for the frame of every piece of electrical equipment that is supplied with power from that circuit. A grounding resistor that is manufactured to meet the extended time rating as set forth in American National standard IEEE C57.32-2015 is deemed to meet the requirements of this section. High-voltage circuits extending underground shall be supplied with a grounding resistor of a proper Ohmic value located on the surface to limit the voltage drop in the grounding circuit external to the resistor to not more than 100 volts under fault conditions. Such grounding resistor shall be rated for maximum fault current continuously and insulated from ground for a voltage equal to the phase-to-phase voltage of the system. Every resistance-grounded alternating circuit used underground shall include a fail-safe ground check circuit to monitor continuously the grounding circuit to ensure the continuity of the ground conductor.
1966, c. 594, § 45.1-79; 1994, c. 28, § 45.1-161.188; 1999, c. 256; 2011, cc. 826, 862; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 387.