1563.19 Slopes and mechanical haulageways - refuge holes. - Ohio Statutes

1563.19 Slopes and mechanical haulageways - refuge holes.

The operator of a mine worked by shaft shall provide, and keep free from obstruction, a traveling way or passageway from one side of the shaft bottom to the other. Slopes and mechanical haulageways used as traveling ways by persons employed in a mine shall be made of a sufficient width to give not less than three feet of space between the rib and adjacent side of car or mechanical device to permit persons to pass moving cars with safety. If found impracticable to make such slopes or mechanical haulageways of sufficient width as provided, refuge holes, properly marked and whitewashed, not less than six feet in width and clearing the adjacent rail of the tract not less than four feet, and not more than sixty feet apart, shall be made on one side of the slope or mechanical haulageway. The refuge holes shall be kept free from obstruction, and the roof and sides made secure. The deputy mine inspector may prohibit persons from walking such slope when cars are being hoisted or lowered upon it.

During each shift a certified person shall inspect all belt lines to determine if there is a violation of a mandatory health or safety standard.

No operator of a mine shall refuse or neglect to comply with this section.

Effective Date: 10-29-1995