45.1-161.292:29 - Foreman certification - Virginia Statutes

§ 45.1-161.292:29. Foreman certification.

A. At any mineral mine where three or more persons work during any part of atwenty-four-hour period, the licensed operator or independent contractorengaged in the extraction or processing of minerals shall employ a mineforeman. Only persons holding a foreman certificate in accordance with §45.1-161.292:19 shall be employed as mine foremen. The holder of such acertificate shall present the certificate, or a photostatic copy thereof, tothe operator where he is employed, who shall file the certificate or its copyin the office at the mine, and the operator shall make it available forinspection by interested persons.

B. Applicants for a foreman certificate shall have had at least five years ofexperience at mineral mining or other experience deemed appropriate by theBoard of Mineral Mining Examiners and demonstrate to the Board a thoroughknowledge of the theory and practice of mineral mining by making eighty-fivepercent or more on the written examination. In addition, each applicant shallpass an examination in first aid approved by the Board.

C. The certified mine foreman shall examine all active workings at thebeginning of each shift. Any hazard or unsafe condition shall be correctedprior to miners starting work in the affected area.

D. Independent contractors working in a mineral mine who are engaged inactivities other than the extraction or processing of minerals and working ina clearly demarcated area where (i) no mining-associated hazards exist and(ii) no other miners travel or work while engaged in extraction or processingactivities, shall employ a competent person who shall examine the work areaof the contractor at the beginning of each shift. Any hazard or unsafecondition shall be corrected prior to personnel starting work in the affectedarea.

(1997, c. 390; 1998, c. 695.)