SURFACE STRUCTURES AND PRACTICES

§22A-2-50. Procurement of dust-tight electrical equipment; fireproof construction; dust control; repairs; welding; handrails and toeboards; protection of personnel on conveyors; back guards on ladders; walkways or safety devices around thickeners.

(a) In unusually dusty locations, electric motors, switches and controls shall be of dust-tight construction or enclosed with reasonably dust-tight housings or enclosures.

(b) After July 1, 1971, all structures erected on the surface within one hundred feet of any mine opening shall be of fireproof construction.

(c) Means and methods shall be provided to assure that structures and the immediate area surrounding the same shall be reasonably free of coal dust accumulations.

(d) Where coal is dumped at or near air intake openings, reasonable provisions shall be made to prevent dust from entering the mine.

(e) Where repairs are being made to the plant, proper scaffolding and proper overhead protection shall be provided for workmen wherever necessary.

(f) Welding shall not be done in dusty atmospheres and dusty locations shall be well cleaned, and firefighting apparatus shall be readily available during welding.

(g) Stairways, elevated platforms and runways shall be equipped with handrails. Railroad car trimmer platforms are excepted from such requirement.

(h) Elevated platforms and stairways shall be provided with toeboards where necessary, and they shall be kept clear of refuse and ice and maintained in good repair.

(i) Personnel who are required frequently and regularly to travel on belts or chain conveyors extended to heights of more than ten feet shall be provided with adequate space and protection in order that they may work safely. Permanent ladders extending more than ten feet shall be provided with back guards. Walkways around thickeners that are less than four feet above the walkway shall be adequately guarded. Employees required to work over thickeners shall wear a safety harness adequately secured, unless walkways or other suitable safety devices are provided.