Transcriber's Note: This book was originally printed using variously both italic and bold fonts for emphasis. The underline character (_) has been used here to delimit text originally in _italic_ font and the equals symbol (=) to delimit text originally in =bold= font.

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Mining Laws of Ohio

1921

COMPILED BY

THE DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

Columbus, Ohio THE F.J. HEER PRINTING CO. 1921 Bound at the State Bindery



FOREWORD.

The Department of Industrial Relations.

The act of the Eighty-fourth General Assembly, known as House Bill two hundred forty-nine, found in 109 Ohio Laws at page 105, became effective on July 1, 1921.

This law provides for the reorganization of the executive department of the state government and is an administrative code centralizing related executive functions and activities for better administrative care and control.

All duties, rights, liabilities, authority and privileges relating to MINES and MINING, formerly had and exercised under the law by THE INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION OF OHIO, was, by the above mentioned law, conferred upon and imposed in THE DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS to be administered by the Director of Industrial Relations.

This pamphlet contains all the provisions of the General Code of Ohio directly relating to MINES and MINING, their operation, control and management, put into convenient form for the information and guidance of employers, employes and the general public, for whose benefit and observance they have been enacted.

In any section of the law herein given where the phrase "Industrial Commission" or "The Industrial Commission of Ohio," or "Chief Inspector of Mines" is found, the phrase "The Department of Industrial Relations" is to be read, because such department has, by the law first above mentioned, been given the powers and duties before had by such commission.

All the statutes printed in this pamphlet are in full force and effect.

The Department of Industrial Relations,

WILLIAM ROBINETT, Chief, Division of Mines.



NOTICE.

Where there is more than one section relating to the same subject matter, the additional section references have been placed at the end of these sections in parenthesis.

Persons are also requested to consult the Table of Contents as well as the Classified Index which is given in minute detail.

Also read carefully the Penalties which are provided in Section 976 for violation of all laws commencing with duty of County Coroner in Section 921, and ending with Section 975, with the exception of Sections 968, 969 and 972, for which no penalties are provided.



TABLE OF CONTENTS.

SECTIONS.

Relating to chief and district inspectors 899-920

Relating to county recorder and county coroner 921

Relating to owner, lessee or agent 922-950

Relating to superintendent, mine-foreman and over-seer 951-954

Relating to stableman and fire-boss 955

Relating to employes generally 956-963

Relating to persons not employes 964

General provisions 965-972

Relating to oil and gas well through coal measures 973

Relating to illuminating oil for mines 974-975

Relating to penalties 976

Relating to fines collected, prosecutions, when act takes effect, and repeals 977-978

Regulating and prohibiting solid shooting 976-1-2

Regulation of weighing of coal 978-1-7

Relating to employment of minors 13001-13002

Relating to Department of Industrial Relations 154-1-6-45



RELATING TO CHIEF INSPECTOR OF MINES AND DISTRICT INSPECTORS OF MINES.



Mining Laws of Ohio

Sec. 898. Repealed. (Appointment of chief.)

Sec. 899. [Qualifications of chief inspector of mines.] No person shall be appointed chief inspector of mines unless he has a competent knowledge, insofar as such sciences relate to mining, of chemistry, the mineralogy and geology of this state, a practical knowledge of the different systems of working and ventilating mines, the nature and properties of the noxious and poisonous gases in mines, particularly fire-damp, the best means of preventing the accumulation of such gases, and the best means of removing the same. He shall also have had at least five years actual practical experience in mining in this state, shall have a knowledge of mine engineering, and shall have a practical knowledge of the uses and dangers of electricity as applied at, in, and around mines.

Sec. 900. The Industrial Commission of Ohio shall appoint, with the approval of the governor, and upon recommendation of the chief deputy of the division of mines and mining, five district inspectors of mines in addition to those now in such service, making in all the number of district inspectors of mines seventeen.

Sec. 901. [Qualifications of district inspectors of mines.] No person shall be appointed district inspector of mines unless he has been a resident of the district for which he is appointed, for at least two years, has had at least five years' actual practical experience in mining in this state, has a practical knowledge of the best methods of working and ventilating mines, of the nature and properties of noxious and poisonous gases, particularly fire-damp, of the best means of detecting the presence of and preventing accumulation of such gases and the best means of removing the same, and has a practical knowledge of the uses and dangers of electricity as applied at, in and around mines.

Sec. 902. Repealed. (Devoting entire time to duties.)

Sec. 903. Repealed. (Bond.)

Sec. 904. [Offices of inspectors.] The chief inspector of mines shall have an office at the seat of government, in which he shall keep the maps and plans of all mines in the state, and all records, correspondence, papers, apparatus, and other property belonging to the state, pertaining to his office, in accessible and convenient form for reference by persons entitled to examine them, all of which he shall deliver to his successor in office. The persons entitled to examine maps, plans, records and papers of a mine, shall be the owner, lessee or agent of such mine; the persons financially interested in such mine; the owner, or owners, of land adjoining such mine; the owner, or owners, of land adjacent to such mine; the owner, lessee or agent of a mine adjacent to such mine; and the authorized representatives of the employes of such mine. The chief inspector of mines shall not permit such maps, plans, records and papers to be removed from his office, and shall not furnish copies thereof to any persons, except by request of the owner, lessee or agent of the mine to which such maps, plans, records and papers pertain. Each district inspector shall keep his office in such place in his district as is central and convenient.

Sec. 905. Repealed. H.B. 249—Sec. 3, 109 O.L.; 105. (Salaries and expenses of inspectors.)

Sec. 906. [Duties of chief inspector.] The chief inspector of mines shall designate the counties, or portions thereof, which shall compose the different districts, and may change such districts whenever in his judgment the best interests of the service so require. He shall issue such instructions, and make such rules and regulations for the government of the district inspectors of mines consistent with the powers and duties vested in them by law, as will secure uniformity of action and proceedings throughout all the districts. The chief inspector of mines may order one district inspector of mines to the assistance of any other, or may make temporary transfers of district inspectors of mines, when, in his judgment, the efficiency of the service demands or permits, and with the consent of the governor, may remove any district inspector of mines for reasonable cause. The chief inspector of mines shall give such personal assistance to the district inspectors of mines as they may need, and make such personal inspection of the mines as he deems necessary and his other duties permit. He shall keep in his office and carefully preserve all maps, surveys, reports and other papers, required by law to be filed with him, and arrange and preserve them as a permanent record of ready, convenient and connected reference. He shall, upon receipt of a report of the district inspector of mines, or of a committee of miners, covering the conditions of a mine, promptly mail a copy thereof to the general office of the owner, lessee or agent of such mine. (Sec. 967.)

Sec. 907. [Duty in case of fatal accident.] Upon receiving notice from the owner, lessee or agent that a fatal accident has occurred at a mine, the chief inspector of mines shall go, or order one of the district inspectors of mines to go, at once to the mine at which such accident occurred, inquire into its cause, and make a written report setting forth fully the condition of that part of the mine wherein the accident occurred, and the cause thereof. Such report shall be filed by the chief inspector of mines in his office, and a copy mailed to the general office of the owner, lessee or agent of such mine. (Sec. 921, 934, 940, 951.)

Sec. 908. Repealed. (Annual Report.)

Sec. 909. [Duties of district inspectors of mines.] Each district inspector of mines shall examine each mine in his district, in which men are employed, as often as practicable, and mines employing more than ten persons, at intervals not exceeding three months between examinations, noting particularly the condition of the boilers and machinery, the location and condition of the buildings, the condition of the workings of the mine, the condition of the traveling and haulways, the circulation and condition of the air and drainage, and shall see that the provisions of this act are complied with. Upon the completion of the examination of a mine, he shall within a reasonable time thereafter, report in writing to the chief inspector of mines, the conditions of the mine, showing the extent to which the provisions of this act are complied with or violated. (Sec. 913.)

Sec. 910. [District inspectors as sealers of weights and measures.] The district inspectors of mines are hereby vested with all the powers and authority of county auditors as sealers of weights and measures in the different counties of this state, but shall exercise such authority in connection with weights and measures at mines, only. Each district inspector of mines may upon his regular examination of a mine, and shall, upon the written request of the duly authorized representatives of the miners, the owner, lessee, or agent, or the interested land owner, test the accuracy of the scales at any time, and post in the weight house a certificate provided by the chief inspector of mines, certifying the condition of the scales, provided that such tests be made at a reasonable time without unnecessary inference with the use of such scales. (Sec. 941.)

[Duty of district inspectors in case of controversy.] In case of a controversy or disagreement between the district inspector of mines, and the owner, lessee or agent of a mine, or persons working therein, or in case of emergency requiring counsel, the district inspector of mines may call upon the chief inspector of mines for such assistance and counsel as is necessary.

Sec. 911. [Inspectors shall exercise discretion.] Each inspector shall exercise discretion in the enforcement of the provisions of this act. If he finds that any matter, thing or practice, connected with any mine, and not prohibited by law, is dangerous or defective, (or that from a rigid enforcement of any of the express provisions of this act, such matter, thing or practice would become dangerous or defective), so as in his opinion to tend to the bodily injury of any person, such inspector shall give notice in writing to the owner, lessee, or agent of the mine, of the particulars in which such mine or any matter, thing, or practice connected therewith is dangerous or defective, and require it to be remedied by making such changes as the conditions may require. Provided, however, that in the exercise of the foregoing provisions relating to the application of electricity or electric wires, the judgment of the chief inspector of mines and the district inspector of mines, jointly shall be required. (Sec. 947-948.)

Sec. 912. [Inspectors shall have access to mines.] For the purpose of making the examinations provided for in this act, the chief inspector of mines, and each district inspector of mines, may enter any mine at reasonable times, by day or night, but in such manner as will not unnecessarily impede the working of the mine, and the owner, lessee or agent thereof shall furnish the means necessary for such entry and examination.

[Examination of record of minors employed.] The district inspector of mines shall examine the record kept by the mine foreman, of boys under sixteen years of age employed in each mine, and report to the chief inspector of mines, the number of such person employed in and about each mine, and enforce the provisions of this act relative to their employment. (Sec. 944-953.)

"The provisions of Section 912, 944 and 953 G.C. do not permit the employment of children under 16 years of age in, about or in connection with any mine. Such employment is governed by the provisions of Section 13002 G.C."

Opinion No. 885 office of the Attorney General, State of Ohio, December 21, 1917.

Sec. 913. [Report of district inspector to chief inspector.] On or before each Monday, each district inspector of mines shall make and file in the office of the chief inspector of mines, a record showing the number of mines in the district examined by him during the preceding week, the number of persons employed in and about such mines, the date of each examination, condition of each mine examined, whether the laws relating to mines and mining are being observed or violated, and, if violated, the nature and extent of such violations, progress made in safeguarding the lives and protecting the health of the employes in and about the mines, together with such other facts of public interest concerning the condition of mines and the development and progress in mining, as he deems proper. (Sec. 909.)

Sec. 914. [Duties of chief inspector and oil and gas well inspector.] The chief deputy inspector of mines and the oil and gas well inspector shall designate the townships in the various coal producing counties of Ohio, which shall be considered coal bearing or coal producing townships, to be included under the regulations as prescribed in section 973 relating to the mapping, drilling and abandonment of oil, gas or test wells. The chief deputy inspector of mines shall allow all matter pertaining to the mapping and drilling of oil and gas wells to be under the direct supervision of the oil and gas well inspector, except when wells are to be drilled, or have been drilled directly adjacent to some mining operation, or in case any arrangement for the drilling of an oil or gas well must necessarily be made in mutual understanding and consideration with some mining operation, or whenever the proper protection of the coal deposits is in question.

The oil and gas well inspector shall supervise the granting of permits to drill or abandon a well, the filing and reprinting of maps of oil, gas or test wells, and see that all the provisions relating to the mapping, drilling, and abandonment of such wells are strictly complied with. In any case where the plugging method as outlined in section 973 cannot be applied, or if applied, would be found ineffective in carrying out the intended protection, which the law is meant to give, the oil and gas well inspector may designate the method of plugging to be used, in all such cases causing the abandonment report to show the manner in which the work was done.

The oil and gas well inspector shall designate the counties or townships thereof which shall compose the different districts of the respective deputy oil and gas well inspectors, or change such districts whenever in his judgment the best interests of the service so demands. He shall issue instructions and regulations for the government of the deputy inspectors as will be consistent with the powers and duties vested in them by law, and secure the proper protection which the law intended. The oil and gas well inspector shall give such personal assistance to the deputy inspectors as they may need and make such personal inspection as he deems necessary throughout all the districts, at any time.

Each deputy oil and gas well inspector shall carry out the instructions of the oil and gas well inspector with reference to the enforcement of the regulations provided in section 973, or other regulations that are deemed necessary to insure the protection which this section intends. Any person, firm or corporation dissatisfied with the ruling of the chief deputy inspector of mines, or the oil and gas well inspector under the provisions of this section shall have the right of appeal to the Industrial Commission of Ohio within ten days from the date of such ruling.

Chief Inspector of Mines Shall Provide and Maintain Rescue Apparatus.

Sec. 915. The chief inspector of mines shall provide and maintain, at the expense of the state, one rescue car fully equipped with not less than twelve approved oxygen breathing devices complete, one recharging equipment for recharging oxygen cylinders, twelve extra oxygen cylinders, two resuscitating outfits complete, forty approved safety lamps, one naphtha tank, twenty portable electric lamps complete, with storage batteries, and all necessary instruments and chemical tests, together with all necessary supplies and appliances therefor. The rescue car with its equipment, shall be stationed at such point as may be designated by the chief inspector of mines, and may be transferred, by his direction, at any time to any point within the state for the purpose of facilitating the efficient inspection of mines and conducting rescue work, and to demonstrate the various appliances and instruct persons in their use in first aid and rescue work.

The rescue car with its equipment shall be continuously in charge of one person who shall be appointed by the chief inspector of mines, with the approval of the governor, and who shall receive a salary of twelve hundred dollars per annum, together with all necessary expenses incurred in the discharge of his duties.

The person in charge of said rescue car shall, before entering upon the discharge of the duties connected therewith, give a bond to the state in the sum of two thousand dollars with two or more sureties approved by the governor conditioned for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office. Such bond with the approval of the governor and the oath of office endorsed thereon shall be deposited with the secretary of state and kept in his office.

(103 O.L. 467.)

Five Rescue Stations to be Provided and Maintained; Equipment of Same.

Sec. 915-1. The industrial commission of Ohio shall provide and maintain at the expense of the state, five rescue stations, each station to be equipped with not less than five approved breathing devices complete, one recharging or refilling pump for recharging oxygen cylinders, five extra oxygen cylinders, one resuscitating outfit, five approved mine safety lamps, five approved electric mine safety lamps complete, one lamp testing cabinet, not less than one thousand feet of three inch hose with standard connection and nozzles complete, one anemometer, one first aid cabinet and supplies, six stretchers with woolen blankets for each, and one automobile truck of sufficient capacity to transport equipment from station to any mine located within the district in which the rescue station is located.

Location of Stations; Superintendent; Salary.

Such rescue stations shall be centrally located within the coal producing counties, so as to cover the largest number of mines within the shortest period of time, and each rescue station shall be continually in charge of a superintendent who shall be appointed by the industrial commission of Ohio with the approval of the governor, who shall receive a salary in a sum equal to that provided for district inspectors of mines, together with all necessary expenses incurred in the discharge of his duties.

Qualifications of Superintendent.

The qualifications of superintendents of rescue stations shall be the same as that of district inspector of mines, namely, that no person shall be appointed superintendent of rescue stations unless he has been a resident of the district for which he is appointed for at least two years, has had at least five years' actual practical experience in mining in this state, has a practical knowledge of the best methods of working and ventilating mines of the nature and properties of noxious and poisonous gases, particularly fire damp, of the best means of detecting the presence of and preventing accumulation of such gases and the best means of removing the same, and has a practical knowledge of the uses and dangers of electricity as applied at, in and around mines.

Duties of Superintendent.

Each superintendent of rescue station shall devote his entire time to the duties of his office, and shall at all times keep the equipment of such station in constant state of repair and be ready to meet any emergency that may arise at any mine at any time, either day or night. He shall teach and train first aid and rescue crews in the use of first aid and rescue equipment and shall be required to keep his station at all times in a clean and sanitary condition, and subject to such rules and regulations as the industrial commission of Ohio may from time to time establish.

(108 O.L. 1278.)

Sec. 916. [Action for non-compliance with provisions of this act.] If the appliances of a mine for the safety of the persons working therein do not conform to the provisions of this act, or if the owner, lessee or agent disregards the requirements thereof, on application by the chief inspector of mines in the name of the state, any court of competent jurisdiction may enjoin or restrain the owner, lessee or agent from operating such mine, until it is made to conform to the provisions of this act. Such remedy shall be cumulative, and shall not affect any other proceedings authorized by law against such owner, lessee or agent for the matter complained of in the action. (Sec. 927-928.)

Sec. 917. [Failure to make map and forfeiture.] Upon the refusal or neglect of the owner, lessee or agent of a mine to make and file a map, or any addition thereto, within sixty days after being directed to do so by the chief inspector of mines, as provided for in this act, the chief inspector of mines may cause such map or addition thereto to be made in duplicate at the expense of such owner, lessee or agent, the cost of which shall be recoverable against such owner, lessee or agent, in the name of the chief inspector of mines in any court of competent jurisdiction in the county in which such mine is located, or in Franklin county. (Sec. 904, 935, 936, 937.)

Sec. 918. [Complaint against district inspector; how made.] When written charges of neglect of duty, incompetency, or malfeasance in office against any district inspector of mines, are made and filed with the chief inspector of mines, signed by not less than fifteen employes, or an owner, lessee or agent of a mine, the chief inspector of mines shall promptly investigate such charges, and advise in writing, addressed to the complainant whose name appears first in the charges, the result of such investigation.

[Complaint against chief inspector, how made; appeal.] When written charges of neglect of duty, incompetency or malfeasance in office against the chief inspector of mines, are made and filed with the governor, signed by not less than fifteen employes, or the owner, lessee or agent of a mine, or if not less than fifteen employes, or the owner, lessee or agent of a mine, having filed charges against a district inspector of mines with the chief inspector of mines, are dissatisfied with the result of the investigation made by him, and appealed to the governor by filing the same charges against such district inspector of mines with the governor, he shall make, or cause to be made, an investigation of such charges, and advise in writing, addressed to the complainant whose name appears first in the charges, the result of such investigation.

Sec. 919. [Appeal and hoard of examiners.] After such appeal from the decision of the chief inspector of mines, or after charges have been filed against the chief inspector of mines with the governor, and the result of the investigation made by him, or at his instance, is unsatisfactory to the complainant, and notice thereof is given to the governor in writing by said complainant, accompanied with a bond in the sum of five hundred dollars, payable to the state, conditioned for the payment of all costs and expenses of the investigation of such charges, in the event such charges are not sustained, and signed by two or more responsible freeholders, the governor shall convene a board of examiners, consisting of two practical miners, one chemist, one mining engineer, and one mine operator at such time and place as he directs, giving ten days' notice thereof to the inspector against whom the charges are made, and also to the person whose name appears first in the charges.

[Duties of board.] When so convened, and being duly sworn truly to try and decide upon the charges made, the board of examiners shall summon any witnesses desired by either party, and examine them, on oath, administered by a member of the board. Depositions may be read on such examination as in other cases. The board shall examine fully into the truth of such charges and report the result of its investigation to the governor; and, according to its finding, award the costs and expenses of such investigation against the inspector or the persons signing the bond. The costs and expenses of such investigation shall include a compensation of five dollars per day for each member of the board, for the time occupied in the trial, and in traveling to and from his home, together with all legitimate expenses which shall be paid from the state treasury on the certificate of the president of such board. The attorney general shall proceed to collect such costs and expenses, and pay them into the state treasury.

Sec. 920. [This act shall not create new office or displace any officer.] No change herein made in the name of an office existing when this act takes effect shall create a new office. The incumbents of offices when this act takes effect, the duties of which are herein defined, or the filling of which is herein provided for, shall hold their respective offices for the full term for which they were severally elected or appointed, the same as if this act had not been passed.



RELATING TO COUNTY RECORDER AND COUNTY CORONER.

Sec. 921. [Duty of Recorder.] The recorder of the county, when presented with a map of an abandoned mine, by the owner, lessee or agent thereof, as provided for in this act, shall properly label, file and preserve the same as a part of the records of the land upon which said mine is located. (Sec. 937.)

[Duty of coroner.] Upon receiving notice of a death occurring at a mine, as provided for in this act, the coroner shall hold an inquest forthwith upon the body of such person, inquire carefully into the cause of his death, and within ten days after such inquest, return a copy of his findings, with a description of the body, and all the testimony before him, to the chief inspector of mines. Upon request of the owner, lessee or agent of the mine where such person was employed, shall furnish a copy thereof to such owner, lessee or agent, for which such coroner shall be entitled to a fee of ten cents per legal cap page, but in no case more than five dollars for any one inquest, for copy furnished owner or lessee. (Sec. 940; Penalty, Sec. 976.)



RELATING TO OWNER, LESSEE OR AGENT.

Sec. 922. [Ventilation of mines.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine, shall provide and maintain the necessary artificial means of capacity and power capable of supplying the required ventilation, and shall maintain a sufficient volume of air, not less per minute than one hundred and fifty cubic feet for each person, and five hundred cubic feet for each animal working therein, measured at the intake, and distributed so as to expel or dilute and render harmless, explosive, poisonous and noxious gases.

[Additional requirements where fire-damp is present.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine generating fire-damp, so as to be detected by a safety lamp, shall, in addition to the foregoing, provide and maintain not less than fifty cubic feet of air per minute for each person working therein. (Sec. 923, 924, 952; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 923. [Ventilating appliances.] In each mine, the doors used in assisting or directing the ventilation thereof, shall be hung so that they will close themselves, and shall be kept closed except while persons or cars are passing through same. Each door, not operated automatically, through which cars are required to pass, shall have an attendant, whose first duty shall be to open it for transportation, and prevent it from standing open longer than necessary for cars to pass through, and, persons in charge of cars passing through automatic doors shall be required to keep a close watch over such doors, and if any such door fails to close, they shall promptly close same and report such fact to the mine foreman. This shall not prevent the attendant from performing other duties, provided the door is not kept open longer than is necessary for cars to pass through. Where necessary, a refuge place shall be provided at each door for the safety of the attendant. (Sec. 943, 958; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 924. [Ventilation of mines while persons working therein.] At each mine where the ventilation is not continuous, it shall be started a sufficient length of time prior to the appointed time for any person, or persons, working therein to enter, to clear the mine of explosive, poisonous and noxious gases, and shall be kept in operation a sufficient length of time after the appointed time for such employes to leave their working places, for all persons to be out of the mine. (Sec. 922, 923, 952; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

[Pressure gauges.] At each mine generating fire-damp so as to be detected by a safety lamp, and wherein twenty or more persons are employed, a recording pressure gauge for the purpose of recording the pressure or vacuum of the main air current, shall be provided and maintained, which shall be kept in constant use, and records preserved for ninety days, subject to the inspection of the chief inspector of mines and the district inspector of mines. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 925. [Competent person or persons shall be designated as fire-boss.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine generating fire-damp so as to be detected by a safety lamp, shall designate a competent person or persons as fire boss or fire bosses, who shall make a thorough examination of each working place in the mine every morning with a standard safety lamp, not more than three hours prior to the appointed time for the employes to enter the mine. As evidence of such examination, the fire boss shall mark with chalk upon the face of the coal, or in some other conspicuous place, his initials and date of the month upon which the examination is made. If there is any standing gas discovered, he must leave a danger signal across every entrance to such place.

[Examination of other than working places.] Each mine generating fire-damp so as to be detected by a safety lamp, shall be kept free from standing gas. All traveling ways, entrances to old workings, and places not in the actual course of working, shall be carefully examined with a safety lamp by the fire boss not more than three hours before the appointed time for persons employed therein to enter. Parts of the mine not in the actual course of working and available, shall be examined not less than once each three days, and shall be so fenced as to prevent persons from inadvertently entering therein. (Sec. 955, 959; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 926. [Breakthroughs and brattices.] From a point where the seam is reached in the opening of a mine, to a point not exceeding a distance of four hundred feet therefrom, breakthroughs shall be made between main entries, where there are no rooms worked, not more than one hundred feet apart, provided such entries are not advanced beyond the point where the breakthrough will be made until the breakthrough is complete. Breakthroughs between entries, except as hereinbefore provided, shall be made not exceeding sixty feet apart. Where there is a solid block on one side of a room, breakthroughs shall be made between such room and the adjacent room not to exceed sixty feet apart; where there is a breast or group of rooms, a breakthrough shall be made on one side or the other of each room, except the room adjoining said block, not to exceed forty feet from the outside corner of the breakthrough to the nearest corner of the entrance to the room, and on the opposite side of the same room a breakthrough shall be made, not to exceed eighty feet from the outside corner of the breakthrough to the nearest corner of the entrance to the room, and thereafter breakthroughs shall be made not to exceed eighty feet apart on each side of the room. No working place, except those provided for within a distance of four hundred feet of the principal openings of a mine, shall be driven more than eighty feet in advance of a breakthrough or air-way. The required air current shall be conducted to the breakthrough nearest the face of such entry or room. All breakthroughs between entries, and when necessary between rooms, except the one nearest the working face, shall be closed and made air-tight by brattice, trap doors or other means, so that the current of air in circulation may sweep to the interior of the mine. Brattices between permanent inlet and outlet airways shall be constructed in a substantial manner of brick, masonry, concrete, or non-perishable material. In mines generating fire-damp, so as to be detected by a safety lamp, the air current shall be conducted by brattice, or other means, near enough to the working face to expel the fire-damp, and prevent the accumulation of the same. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 927. [Safe appliances for hoisting persons.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall provide and maintain safe appliances, approved by the district inspector of mines, for the ingress and egress of persons in each shaft, designated by such owner, lessee or agent as a means of ingress and egress for persons employed therein. When there is but one shaft available for ingress and egress from any unavoidable cause, the appliances therein shall be kept available to persons therein employed at all times. When such appliances in any shaft are rendered unavailable from any cause, the same shall be restored without delay.

[Emergency appliances.] When the only means of egress is by vertical shaft, in which cages or elevators are used as a means of hoisting persons therein employed, and the power for operating same is derived from but one source, the owner, lessee or agent shall provide and keep on hand for use in the event of an accident to the hoisting apparatus or the power by which same is operated, a suitable windlass, capable of hoisting the persons from the mine.

[Competent engineers.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine worked by a shaft or slope, shall put in charge of an engine used for lowering into or hoisting out of such mine persons employed therein, only experienced, competent and sober engineers. (Sec. 916, 928; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 928. [Metal speaking tube and safety appliances.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine operated by shaft, shall provide and maintain a metal tube suitable for conversation between persons, connecting the engine room with the top and bottom of such shaft; an approved safety catch, a sufficient cover, and rings or other adequate handholds for ten persons, on all cages used for lowering and hoisting persons: Such cages to be protected on each side by a boiler plate not less than one-fourth inch in thickness, and not less than three feet high, and shall provide an approved safety gate at the top of each shaft, an adequate brake to control the drum used for lowering or hoisting persons in shafts or slopes, and an indicator on all machines used for such purpose, to show the location of cages in shaft or slope. No cage having an unstable or self-dumping platform shall be used for the carriage of persons unless such platform is securely locked. (Sec. 916, 927; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 929. [Hoisting and lowering of persons.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine, at which the only means of ingress and egress for the persons employed therein is by a vertical shaft or shafts, of fifty feet or more in depth, shall designate one or more persons whose duty shall be to attend to the lowering and hoisting of persons into and out of such mine, and give and receive the proper signals, governing the movement of the cage while engaged in handling men. Not more than ten persons shall be lowered or hoisted at any one time. The lowering of persons shall begin in time for persons to reach their working places by hour appointed for mine to commence work and continue until starting time. Hoisting of persons shall commence at time for mine to cease work, and continue until all have had time to be hoisted. Persons may be hoisted at such other times as will not interfere with the hoisting of coal, or other products. No person shall be lowered into or hoisted out of a mine, with powder, explosives, tools or material on any cage, in the same shaft, and no person shall be lowered or hoisted in a vertical shaft in a mine car. When the vertical shaft is less than fifty feet in depth, and a stairway approved by the district inspector of mines is not provided, the owner, lessee or agent shall be required to lower or hoist persons, as above prescribed, but when such stairway is provided, the hoisting of persons shall not be required.

Sec. 930. [Owner, lessee or agent shall provide second opening.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall not employ or permit any person to work therein except as hereinafter provided, unless to every seam worked in such mine there are at least two openings, separated by natural strata of not less than one hundred feet in breadth at any point, by which distinct means of ingress and egress are always available to the persons therein employed. Such openings need not belong to the same mine so long as the persons employed therein have safe, ready and available means of ingress and egress, by not less than two openings, provided, however, that no air shaft with a ventilating furnace at the bottom be designated or used as a means of ingress or egress. The provisions of this section shall not apply to opening a new mine while being worked for the purpose of making the second opening and the communication therewith, and the making of the landing or bottom and extending of the main entries one hundred feet while such communication is being made; to a mine in which the second opening has become unavailable from any cause while said second opening is being restored or another is being made; nor to a mine in which the second opening has become unavailable by reason of the final robbing of the pillars previous to abandonment, so long as not more than twenty persons in either case are employed therein at one time.

[Fire protection to shafts.] At each mine at which the only means of egress is by vertical shaft, the owner, lessee or agent shall provide adequate fire protection to secure the safety of such shaft, or shafts, and, when but one shaft is the only available means of egress, shall keep in attendance a competent person at all times while persons are inside of such mine. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 931. [Separate traveling ways.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall provide and maintain, in safe condition for the purpose provided, two separate and distinct traveling ways from the interior workings of the mine, each of which shall be available to not less than one opening to the surface. One of such traveling ways may be designated by such owner, lessee or agent as the principal traveling way. One of such traveling ways may be designated as the escapement way. The provisions of this section shall not prohibit such owner, lessee or agent from designating more than one principal traveling way, or more than one escapement way, so long as the provisions hereof are complied with.

[Traveling ways and refuge holes.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine worked by shaft, shall provide and keep free from obstruction, a traveling or passage way from one side of the shaft bottom to the other. Slopes and mechanical haulage ways 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 rail of track to permit persons to pass moving cars with safety. If found impracticable to make such slopes or mechanical haulage ways of sufficient width as provided, refuge holes not less than six feet in width and clearing the adjacent rail of the track not less than four feet, and not more than sixty feet apart, shall be made on one side of the slope or mechanical haulage way and whitewashed. The refuge holes shall be kept free from obstruction, and the roof and sides made secure. (Sec. 932, 959; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 932. [Detached locomotive from moving train. Traveling way where locomotive is detached.] At a mine, or in any part thereof, where a locomotive is detached from a moving train of cars for the purpose of dropping such cars past the locomotive, and the haulage way at such point is designated as the principal traveling way, a traveling way, not less than three feet wide and separated from the track by a pillar of coal or substantial fence, shall be provided at one side of that portion of the track from where the locomotive will be detached to the switch of the siding. Such traveling way shall be made on the same side of the track as the refuge holes. In no case shall a locomotive be detached from a train of moving cars, for the purpose of making a drop thereof, more than one hundred feet from the switch of the siding. (Sec. 931, 959; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

[Additional means of egress when inundation is probable.] At any mine where there is a stream or body of water on the surface, or in the workings of a mine, at a higher level, which is likely to break through into such mine and inundate either the traveling or escapement way of such mine, so as to prevent the egress of persons employed therein, the owner, lessee or agent, shall, upon the written order of the chief inspector of mines, provide and maintain an additional opening by means of which such persons may escape without using the traveling or escapement way likely to be inundated. (Sec. 950; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 933. [Duties of owner, lessee or agent relating to supplying timber.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall keep an adequate supply of suitable timber constantly on hand, and deliver to the working place of each miner, the props of approximate length, caps and other timbers necessary to securely prop the roof thereof: Such props, caps, and other timbers, shall be delivered in mine cars at point where the miner receives his empty cars, or unloaded at the entrance to the room. (Sec. 953, 956; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 934. [Provisions for persons injured at mines.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine at, in or around which, more than ten persons are employed, shall furnish for each thirty-five men so employed a properly constructed stretcher, a woolen blanket, a waterproof blanket, a sufficient quantity of bandages and linen and such other necessary requisites for use in case of accident as may from time to time be prescribed by the industrial commission of Ohio. At mines generating fire-damp so as to be detected by a safety lamp, a sufficient quantity of olive or linseed oil shall be kept for use in emergencies. It shall be the duty of each mine foreman to keep in a safe and dry place in the territory over which he has charge such stretchers, woolen and waterproof blankets and other supplies. He shall care for the same and keep them in a dry and sanitary condition always ready for use. (Sec. 907, 921, 940, 951; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 934-1. [Owner, lessee or agent shall provide and maintain wash room.] Every owner, operator, lessee or agent of a coal mine, where ten or more persons are employed, shall provide and keep in repair a wash room, convenient to the principal mine entrance, adequate for the accommodation of the employes, for the purpose of washing and changing their clothes when entering and returning from the mine. Such wash room shall be properly lighted and heated, supplied with warm and cold water and adequate and proper facilities for washing purposes.

Sec. 934-1a. [Penalty.] Whoever, being the owner, operator, lessee or agent of a coal mine where ten or more persons are employed, fails or neglects, after ninety days from the taking effect of this act, to comply with the provisions of section 934-1 of the General Code, or violates any of the provisions thereof, shall be fined not less than two hundred nor more than five hundred dollars.

(This act became effective June 16, 1921.) (109 O.L. 22.)

Sec. 934-2. [Owner, lessee or agent shall install telephone system.] Every owner, operator, lessee or agent of a coal mine, where twenty or more persons are employed, shall install, and maintain in efficient working condition, a telephone connecting each main switch of such mine with an outside telephone so connected and maintained as to permit communication with persons outside of the mine with persons on the main switch or switches or other points inside of the mine that may be designated by the district mine inspector.

Sec. 934-3. [Penalty.] Whoever, being the owner, operator, lessee or agent of a coal mine, where twenty or more persons are employed, fails or neglects, after six months from the taking effect of this act, to comply with the provisions of section 934-2 of the General Code, or violates any of the provisions thereof, shall be fined not less than two hundred nor more than one thousand dollars.

(This act became effective June 22, 1921.) (109 O.L. 48-49.)

Sec. 935. [Owner or lessee shall make map of mine.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine having an excavation of fifteen thousand cubic yards, or more, shall cause to be made, on a scale of not less than two hundred feet per inch, an accurate map thereof, which shall show the following: The boundary lines and names of the owners of the surface of each tract under which excavation is made, and for not less than five hundred feet contiguous thereto, and under which excavations are likely to be made during the ensuing year, together with all streams and bodies of standing water; the township and county lines coming within the limits of such map, with the name of each plainly marked close to and parallel with such lines; the title, the name or number of the mine, or both, the township and county in which located; the section lines, with the number of each, marked plainly within the sections; the location of the mine openings, railroad tracks, public highways, oil and gas wells, magazines and buildings, and plainly marked with name of each; the location and extent of the excavations and connection with the surface survey; the direction of the air current, or air currents by arrows; the location and extent, so far as known or obtainable, of the excavation of any other mine or mines within the limits of the map; the boundary lines of the tracts of coal owned or leased within the limits of the map; the elevation of the floor of the excavation, above mean tide at Sandy Hook, at or near the boundary line or lines of the coal owned or leased where the coal is adjacent to coal owned by a person, firm or corporation, other than the owner or lessee of such mine, and where the excavations of such mine cease or may be approached by another mine, at points not exceeding three hundred feet apart, and referenced to some permanent monument near the main opening of such mine, and shown on the map and plainly marked bench mark, with the elevation of same. (Sec. 904, 917, 936, 937; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 936. [Addition to map, and certificate of engineer and mine-foreman.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall cause to be made, a map or an addition to the next previous map thereof, annually, and semi-annually if so directed in writing by the chief inspector of mines, showing the excavations and the information required by the preceding section, to date of survey. The map, or maps, required by this and the preceding section, and any addition thereto, shall have the certificate of the engineer making same, and of the mine-foreman in charge of the mine at the time of the survey, acknowledged before, a notary public or justice of the peace, thereon in the following form:

I, the undersigned, hereby certify that this map is correct, and shows all the information required by section nine hundred and thirty-five of the General Code, and covers the period ending ..............................................

............................. Engineer.

Acknowledged before me a ...................... this .............. day of ......................................

.............................

I, the undersigned, hereby certify that I am a mine-foreman at the mine represented by this map, and to the best of my knowledge and belief the same correctly represents the excavations of the mine for the period ending ............................................................

............................. Mine-Foreman.

Acknowledged before me a ....................... this ................ day of ....................................

.............................

(Sec. 904, 917, 937; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 937. [Owner, lessee or agent shall file map of abandoned mine with county recorder and chief inspector of mines.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine, before the pillars are drawn previous to the abandonment of a mine, or any part thereof, shall cause to be made a correct map of such mine, or part thereof, showing its area and workings to the day of the abandonment; the pillars drawn previous to abandonment; and file such map within ninety days after the abandonment of such mine, in the office of the Recorder of the county where such mine is located, and with the chief inspector of mines at his office. Such map shall have attached thereto the usual certificate of the mining engineer making it, and the mine-foreman in charge of the underground workings of the mine, and such owner, lessee or agent shall pay to the Recorder for filing such map, a fee of fifty cents. (Sec. 921.)

[Copy of map to be filed with chief inspector.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall keep at the office thereof, open to the inspection of the chief inspector of mines, and the district inspector of mines, a copy of the latest map of such mine, with any addition thereto, and shall furnish a copy thereto to the chief inspector of mines at his office. (Sec. 904, 917, 935, 936; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Precaution when approaching abandoned mine.

Sec. 938. Whenever any working place of a mine approaches within one hundred feet of the abandoned workings of another mine, as indicated by an accurate survey, or while driving any working place within a distance of one hundred feet thereof, and such abandoned, mine cannot be explored, or when same contains fire-damp, or water which may inundate such working place, the mine-foreman shall not permit such working place to be advanced until a drill hole has been extended not less than twelve feet in the center of such working place, and a flank hole not less than twelve feet extended on each rib, starting at the working place after taking out each cut or crossing. Whenever the limits of the workings of an abandoned mine are not known by actual survey, the above rule shall apply whenever any working place approaches within one hundred and fifty feet of the supposed limits of such abandoned mine. In addition to the precautions provided for in this act when approaching or working parallel with such an abandoned mine, the owner, lessee or agent shall, upon the demand of the chief inspector or district inspector of mines, provide competent shot firers to do the shot firing in all the working places advancing or running parallel with such abandoned mine; the shot firing to be done when all other workmen are out of the mine. The chief inspector or district inspector of mines shall order shot firers at any mine when in their judgment the safety of property or employes require same. (103 O.L. 500.)

Sec. 939. [Notice must be sent to chief inspector in certain cases.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall give notice to the chief inspector of mines in the following cases: When a change occurs in the name of the mine, in the name of the owner, lessee or agent thereof, or in the officers of an incorporated company owning or operating such mine; when a working is commenced for the opening of a new shaft, slope or mine; when a mine is abandoned, or the working thereof discontinued; when the working of a mine is commenced, after an abandonment or discontinuance thereof for a period of more than three months; when the pillars of a mine are about to be removed or robbed; when a squeeze, crush, or fire occurs, or a dangerous body of gas is found, or any cause or change that may seem to affect the safety of persons employed therein. (Sec. 940; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 940. [Notice of accidents.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine at which loss of life occurs by accident, shall give notice thereof, by telegram, forthwith, to the office of the chief inspector of mines, and to the coroner of the county in which such accident occurs; and, within twenty-four hours next after loss of life or personal injury has occurred, the owner, lessee or agent of the mine shall send to the chief inspector of mines a report in writing, of the accident, specifying the character and cause thereof, the names of the persons killed or injured, and the nature of the injuries. If a personal injury thereafter results in the death of the person injured, as soon as such death comes to his knowledge, the owner, lessee or agent shall give notice thereof forthwith, in writing, to the chief inspector of mines, and to the coroner of the county in which such accident occurred. (Sec. 907, 921, 934, 951; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

[Return of owner, lessee or agent.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine, shall, on or before the thirty-first day of January of each year, send to the office of the chief inspector of mines, upon blanks furnished by him, a correct return, specifying with respect to the year ending on the preceding thirty-first of December, the quantity of coal mined, and the number of persons ordinarily employed at, in, and around such mine, distinguishing the persons below and above ground, and give such other information as required by such blanks. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 941. [Test weights to be provided.] The owner, lessee or agent of a coal mine, at which the earnings of ten or more persons depend upon the weights of coal mined, shall provide and keep accessible for the purpose of testing the weigh scales as provided elsewhere in this act, the following standard test weights, properly sealed: Where the coal mined is weighed upon hopper or pan scales, two standard test weights of fifty pounds each; where the coal mined is weighed upon railroad track scales, ten standard test weights of fifty pounds each. (Sec. 910.)

[Owner, lessee or agent shall provide safety lamps.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine generating fire-damp, so as to be detected by a safety lamp, shall keep on hand in proper condition for use, not less than four approved safety lamps, and upon request of the district inspector of mines, shall provide such additional safety lamps as in his judgment may be required to meet any probable emergency.

[Owner, lessee or agent shall provide shields on mining machines.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine, shall provide and maintain a sufficient shield on each mining machine used in such mine, as may be authorized by the chief inspector of mines, or the district inspector of mines, for the protection of those employed in operating same. (Sec. 957; Penalty, Sec. 976.)



SIGNAL CODE.

Sec. 942. [Signals at mines, how conducted; devices to be used.] At each mine operated by shaft, the means of signaling to and from the bottom man, the top man, and the engineer shall consist of a tube, or tubes, or wire encased in wood or iron pipes, through which signals shall be communicated by electricity, compressed air, or other devices. The following signals are provided for use at mines where signals are required:

SIGNAL CODE.

From the Bottom to the Top.

[One ring or whistle.] One ring or whistle from the bottom to the top shall signify to hoist coal or the empty cage, and also to stop either when in motion.

[Two rings or whistles.] Two rings or whistles shall signify to lower cage.

[Three rings or whistles.] Three rings or whistles shall signify that men are coming up; when return signal is received from the engineer, men will get on the cage, and cager shall ring or whistle one to start.

[Four rings or whistles.] Four rings or whistles shall signify to hoist slowly, implying danger.

[Five rings or whistles.] Five rings or whistles shall signify accident in the mine and a call for a stretcher.

From the Top to the Bottom.

[One ring or whistle.] One ring or whistle from the top to the bottom shall signify: All ready, get on cage.

[Two rings or whistles.] Two rings or whistles shall signify: Send away empty cage.

[Addition to code, when allowed; code must be posted at top and bottom.] Provided, that the management of any mine, may, with the consent of the district inspector of mines, add to this code of signals in his discretion, for the purpose of increasing its efficiency, or of promoting the safety of the men in said mine, but whatever code may be established and in use at any mine must be furnished by the mining department, conspicuously posted at the top and at the bottom and in the engine room, for the information and instruction of all persons concerned.

[Emergency signal in shafts.] At each mine where persons are hoisted in a vertical shaft, an emergency signal shall be provided in such manner that persons can give signals from the cage, in the event that cage is stopped between the top and bottom landings. (Sec. 929; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 943. [Lights in mines.] The owner, lessee or agent of each mine shall provide an enclosed lard or signal oil lamp or lantern or incandescent electric light at such point or points in the mine as may be necessary for the proper safety of persons, especially at the top of extreme grades. No open light shall be used for fixed or stationary purposes; no open torches or lamps larger than the lamps provided for in this act for use as open lights, and no coal oil or kerosene lamp or lanterns, shall be used in a mine. This, however, shall not prevent the use of a torch or blow-torch for mechanical purposes other than illumination. (Sec. 961.)

[Light or signal on locomotives and trains.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine at which locomotives are used for hauling the coal, shall keep a light on the front end of the locomotive when it is in use, and when the locomotive is run ahead of the trip, and the trip-rider is not required to ride the rear car of the trip, a signal, light or marker, approved by the district inspector of mines, shall be carried on the rear end of the trip to indicate when the trip has passed. Cars shall not be pushed ahead of the locomotive where it can be avoided, and when cars are run ahead of the locomotive a light shall be carried on the front end of the trip and the cars shall not be moved at a speed greater than four miles per hour. When rope haulage is used, an enclosed light shall be carried on the front end of each train so hauled. When a mechanical haulage trip passes through an automatic door having no attendant other than persons in charge of such trip, the trip-rider shall be required to ride the rear car of the trip while passing though such door, and see that it closes after the trip passes through. (Sec. 923, 958; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 944. [Employment of minors.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine shall not employ, or permit to work therein, any boy under fourteen years of age; nor employ, or permit to work therein, any boy under fifteen years of age during a term of the public schools, in the district in which he resides. (Sec. 912, 953.) (See Child Labor Law, Sec. 13002, page ——).

"The provisions of Section 912, 944 and 953 G.C. do not permit the employment of children under 16 years of age in, about or in connection with any mine. Such employment is governed by the provisions of Section 13002 G.C."

Opinion No. 885 office of the Attorney General, State of Ohio, December 21, 1917.

[Removal of combustible matter.] Whenever an entry or air-way becomes so dry that the air becomes charged with dust, the owner, lessee or agent shall cause such entry or air-way to be sprinkled, and all accumulated matter, explosive in its nature, shall be removed from the mine. (Sec. 956.)

[Quantity of oil in mine restricted.] No oil shall be taken into or stored in a mine except as may be required to be opened for use within two days thereafter; and in no case shall more than two barrels of oil be kept at any one place, and not more than ten barrels of oil shall be had in a mine at any one time. All waste oil and empty barrels shall be promptly removed from the mine. (Sec. 974, 975.)

[Location of boilers at mine.] The permanent boilers used for generating steam, and the buildings containing the boilers, shall not be nearer than sixty feet to any mine opening or to a building or inflammable structure connected with or surrounding such opening. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 945. [Relating to underground stables.] The owner, lessee or agent of a coal mine at which the live stock is kept underground, shall observe the following: The stable or stall shall be separated from the main inlet and main outlet air-courses by not less than twenty feet of solid strata or a solid wall of brick or masonry not less than twelve inches in thickness, except at two doors not more than five feet wide, which shall be made of steel plate not less than one-quarter inch in thickness and hinged to the solid strata or masonry without the use of wood; the ventilation for the stable shall be taken from main inlet air-course by a by-pass or separate split and returned to the main outlet air-course so that the air passing the stables will not enter the inward working places of the mine, and arranged so that the by-pass or split can readily be closed at both inlet and outlet sides of the stable by steel doors hinged to the solid strata or masonry without the use of wood; the construction of the stable inside shall be free from pine or light lumber; shall be of brick or masonry as much as practicable, and any timber used shall be of hardwood of a cross section not less than three by six inches; no hay or straw shall be taken into the mine or stable unless same be compressed into compact bales, and then only from time to time in such quantities as will be required for two days' use; no greater quantity of hay or straw shall be stored in the mine or stable, and when such is taken into the mine it shall be taken inside the stable at once; the lights used in the stable shall be incandescent electric lamps, placed so that same will not be injured by the stock or by persons required to enter the stable, or lanterns of railroad type suitable for using lard or signal oil, and only such oil shall be used therein; all refuse and waste shall be promptly removed from the stable and the mine, and shall not be allowed to accumulate. Stables constructed underground after the passage and approval of this act, shall be located not nearer than one hundred and fifty feet of any opening to the mine used as a means of ingress or egress. (Sec. 955, 960; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 946. [Relating to use of gasoline in mines.] No gasoline, naphtha or kerosene engine shall be used in a mine, except for operating pumping machinery where electric, compressed air or steam power is not available or cannot be transmitted to the pump, and then the owner, lessee or agent shall observe the following: Notice shall be made to the chief inspector of mines before installing, and the installation and operation shall be subject to his approval: No wood or inflammable material shall be permitted nearer than twenty-five feet of the engine: The supply tank from which the gasoline, naphtha or kerosene is fed to the engine, shall be of metal, with a suitable screw cap opening, fitted with a gasket, so as to make the tank air-tight and prevent the escape of gas into the atmosphere, and the tank kept free from leaks: the gasoline, naphtha or kerosene shall be fed from a tank to the carburetor or mixer by metal tubes securely connected so as to reduce the possibility of leaks to a minimum: The exhaust from the engine shall be conducted by means of metal pipes into the return air current, so that the fumes of combustion will not enter the workings of the mine where the men are required to work, or be conducted in an upcast shaft or slope not used as a means of ingress or egress, or through metal pipes to the surface: At no time shall there be more than five gallons of gasoline, naphtha or kerosene in the supply tank; at no time shall more than five gallons of same be taken into the mine at any one time, and at no time shall there be more than ten gallons in the mine, including that in the supply tank: No gasoline, naphtha or kerosene shall be taken into the mine except in metallic cans, with a screw cap opening at the top, fitted with a suitable gasket: No package or can, or the supply tank of an engine, containing gasoline, naphtha or kerosene, shall be opened until ready to make the transfer from the package or can to the supply tank, and in transferring, a funnel shall be used so as to avoid spilling the gasoline, naphtha or kerosene, and the cap on the supply tank shall be immediately closed: In no case shall the package, can, or the supply tank, be opened, with any open light or other thing containing fire within twenty-five feet of same. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 947. [Relating to use of electricity in mines.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine in which electricity is used as a means of power, shall observe the following in the application thereof:

[Trolley wires.] All trolley wires shall be carried at least six inches outside of and parallel with the track rail on the side the trolley wire is located. When regular height is less than six feet six inches from top of rail, the lower side of trolley wire must not exceed six inches from the roof or cross-timber with hangers now in use, with hangers not to exceed twenty-five feet between centers, and the tension sufficient to keep all wires from sagging and to prevent trolley wheel from coming in contact with roof or cross-timbers. All new hangers hereafter installed shall not exceed five inches in depth from lower side of the trolley wire to the roof or cross-timbers.

[Wires crossing traveling ways.] All trolley and positive feed wires crossing places where persons or animals are required to travel, shall be safely guarded or protected from such persons or animals coming in contact therewith.

[Wires opposite rooms and refuge holes.] All trolley and positive feed wires shall be placed on opposite side of track from refuge holes or necks of rooms.

[Bare wires; when not to extend into working places.] No trolley wire shall be extended into or maintained in any room while being used as a working place; no trolley or feed wire shall be extended into any entry beyond the outside corner of the last breakthrough.

[Switches and circuit-breakers.] Switches or circuit-breakers shall be provided to control the current at the mine, and at all important points in the mine.

[Machine feed wires and insulators.] All machine feed wires shall be placed as near the rib and roof or cross-timbers as practicable; the positive wire to be carried not to exceed three inches from the rib and roof or cross-timbers, measured at the insulators, which shall be so placed as to keep the wire at least six inches outside of the track rail on the side the wire is located. Insulators shall be placed not exceeding fifty feet apart, and all wires shall be carried so that same will be not less than six inches outside of the track rail at any point on the side the wire is located. All positive wires shall be carried on glass or porcelain insulators, or insulators equally efficient. All negative wires shall be carried on suitable fixtures, and when carried in same entry as the positive wire, shall be carried on the same side of the entry as the positive wire, and as close to it as practicable. When machine or feed wires are carried in same entry as trolley wire, they shall be placed on the same side as the trolley wire, between trolley wire and rib. Nothing in the foregoing shall require negative wires being carried in same entry with positive wire.

[Wires in shafts or slopes.] When necessary to carry wires down shafts or slopes used as travelways, the wires must be thoroughly cased or protected, so that persons cannot be shocked therefrom.

[Wires; how placed in rooms.] Positive machine feed wires, when extended into rooms, shall be placed not nearer than four feet of the track, where the room is of sufficient width, and the same shall only be connected to the positive wire or wires on the entry while in actual use. The material used for making such connection shall be of sufficient length to reach across the entry, and when same is disconnected, it shall be kept with the machine operating at such point or working place. No electric wires shall be extended into any room unless a one hundred and fifty foot cable will not reach the face of the room, and then not beyond the outside corner of the last breakthrough.

[Protection of terminal ends.] All terminal ends of positive wires shall be guarded so as to prevent persons inadvertently coming in contact therewith.

[Connection of negative wires, pipe lines and track. Bonding of track.] The bonded track, the negative wires and metallic pipe lines, when coming near each other, may be connected together at intervals not exceeding five hundred feet, and any track used as the return or earth system shall be properly bonded. In no case shall a pipe line, or any part thereof, be used exclusively as the return, and when connected to the earth system, the negative wire or bonded track shall be of ample capacity, exclusive of the pipe line, to carry the current.

[Trolley wires; how erected.] The trolley wire shall be carried upon hangers or other fixtures which will properly insulate it from contact with the roof or other substances, and so the trolley wheel can trail without the necessity of being constantly attended for that purpose, and no trolley shall be run on any wire not so carried.

[Locomotive must not be operated improperly.] No locomotive shall be operated by means of a person holding and sliding upon or frequently making contact with the positive wire with any device attached to the cable as a substitute for a trolley, but these provisions shall not prohibit the operation of a locomotive by means of a cable without the use of the trolley, provided the cable be connected to and disconnected from the positive wire when the locomotive is not in motion.

[Protection to machine cable crossing entry track.] Means shall be provided by which machine runners may readily carry the machine cable from the machine to the feed wires on one side of the entry, either under or over the track rails, in the entry where such wires are located, and so the cable will not come in contact with such track rails, thereby reducing the danger of shock to persons or animals required to travel such entry, to the minimum. (Sec. 911, 948; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 948. [Voltage at mines hereafter electrically equipped.] The owner, lessee or agent of a mine at which electricity with a pressure or potential of more than three hundred and twenty-five volts, or alternating current, is used, shall in addition to the provisions of the preceding section, observe the following:

[Limit to voltage in or about working places.] At each mine equipped with electric power after the passage and approval of this act, the current used to operate gathering locomotives, mining machines, shearing machines, drills and other machinery, used in or about the working places of the mine, shall not exceed in pressure or potential, three hundred and twenty-five volts, direct current, as shown at the nearest switchboard, and the wires conducting the power from the nearest switchboard shall not carry a higher pressure or potential.

[Relating to alternating current.] At each mine equipped with electric power alternating current may be used to convert alternating current to direct current, and to operate motors permanently installed above ground and in underground substations, or buildings especially prepared for them, in a manner subject to the approval of the chief and district mine inspectors, but no wires carrying alternating current shall be used underground except same be carried in an entry or passageway where persons and animals are not permitted to travel.

[Relating to higher voltage mines hereafter equipped.] At each mine equipped with electric power after the passage and approval of this act, when the current used to operate haulage locomotives, pumps and other machinery not located in or about the working places of the mine, is of a pressure or potential in excess of three hundred and twenty-five volts, direct current, the entry or passage way where such wires are carried shall not be designated or permitted to be used as the principal traveling way, and when designated or used as the escapement way, the wires shall be protected so that persons required to travel near same in emergencies will not inadvertently come in contact therewith. No pressure in excess of six hundred and fifty volts at the switchboard shall be used underground.

[Relating to higher voltage, mines heretofore equipped.] At each mine equipped with electric power prior to the passage and approval of this act, where the pressure or potential is in excess of three hundred and twenty-five volts, direct current, or where alternating current is used, and the conditions surrounding the use of same are such, in the opinion of the chief inspector of mines, that the provisions of the preceding section do not provide the required protection from shock to persons employed therein, such additional safeguards shall be employed as may be required by the chief inspector of mines, and the district inspector of mines, jointly. (See. 911, 947; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 949. [Relating to construction of new mines.] Any person, firm or corporation beginning the opening of a mine, whether such person, firm or corporation be the owner, lessee or agent of the property upon which such mine is located, or not, shall observe the following in the construction of such mine: If the opening be a slope or vertical shaft, no explosive used therein shall be fired by means of a squib or fuse after the same is extended more than twenty-five feet from the surface, and thereafter and until the slope or shaft reaches the seam, and the entry or landing be extended beyond a breakthrough or other place driven at right angles thereto, no explosive shall be fired except by means of an electric battery operated from the surface after all persons are on the surface. A substantial structure to sustain sheave wheels or pulleys, ropes and loads, shall be provided, and if the opening be a shaft, the same shall be placed at a height of not less than twenty feet above the tipping place. A landing platform shall be arranged in such manner that no material can fall into the shaft while the bucket is being emptied, and in no case shall the shaft be sunk to a depth of more than thirty feet without such structures. If the bucket used for hoisting material is to land on a truck, the track on which said truck is operated, and the platform, shall be so constructed that material cannot fall into the shaft. Rock and coal shall not be hoisted from a shaft or slope except in a bucket or cage attached to the rope by a safety hook, clevis, or other safe attachment, and the bucket or cage securely locked so that same cannot tip or empty while being hoisted. The rope shall be fastened to the side of the drum, and not less than three coils of rope shall always remain on the drum. After the shaft reaches a depth of one hundred feet, the same shall be provided with guides and guide attachments, applied in such a manner as to prevent the bucket from swinging while being lowered or hoisted, and said guides and guide attachments shall be maintained at a distance of not more than seventy-five feet from the bottom of the shaft. The sides of all shafts shall be properly secured for safety, and no loose rock or material shall be allowed to remain on any timber in the shaft after each blast. All loose timber, tools, and materials, shall be kept away from the top of the shaft, so as to reduce the danger of same falling down the shaft. Where explosive gas is encountered, the person in charge shall see that the shaft or slope is examined before each shift of men enter to work, and before the men descend after each blast. Provision shall be made for the proper ventilation of the slope, or shaft, so that persons working therein will have the necessary air. An efficient brake shall be attached to each drum of an engine used in hoisting material and persons, and all machinery, ropes and chains connected therewith shall be carefully examined once each twelve hours. Not more than four persons shall be lowered or hoisted in or on a bucket at one time, and no person shall be permitted to ride on a loaded bucket. The bucket used in lowering or hoisting persons shall be equipped with proper safety devices, so that same cannot become detached from the rope or cable, and cannot tip or turn upside down while being so used. The chief inspector of mines, and the district inspector of mines, shall have jurisdiction over such mine when the shaft or slope reaches a depth of twenty-five feet, and such person, firm or corporation shall comply with any order issued by either or both of them with respect to the safety of persons employed. Other than the provisions herein, the provisions of this act shall not apply to the opening of a mine until such opening reaches the seam, and the entry or landing be extended beyond a breakthrough, or other place driven at right angles thereto. (Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 950. [Additional openings; when and how provided for.] When in the opinion of the district inspector of mines together with the chief inspector of mines, the ways and means of egress in any mine under their jurisdiction, from the interior working places to the surface, as provided for in this act, are inadequate as a safe and ready means of escape in case of probable emergency, and there are extra hazards of a permanent nature that cannot be removed either from long distance from the interior working places to the exterior openings for egress, from danger of fire at any point, or any other cause that probably will result in the entombment of persons working therein, they shall jointly give notice in writing to the owner, lessee or agent of such mine, and require an additional opening by shaft, slope or drift, from the surface; the location of the interior end of such shaft, slope, or drift, to be sufficiently near the interior working places in that part of the mine where such persons are endangered, to afford such persons safe and ready means of escape, free from such hazards. (Sec. 932; Penalty Sec. 976.)



RELATING TO SUPERINTENDENT, MINE-FOREMAN AND OVER-SEER.

Sec. 951. [Duties of superintendent.] The superintendent in charge of a mine shall see that the provisions of this act are carried out, and shall, in case of an accident resulting in the death of or injury to persons, carefully investigate such accident, and report to the chief inspector of mines, as provided for in this act, and to the owner, lessee or agent of the mine. He shall give such other notice to the chief inspector of mines as required by the provisions of this act, and shall co-operate with the mine-foreman and direct him as may be necessary in securing a compliance with the provisions of this act, and the safety of the persons employed in the mine. Nothing herein shall prohibit the superintendent from fulfilling the duties of mine-foreman. (Sec. 940, 953, 962, 965; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 952. [Duties of mine foreman.] The mine-foreman shall attend personally to his duties in the mine, carry out all the provisions set forth in this act, see that the regulations prescribed for each class of workmen under his charge are carried out in the strictest manner possible, and see that any deviations from any of them are promptly adjusted. (Sec. 953, 965.)

[When ventilation stops.] In case of accident to a ventilating fan, or its machinery, whereby the ventilation of the mine would be seriously interrupted, he shall promptly order the men to immediately withdraw from the mine and not return to their work until the ventilation has been restored, and his permission to enter is given; if at a mine which generates fire-damp, he shall not order them to return until the mine has been thoroughly examined by him, or his assistant, and reported to be safe. (Sec. 922, 923, 924.)

[Dangerous places fenced.] He shall see that all dangerous places are properly fenced off, and proper danger signal boards are hung on such fencing that they may be plainly seen; he shall also travel all air-ways, and examine all the accessible openings to old workings as often as is necessary to insure their safety. (Sec. 925.)

[Examination of working places.] He shall examine each working place, or have it examined by his assistant, at least once each alternate day that persons are or should be at work therein and oftener, when, in his judgment, the circumstances require. He shall instruct pick miners and machine runners regarding the width of working places. (Sec. 956.)

Sec. 953. [When working place is unsafe.] When a working place becomes unsafe from any cause, he shall order the person or persons working therein, to cease mining or loading, and not to remain in such working place, except as may be necessary to make it safe, until it is made safe. (Sec. 956.)

[Supplying of props and timber.] He shall see that the working place of each miner is kept supplied with props of approximate length, caps, and other timbers necessary to securely prop the roof thereof. When he examines a working place, he shall observe the condition of the roof and timbering, and instruct the workmen therein as to the proper method of timbering for the security of the roof. He shall give such instructions to drivers, motormen, trip-riders, and other persons, as may be necessary to keep a supply of timber in each working place. (Sec. 933, 956.)

[Miner without props or timber.] When he finds a miner in a working place without the necessary props, caps or timbers to securely prop the roof thereof, he shall order such miner to leave such working place until the required timber is supplied, which he shall attend to promptly, and shall order that no cars be delivered to such miner, until timber is supplied. (Sec. 933, 956.)

[Measure and report of ventilation.] He shall keep a careful watch over the ventilating apparatus and air-ways, and measure the ventilation at least once each week, at the inlet and outlet, and at or near the face of all entries; which measurement shall be noted on blanks furnished by the chief inspector of mines. On the first day of each month, he shall sign such blanks, properly filled with the actual measurements, and forward them to the chief inspector of mines. (Sec. 922, 923, 924, 952.)

[Record of boys employed.] He shall keep a record of the boys under sixteen years of age employed by him, or by any other person, giving the name, age, place of birth, name and residence of parents, and character of employment. He shall require written evidence from the parent or guardian of each said minors, that the requirements of the school laws of this state have been complied with. (Sec. 912, 944.) (See Child Labor Law, Sec. 13002.)

"The provisions of Section 912, 944 and 953 G.C. do not permit the employment of children under 16 years of age in, about or in connection with any mine. Such employment is governed by the provisions of Section 13002 G.C."

Opinion No. 885 office of the Attorney General, State of Ohio, December 21, 1917.

[Assistant mine-foreman.] The duties of mine-foreman shall apply to assistant mine-foreman, when acting for the mine-foreman, or in discharging the duties thereof. (Sec. 952, 965; Penalty, Sec. 976.)

Sec. 954. [Relating to over-seer.] The over-seer shall visit the working place of each inexperienced person engaged at mining or loading, at such intervals as provided for in this act, and instruct them as to their work and safety and assist them in caring for their safety. He shall instruct such persons not to handle or use any explosives except in his presence, until they have been employed in a mine not less than three months, and not then until he is satisfied that such persons are fully competent to handle and use same with safety. When, in his judgment, such persons require more frequent supervision than provided for in this act, he shall visit their working places as frequently as in his judgment the circumstances require. The foregoing shall not prohibit the mine-foreman from fulfilling the duties of overseer, so long as all the provisions of this act are complied with. (Sec. 965; Penalty, Sec. 976.)



RELATING TO THE STABLEMAN AND FIRE-BOSS.

Sec. 955. [Duties of stableman.] The stable man shall see that the provisions of this act relating to stables are carried out, and shall forbid persons not required by duty, to enter the stable or loiter in or about same, whether the stable be inside of the mine or on the surface. (Sec. 945, 960.)

[Duties of fire-boss.] The fire-boss shall examine with a safety lamp each working place, whether same is in the actual course of working or not, the traveling ways and entrances to old workings in the mine every morning, not more than three hours prior to the appointed time for the employes to enter the mine. As evidence of such examination, he shall mark with chalk upon the face of the coal, or in some other conspicuous place, his initials and date of the month. If there is any standing gas discovered, he shall leave a danger signal across every entrance to such place.

[Report on blackboard.] He shall make a report on a blackboard provided on the outside of the mine for that purpose, and arrange so the men can conveniently inspect it, showing the condition of the mine as to the presence of fire-damp, and indicating the place, or places, where present, if any is present, before he permits any person to enter the mine. He shall examine parts of the mine not in the actual course of working and available, not less than once each three days.

[Written report.] The fire-boss shall make a written report, which shall be kept in the office, or some place at the mine where it can be seen by the mine inspector when called for. He shall see that every part of the mine is kept free from standing gas, and that all old workings are properly fenced off, as provided for in this act. He shall return to the mine with the miners and remain there at least one hour, attending to the removal of any standing gas. He shall examine the mine on idle days and Sundays if any men are required to work in any part of it, and if more than three hours elapse between the day turn leaving and night turn starting, the places to be worked by night turn must be examined by him with a safety lamp, and reported safe before persons go to them. (Sec. 925, 959; Penalty, Sec. 976.)