MINERS RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

MINE MAPS

Under Section 312(b) of the Mine Act, you and your miners’ representative have the right to inspect maps of the underground coal mine where you work. This includes maps showing the locations of roof falls as well as maps identifying all electrical installations within the mine. Escapeway maps for your mine must be readily available to you in the following locations:

Working sections

Areas where mechanized mining equipment is being installed or removed

Refuge alternatives

Surface locations where miners commonly gather, such as bathhouses, waiting rooms, or bulletin board areas

The escapeway map must clearly display designated escape routes from working sections to the surface, exits at the bottoms of shafts or slopes, locations of refuge alternatives, and storage locations for self-contained self-rescuers (SCSRs).

These maps must be kept current, and any changes made to the escapeway map must be communicated to you and all affected miners immediately, or prior to entering the underground areas where the changes have been implemented.