2014 Virginia Code
Title 45.1 - Mines and Mining
§ 45.1-161.250. Employment and duties of top persons; plan for excavation of shaft or slope

A. During the construction or modification of any shaft or slope mine, the person engaged in the actual construction or modification of such mine shall employ one or more certified top persons. It shall be the duty of such top person to examine for proper and safe practices and materials used during the construction or modification of a shaft or slope mine. Such duties shall at all times be performed in the immediate vicinity of the shaft under construction.

B. Prior to commencing the excavation of any shaft or slope, the operator shall submit to the Department a copy of the plan that includes the following: (i) the name and location of the mine and slope or shaft; (ii) a description of the work and methods to be used in the construction of the slope or shaft; (iii) a description of the methods to be used to ensure wall and roof stability; (iv) a description of the system of ventilation to be used including procedures for evacuation of the slope or shaft should a fan stoppage occur; (v) details of hoisting equipment to be used; and (vi) such other information as may be required by the Chief. The excavation of a shaft or slope shall not begin until the plan is approved by the Chief.

1980, c. 442, § 45.1-20.1; 1994, c. 28; 2011, cc. 826, 862.