Bulletin Of The Department Of Labor Vol 15 PDF Download

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1897 edition. Excerpt: ...each mine must have two openings suitably arranged for ingress and egress. Inflammable structures may not be built over these openings and no breaker may be built within 200 feet of them. Minute provision is mrde for ventilation, both as to the method of supplying the air and the quantity to be supplied, for the daily examination of dangerous places, for safety appliances in entering and leaving the mines, and for the inspection and care of machinery, besides some fifty-eight specific rules for the guidance of miners and employers, the value of which one unskilled in mining operations can not judge. To see that the provisions of the law are complied with eight inspectors are provided for. They are appointed by the governor on the recommendation of boards of examiners, of which there are three for the anthracite region. These boards are composed of three reputable miners in active practice and two reputable mining engineers, all appointed by the judges of certain county courts. The inspectors are charged with the further duty of keeping informed of the condition of the mines of their respective districts as to ventilation, machinery, drainage, method of lighting, use of lights, and so on, to investigate all accidents and report thereon, and to make all needed suggestions for providing for the health and safety of the employees. 1453--No. 13 6 Xo occasional inspection or regulations on paper can, however, take the place of intelligent supervision of the mines. It might be supposed that tlic operators could be trusted to provide such supervision, but the State has undertaken, to improve it by requiring mine foremen and assistant foremen, usually called "bosses," to hold certificates of qualification for their work. These...