Subchapter 17. Mine Safety Orders
Article 22. Fire Prevention and Control

§7055. Fire Prevention and Control.

GENERAL

(a) No person shall smoke or use an open flame:

(1) (4-1a) Where flammable solvents, liquids, fluids, or other flammable materials are stored, transported, handled, or used; or

(2) (4-1b) Where oil or grease is stored, transported, handled, or used, if smoking or the use of an open flame may cause a fire; or

(3) (4-1c) Within an unsafe distance of any area where smoking or the use of an open flame may cause a fire or an explosion.

(b) (4-2) Signs warning against smoking and open flames shall be posted so they can be readily seen in areas or places where fire or explosion hazards exist.

(c) (4-4) Flammable liquids shall be stored in accordance with standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other recognized agencies approved by the Bureau of Mines. Small quantities of flammable liquids drawn from storage shall be kept in appropriately labeled safety cans.

(d) (4-8) Fuel lines shall be equipped with valves to cut off fuel at the source and shall be located and maintained to minimize fire hazards.

(e) (4-9) All heat sources, including lighting equipment, capable of producing combustion shall be insulated or isolated from combustible materials.

(f) (4-14) Solvents with flash points lower than 100 Fahrenheit (38 Centigrade) shall not be used for cleaning.

(g) (4-15) Solvents shall not be used near an open flame or other ignition source, or near any source of heat, or in an atmosphere that can elevate the temperature of the solvent above the flash point.

(h) (4-20) Battery-charging stations shall be located in well-ventilated areas.

(i) (4-21) Equipment powered by internal combustion engines (except diesel engines) where the fuel tank is an integral part of the equipment, shall be shut off and stopped before being fueled.

(j) (4-22) Each mine shall have available or be provided with suitable fire-fighting equipment adequate for the size of the mine.

(k) (4-23) Firefighting equipment which is provided on the mine property shall be strategically located, readily accessible, plainly marked, properly maintained, and inspected periodically. Records shall be kept of such inspections.

(l) (4-29) When welding or cutting near combustible materials, suitable precaution shall be taken to ensure that smoldering metal or sparks do not result in fire.

(m) (4-33) Valves on oxygen and acetylene tanks shall be kept closed when the contents are not being used.

(n) (4-40) Fire alarm systems shall be provided and maintained in operating condition or adequate fire alarm procedures shall be established to warn promptly all persons endangered by a fire.

(o) (18-12) Emergency telephone numbers shall be posted at appropriate telephones.

(p) (4-19) Gauges and regulators used with oxygen or acetylene cylinders shall be kept clean and free of oil and grease.