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Subchapter 17. Mine Safety Orders
Article 32. Gases in Mines
§7102. Dangerous Accumulation of Gases.
(a) When the air in any part of a mine is known to contain, or is suspected of containing, a dangerous accumulation of gas, it shall be tested before anyone is allowed to work therein.
(b) For the purpose of these Orders, a dangerous accumulation of gas is any gas, except flammable gas, in a concentration greater than listed in the General Industry Safety Orders as the maximum allowable concentration for such gas.
A dangerous accumulation of flammable gas is any mixture of flammable gas and air which exceeds 20 percent of its lower explosive limit.
(c) If an accumulation of gas is sufficient to endanger persons away from its immediate vicinity, such persons shall be promptly taken out of the danger area until the gas is removed.
(d) When it is necessary to move an accumulation of gas, provision shall be made for the safety of employees in the area through which the gas is to be moved. Accumulations of gas shall be moved under the direction of a competent person.
(e) No one shall be permitted to work or be in a dangerous accumulation of gas unless permissible respiratory equipment adequate for employee protection is worn.