45.1-161.109 - Roof control plans.
§ 45.1-161.109. Roof control plans.
A. Each underground coal mine shall have a roof control plan approved by theChief. Each plan shall include (i) a minimum standard for adequatelycontrolling the roof, face, and ribs; (ii) a description of mining methodsused; (iii) a listing and specification of roof and rib support materials;(iv) instruction for the installation of temporary and permanent roofsupports; (v) a description of any pillar recovery methods; (vi) applicabledrawings that demonstrate width of openings, roof support installationsequences, and pillar recovery sequences; and (vii) any additionalrequirements deemed necessary by the Chief. If changes are to be made in themining system that necessitate any change in the roof control plan, the planshall be revised and approved by the Chief prior to implementing the newmining system.
B. The Chief shall, where he deems necessary, prescribe adequate minimumstandards for systematic support of mine roof, suitable to the roofconditions and mining system of each mine. Such standards shall beincorporated into an approved roof control plan for the mine. This sectionshall not apply to roof control systems installed prior to January 27, 1988,so long as the support system continues to effectively control the roof, faceand ribs.
C. Failure to comply with the approved roof control plan for the mine shallconstitute a violation of this section.
D. The approved roof control plan shall be posted conspicuously at the mineand a copy shall be available at each working section of the mine.
E. The minimum standards and plan shall provide for temporary support at allactive workings, without regard to natural condition.
F. If the minimum standards do not afford adequate protection, suchadditional supports as shall be necessary shall be installed. Such additionalsupports shall be described in the plan.
(Code 1950, § 45-68.2; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-40; 1975, c. 520;1978, c. 729; 1984, c. 590; 1994, c. 28; 1999, c. 256; 2005, c. 3.)