In case of any unplanned fire at a mine not extinguished within thirty minutes of discovery, the operator shall report to the Chief, by the quickest available means, all information known to him. The Chief, based on the information, shall promptly go in person or dispatch a mine inspector to the scene of the fire for consultation, and assist in the extinguishing of the fire and the protection of exposed persons. In the event of a difference of opinion as to measures required, the decision of the Chief or the mine inspector shall be final. The decision of the Chief regarding measures to extinguish the fire and protect persons shall have the force of an order issued pursuant to § 45.1-161.91 if delivered to the operator in writing.

History

Code 1950, § 45-14.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, § 45.1-89; 1974, c. 323; 1978, c. 118; 1984, c. 590; 1985, c. 500; 1994, c. 28; 1999, c. 256.