CODE OF VIRGINIA

MINE OPENINGS (§ 45.1-161.162)

A. Except as provided in § 45.1-161.164, there shall be at least two travel
ways, entries, or openings to the surface from each section of a mine worked.
All longwall panels shall be developed with at least three entries; however, if
new technology becomes available pursuant to which two-entry systems may be
safely developed, such technology may be used, with the approval of the Chief.

B. One of the required travel ways may be the haulage road.

C. The first opening shall not be made through an adjoining mine. The second
opening may be made through an adjoining mine.

D. One of the required travel ways shall be designated as the primary escapeway
and shall be in intake air.

E. After July 1, 1999, new surface structures where miners congregate or where
the mine map or other official records are kept at the mine shall be offset not
less than fifteen feet from the nearest side of any mine opening, or otherwise
located to be out of the direct line of possible forces coming out of the mine
should an explosion occur, unless otherwise approved by the Chief.

HISTORY: Code 1950, §§ 45-71, 45-71.1; 1954, c. 191; 1966, c. 594, §§
45.1-94, 45.1-95; 1984, c. 228; 1985, c. 395; 1990, c. 372; 1992, c. 360; 1994,
c. 28; 1996, c. 774; 1999, c. 256.