Article 10. Personnel Hoisting
4VAC25-40-4070. Capacities of hoists.
Hoists shall have rated capacities consistent with the loads handled and the recommended safety factors of the ropes used.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.131, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4080. Anchoring hoists.
Hoists shall be anchored securely.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.132, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4090. Connecting driving mechanisms to personnel hoists.
Belts, ropes, or chains shall not be used to connect driving mechanisms to personnel hoists.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.133, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4100. Brakes on personnel hoists.
Any hoist used to hoist persons shall be equipped with a brake or brakes which shall be capable of holding its fully loaded cage, skip, or bucket at any point in the shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.134, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4110. Personnel hoist clutches.
The operating mechanism of the clutch of every personnel hoist drum shall be provided with a locking mechanism, or interlocked electrically or mechanically with the brake, to prevent accidental withdrawal of the clutch.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.135, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4120. Brakes on automatic hoists.
Automatic hoists shall be provided with devices that automatically apply the brakes in the event of power failure.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.136, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4130. Friction hoist overtravel protection.
In a friction hoist installation, tapered guides or other acceptable devices shall be installed above and below the limits of regular travel of the conveyance and arranged to prevent overtravel in the event of failure of other devices.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.137, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4140. Overtravel prevention on personnel hoists.
All personnel hoists shall be provided with devices to prevent overtravel. When utilized in shafts exceeding 100 feet in depth, such hoists shall also be provided with over-speed devices.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.138, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4150. Friction hoists.
Friction hoists shall be provided with synchronizing mechanisms that recalibrate the overtravel devices and position indicators to correct for rope creep or stretch.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.139, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4160. Overtravel bypass switches.
When an overtravel bypass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the switch is held in the closed position by the hoist person. The overtravel bypass switch shall return automatically to the open position when released by the hoist person.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.140, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4170. Emergency braking for electric hoists.
Each electric hoist shall be equipped with a manually operable switch that will initiate emergency braking action to bring the conveyance and the counterbalance safely to rest. This switch shall be located within reach of the hoist person in case the manual controls of the hoist fail.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.141, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4180. Position indicators.
An accurate and reliable indicator of the position of the cage skip, bucket, or cars in the shaft shall be provided.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.142, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4190. Placement of hoist controls.
Hoist controls shall be placed or housed so that the noise from machinery or other sources will not prevent hoist persons from hearing signals.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.143, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4200. Drum flanges.
Flanges on drums shall extend radially a minimum of two rope diameters and not less than four inches beyond the last wrap.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.144, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4210. Drum grooves.
Where grooved drums are used, the grooves shall be of the proper size and pitch for the ropes used.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.145, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4220. Engine-powered hoists.
Where any diesel or similar fuel injection engine is used to power a hoist, the engine shall be equipped with a damper or other cutoff in its air intake system. The control handle shall be clearly labeled to indicate that its intended function is for emergency stopping only.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.146, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4230. Standards for wire ropes.
The American National Standard for Wire Rope for Miners shall be used as a guide in the selection, installation, and maintenance of wire ropes used for hoisting, except in those instances where the recommendations cited herein are more stringent.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.147, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4240. Installation of wire ropes.
At installation, the nominal strength (manufacturer's published catalog strength) of wire ropes used for hoisting shall meet the minimum rope strength values obtained by the following formulas in which "L" equals the maximum suspended rope length in feet:
1. Winding drum ropes (all constructions, including rotation resistant):
For rope lengths less than 3,000 feet:
Minimum Value = Static Load X (7.0 - 0.001L)
For rope lengths 3,000 feet or greater:
Minimum Value = Static Load X 4.0
2. Friction drum ropes:
For rope lengths less than 4,000 feet:
Minimum Value = Static Load X (7.0 - 0.0005L)
For rope lengths 4,000 feet or greater:
Minimum Value = Static Load X 5.0
3. Tail ropes (balance ropes):
Minimum Value = Weight of Rope X 7.0
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.148, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 20, eff. July 8, 2009.
4VAC25-40-4250. Guide ropes.
If guide ropes are used in shafts for personnel hoisting applications other than shaft development, the nominal strength (manufacturer's published catalog strength) of the guide rope at installation shall meet the minimum value calculated as follows:
Minimum Value = Static Load X 5.0.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.149, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4260. Wire rope examination.
A. Wire rope attachments shall be replaced when cracked, deformed, or excessively worn.
B. At least once every 14 calendar days, each wire rope in service shall be visually examined along its entire active length for visible structural damage, corrosion, and improper lubrication or dressing. In addition, visual examination for wear and broken wires shall be made at stress points, including the area near attachments, where the rope rests on sheaves, where the rope leaves the drum, at drum crossovers, and at change of layer regions. When any visible condition that results in a reduction of rope strength is present, the affected portion of the rope shall be examined on a daily basis.
C. Before any person is hoisted with a newly installed wire rope or any wire rope that has not been examined in the previous 14 calendar days, the wire rope shall be examined in accordance with subsection B of this section.
D. At least once every six months, nondestructive tests shall be conducted of the active length of the rope, or rope diameter measurements shall be made:
1. Wherever wear is evident;
2. Where the hoist rope rests on sheaves at regular stopping points; and
3. Where the hoist rope leaves the drum at regular stopping points and at drum crossover and change of layer regions.
E. At the completion of each examination required by subsections B, C and D of this section, the person making the examination shall certify by signature and date that the examination has been made. If any condition listed in subsection B of this section is present, the person conducting the examination shall make a record of the condition and the date. Certifications and records of examinations shall be retained for one year.
F. The person making the measurements or nondestructive tests as required by subsection D of this section shall record the measurements or test results and the date. This record shall be retained until the rope is retired from service.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.150, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998; Volume 25, Issue 20, eff. July 8, 2009.
4VAC25-40-4270. Requirements for rope ends.
The end of the rope at the drum shall make at least one full turn on the drum shaft, or a spoke of the drum in the case of a free drum, and shall be fastened securely by means of rope clips or clamps. There shall be three full turns of cable or rope on the hoisting drum when the cable or rope is extended to its maximum working length. This standard does not apply to friction hoists.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.151, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4280. Load end attachment.
The rope shall be attached to the load by the thimble and clip method, the socketing method, or other approved method. If the socketing method is employed, zinc or its equivalent shall be used. The use of Babbitt metal or lead for socketing wire ropes is prohibited. If the thimble and clip method is used, the following shall be observed:
1. The rope shall be attached to the load by passing one end around an oval thimble that is attached to the load bending the end back so that it is parallel to the long or "live" end of the rope and fastening the two parts of the rope together with clips.
2. The u-bolt of each clip shall encircle the short or "dead" end of the rope and the distance between clips shall not be less than the figures given in the accompanying table.
3. As a minimum, the following number of clips or equivalent shall be used for various diameters of six-strand 19-wire plow steel ropes:
| Diameter of rope, inches | Number of clips | Center to center spacing of clips, inches |
| 3/4 | 4 | 4-1/2 |
| 7/8 | 4 | 5-1/4 |
| 1 | 4 | 6 |
| 1-1/8 | 5 | 6-3/4 |
| 1-1/4 | 5 | 7-1/2 |
| 1-3/8 | 6 | 8-1/4 |
| 1-1/2 | 6 | 9 |
| 1-5/8 | 6 | 9-3/4 |
| 1-3/4 | 7 | 10-1/2 |
| 1-7/8 | 8 | 11-1/4 |
| 2 | 8 | 12 |
| 2-1/8 | 8 | 13 |
| 2-1/4 | 8 | 14 |
Follow manufacturer's recommendations for other kinds of wire, rope and clips.
4. For all ropes less than 3/4 inch in diameter, at least four clips or equivalent shall be used.
5. When special conditions require the attachment of a sling to the hoisting cable to handle equipment in the shaft, the sling shall be attached by clips or equivalent in accordance with the table in subdivision 3 of this section.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.152, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4290. New ropes.
New ropes shall be broken in according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.153, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4300. Safety device attachments.
Safety device attachments to hoist ropes shall be selected, installed and maintained according to manufacturer's specifications to minimize internal corrosion and weakening of the hoist rope.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.154, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4310. Secondary safety connections.
Where possible, conveyances attached to single ropes used to hoist persons shall be provided with secondary safety connections.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.155, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4320. Headframes and sheaves.
Headframes and sheaves shall be designed and constructed to withstand pulls by the hoists greater than the breaking strengths of the hoist ropes.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.156, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4330. Clearance requirements.
Headframes shall be high enough to provide at least 15 feet of clearance between the bottom of the sheave or drum and the uppermost part of the highest rope connection of the conveyance when the conveyance is at its uppermost person-landing area.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.157, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4340. Fleet angles.
Fleet angles shall not exceed 1 ½°.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.158, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4350. Platforms.
Platforms with toe-boards and handrails shall be provided around elevated head sheaves.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.159, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4360. Diameter specifications.
Diameters of head sheaves and hoist drums shall conform to the following specifications:
| Rope construction | Diameter of sheave and drum | |
| Recommended Times rope diameter | Minimum Times rope diameter | |
| 6 x 7 classification | 72 | 42 |
| 6 x 19 | 45 | 30 |
| 6 x 37 | 20 | 18 |
| 6 x 25 type B, flattened strand | 45 | 30 |
| 6 x 27 type H, flattened strand | 45 | 30 |
| 6 x 30 type G, flattened strand | 45 | 30 |
| 18 x 7 classification | 51 | 34 |
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.160, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4370. Support grooves.
Head, idler, knuckle, and curve sheaves shall have grooves that support the ropes properly. Before installing new ropes, the grooves shall be inspected and, where necessary, machined to the proper contour and the proper groove diameter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.161, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4380. Metal bonnets.
Man cages and skips used for hoisting or lowering employees or other persons in any vertical shaft or any incline shaft with an angle of inclination of 45° from the horizontal, shall be covered with a metal bonnet.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.162, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4390. Use of buckets to hoist persons.
Buckets shall not be used to hoist persons except during shaft sinking operations, inspection, maintenance, and repairs.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.163, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4400. Specifications for buckets used to hoist persons.
Buckets used to hoist persons during shaft sinking operations shall be provided with adequate guide ropes and shall have crossheads equipped with safety catches and protective bonnets when the shaft depth exceeds 50 feet.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.164, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 20, eff. July 8, 2009.
4VAC25-40-4410. Ratings for ropes suspending platforms.
In shaft sinking where a platform is suspended by wire ropes, such ropes shall have an approved rating for the suspended load.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.165, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4420. Rope guides.
Where rope guides are used in shafts, they shall be of locked coil construction.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.166, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4430. Use of manually-operated hoists.
When a manually-operated hoist is used, a hoist person approved by the director shall remain within hearing of the telephone or signal device at all times while any person is underground.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.167, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4440. Use of automatic hoists.
When automatic hoisting is used, a hoist person approved by the director shall be in attendance on the premises while any person is underground.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.168, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4450. Fitness requirements for hoist persons.
Hoist persons shall be physically fit and shall undergo yearly examinations to determine their continued fitness; certification to this effect shall be available at the mine.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.169, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4460. Competency of hoist persons.
Only hoist persons approved by the director shall operate the hoist except in cases of emergency and in the training of new hoist persons.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.170, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4470. Use of extreme caution.
Hoist persons shall use extreme caution when hoisting or lowering persons.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.171, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4480. Speed for hoisting persons.
The safe speed for hoisting persons in a cage shall be determined for each shaft, and this speed shall not be exceeded. Persons shall not be hoisted at a speed faster than 2,500 feet per minute, except in an emergency.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.172, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4490. Maximum speeds.
Maximum acceleration and deceleration shall not exceed six feet per second.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.173, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4500. Authorized persons.
Only authorized persons shall be in hoist rooms.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.174, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4510. Balancing cages.
Balancing of cages shall not be done while persons are on cages.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.175, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4520. Lowering conveyances by brakes.
Conveyances shall not be lowered by the brakes alone except during emergencies.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.176, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4530. Maximum number of persons to ride.
The director shall designate the maximum number of persons permitted to ride on a trip at one time; this limit shall be posted on each landing.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.177, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4540. Persons in charge.
Authorized persons shall be in charge of all mantrips.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.178, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4550. Conduct on conveyances.
Persons shall enter, ride, and leave conveyances in an orderly manner.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.179, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4560. Moving conveyances.
Persons shall not enter or leave conveyances which are in motion or after a signal to move the conveyance has been given to the hoist person.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.180, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4570. Doors to be closed.
Cage doors or gates shall be closed while persons are being hoisted; they shall not be opened until the cage has come to a stop.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.181, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4580. Riding in loaded buckets.
Persons shall not ride in skips, or buckets with muck, supplies, materials, or tools other than small hand tools.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.182, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4590. When skips shall be empty.
When combinations of cages and skips are used, the skips shall be empty while persons are being transported.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.183, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4600. Hoisting rock or supplies.
Rock or supplies shall not be hoisted in the same shaft as persons during shift changes, unless the compartments and dumping bins are partitioned to prevent spillage into the cage compartment.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.184, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4610. Limitations on riding shaft conveyance.
Persons shall not ride the bail, rim, or bonnet of any shaft conveyance, except where necessary for the inspection and maintenance of the shaft and lining.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.185, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4620. Open hooks.
Open hooks shall not be used to hoist buckets or other conveyances.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.186, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4630. Speeds for open buckets.
When persons are hoisted in an open bucket, speeds shall not exceed 500 feet a minute and shall not exceed 200 feet a minute when within 100 feet of a landing.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.187, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4640. Where buckets to be stopped on lowering.
Buckets shall be stopped about 15 feet from the shaft bottom to await a signal from one of the crew on the bottom for further lowering.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.188, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4650. Where buckets to be stopped on raising.
Buckets shall be stopped after being raised three feet when persons are hoisted from the bottom; a second hoisting signal shall be given after the bucket has been stabilized. Hoisting shall be at a minimum speed and the bell cord shall be attended constantly until the crosshead has been engaged.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.189, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4660. Blocking cars.
Where mine cars are hoisted by cage or skip, means for blocking cars shall be provided at all landings and also on the cage.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.190, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4670. Securing materials in buckets.
When tools, timbers, or other materials are being lowered or raised in a shaft by means of a bucket, skip, or cage, they shall be secured or so placed that they will not strike the sides of the shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.191, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4680. Placement of conveyances not in use.
Conveyances not in use shall be released and raised or lowered at least 10 feet from the floor of the landing.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.192, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4690. Signaling between stations and hoist room.
There shall be at least two effective approved methods of signaling between each of the shaft stations and the hoist room, one of which shall be a telephone or speaking tube.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.193, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4700. When telephone instructions are acceptable.
Hoist persons shall not accept hoisting instructions by telephone unless the regular signaling systems are out of order. During such an emergency, one person shall be designated to direct movement of the conveyance.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.194, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4710. Signals to hoist operator.
A method shall be provided to signal the hoist operator from cages or other conveyances at any point in the shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.195, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4720. Standard hoisting signals.
A standard code of hoisting signals shall be adopted and used each mine.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.196, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4730. Posting of signal codes.
A legible signal code shall be posted prominently in the hoist house within easy view of the hoist persons and at each place where signals are given or received.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.197, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4740. Positioning signal devices.
Hoisting signal devices shall be positioned within easy reach of persons on the shaft bottom or constantly attended by a person stationed on the lower deck of the sinking platform.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.198, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4750. Qualifications of persons giving signals.
Any person responsible for receiving or giving signals for cages, skips, and mantrips when persons or materials are being transported shall be familiar with the posted signaling code.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.199, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4760. Safety gates on landings.
Shaft landings shall be equipped with substantial safety gates so constructed that materials will not go through or under them; gates shall be closed except when loading or unloading shaft conveyances.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.200, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4770. Stop blocks or derail switches.
Positive stop blocks or a derail switch shall be installed on all tracks leading to a shaft collar or landing.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.201, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4780. Where guides to be provided.
Guides shall be provided in each hoisting compartment in shafts inclined more than 45° from the horizontal.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.202, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4790. Construction of dumping facilities.
Dumping facilities and loading pockets shall be constructed so as to minimize spillage into the shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.203, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4800. Shaft station clearance requirements.
Adequate clearance shall be maintained at shaft stations to allow persons to pass safely and to allow materials to be handled safely.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.204, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4810. Safe passage around compartments.
A safe means of passage around open shaft compartments shall provided on landings with more than one entrance to the shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.205, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4820. Maintaining shaft sets.
Shaft sets shall be kept in good repair and clean of hazardous material.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.206, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4830. Persons working in shafts.
Hoist personnel shall be informed when persons are working in a compartment affected by that hoisting operation and a "Persons Working in Shaft" sign shall be posted at the hoist.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.207, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4840. Posting of signs.
When persons are working in a shaft, "Persons Working in Shaft" signs shall be posted at all devices controlling hoisting operations that may endanger such persons.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.208, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4850. Performing inspections and repairs.
Shaft inspection and repair work in vertical shafts shall be performed from substantial platforms equipped with bonnets or equivalent overhead protection.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.209, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4860. Bulkheads or equivalent protection.
A substantial bulkhead or equivalent protection shall be provided above persons at work deepening a shaft.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.210, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4870. Ladders in shafts.
Substantial fixed ladders shall be maintained as near the shaft bottom as practical during shaft sinking operations. Chain, wire rope, or other extension ladders shall be used from the fixed ladder to the shaft bottom, unless other suitable means are approved.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.211, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4880. Inspection and testing procedures.
A systematic procedure of inspection, testing, and maintenance of shaft and hoisting equipment shall be developed and followed. If it is found or suspected that any part is not functioning properly, the hoist shall not be used until the malfunction has been located and repaired or adjustments have been made.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.212, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4890. Records to be kept.
Complete records shall be kept of installation, lubrication, inspection, tests, and maintenance of shafts and hoisting equipment.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.213, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4900. Replacement parts.
Parts used to repair hoists shall have properties equal to or better than the original parts; replacement parts shall be designed to fit the original installation.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.214, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4910. Lubrication of ropes.
Ropes shall be kept well-lubricated from end to end as recommended by the manufacturer.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.215, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4920. Cutting of ropes for inspections.
On other than friction hoists, ropes shall be cut off and reconnected to the conveyance as often as necessary to ensure adequate inspection of rope condition and to distribute wear of the rope. At least six feet shall be cut from the rope above the highest connection; this portion shall be examined carefully for corrosion, damage, wear, and fatigue by the rope manufacturer or an acceptable agency.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.216, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4930. Cutting of ropes to distribute wear.
Hoisting ropes wound in multiple layers shall be cut off and repositioned on the drum at regular intervals as necessary to distribute wear of the rope. The length of cutoff at the drum end should not be an even multiple of the circumference of the drum.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.217, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4940. Ropes to be calipered.
Ropes shall be calipered at regular interval as necessary to effectively determine the rate of wear and damage. Caliper measurements shall be taken immediately above the socket or clips and above the safety connection.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.218, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4950. Electromagnetic or other nondestructive testing.
Electromagnetic or other nondestructive rope testing systems shall be used only as supplements to, and not as substitutes for, recommended inspection and tests.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.219, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4960. Substandard ropes.
Ropes shall not be used for hoisting when they have:
1. More than six broken wires in any lay; and
2. Crown wires worn to less than 65% of the original diameter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.220, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-4970. Testing on each shift.
Hoist persons shall examine their hoists and shall test overtravel, dead man controls, position indicators, and braking mechanisms at the beginning of each shift.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.221, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4980. Testing with empty conveyances.
Empty conveyances shall be operated up and down shafts at least one round trip before hoisting persons after any shaft or equipment repairs and before regular mantrips are hoisted or lowered.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3, 45.1-161.294 and 45.1-161.305 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.222, eff. July 19, 1989; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.
4VAC25-40-4990. Inspection of ropes and connections.
Rope and conveyance connections to conveyances shall be inspected daily.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.223, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-5000. Inspection of safety catches.
Safety catches shall be inspected daily; drop tests shall be made at the time of installation. Every two months the cage shall be rested on chairs or proper blocking to check the operation or activation of the safety catches by allowing the rope to slacken suddenly.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.224, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-5010. Inspection of shafts.
Shafts shall be inspected at least weekly.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.225, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-5020. Inspection of sheaves.
Sheaves shall be inspected daily and kept properly lubricated.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.226, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-5030. Lubrication of rollers.
Rollers used in inclined shafts shall be lubricated properly and kept in good repair.
Statutory Authority
§§ 45.1-161.3 and 45.1-161.294 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 § 15.227, eff. July 19, 1989.
4VAC25-40-5040. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from VR480-05-1.2 §§ 15.228, 15.229, eff. July 19, 1989; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1998.