Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, no person shall act as fire boss in any coal mine in this state unless he is in possession of a certificate of competency. Anyone holding a mine foreman's certificate of competency may serve as fire boss. Whenever any exigency arises by which it is impossible for any operator, owner, or lessee to secure the immediate service of a certified mine foreman or fire boss, he may employ a person who has the same qualifications by experience, concurred in by the chief or mine inspector delegated by the chief, to act as temporary mine foreman or fire boss for a period not to exceed 15 days. The requirements for a temporary mine foreman or fire boss shall be no more severe than those contained in federal regulations.